Category: Holiday

Each year on November 11, we pause to honor the men and women who have served in the United States Armed Forces. Veterans Day is a time to recognize the sacrifices, commitment, and resilience of those who have defended our freedoms—whether they served during times of peace or conflict.

While Memorial Day focuses on remembering those who gave their lives in service, Veterans Day celebrates all who have worn the uniform. It’s an opportunity to express gratitude to our colleagues, friends, family members, and neighbors who have dedicated a portion of their lives to military service.

A Brief History

• 1919 – Originally known as Armistice Day, it marked the end of World War I.
• 1954 – The name was changed to Veterans Day to honor all U.S. military veterans.
• Today – The holiday is recognized across the nation with parades, ceremonies, and moments of reflection.

Why It Matters in the Workplace

Veterans bring unique strengths to our organizations: discipline, adaptability, teamwork, leadership, and a strong sense of mission. By recognizing their contributions, we foster a culture of respect and inclusion that benefits everyone.

Ways to Honor Veterans at Work

• Host a Recognition Event – Invite veterans to share their stories or experiences.
• Offer Time Off for Local Events – Encourage participation in parades or commemorations.
• Highlight Service in Internal Communications – Share employee spotlights or veteran-owned partner stories.
• Support Veteran Organizations – Organize a volunteer day or donation drive.
• Create a Year-Round Commitment – Include veterans in DEI initiatives and career development programs.

A Note of Gratitude

On this Veterans Day, let’s take a moment to look around our workplaces and communities, recognize those who have served, and simply say, Thank you. Their contributions—both in uniform and as part of our organizations—help shape a stronger, more resilient future.

Every year on November 1 and 2, many people across Mexico, Latin America, and the United States celebrate Día de los Muertos—the Day of the Dead. Far from being a somber occasion, this centuries-old tradition is a vibrant, joyful time to honor the lives of loved ones who have passed away, celebrate their memory, and embrace the idea that they are still part of our lives.

A Living Tradition

Rooted in both Indigenous Aztec rituals and Catholic All Saints’ and All Souls’ Days, Día de los Muertos blends cultural and spiritual traditions. Families create ofrendas (altars) decorated with marigolds, candles, photographs, and favorite foods of the departed. These displays aren’t about mourning—they’re about welcoming spirits back for a visit, sharing stories, and celebrating the joy they brought to our lives.

Symbols That Tell Stories

You’ve probably seen the colorful calaveras (sugar skulls), papel picado (intricately cut paper banners), and paths of bright orange cempasúchil (marigold flowers). Each element carries meaning:

• Marigolds are thought to guide spirits home with their vibrant color and scent.
• Sugar skulls symbolize the sweetness of life.
• Papel picado represents the fragility of life, swaying in the breeze.

Celebrating in the Workplace

While Día de los Muertos is deeply personal, organizations can respectfully acknowledge it in ways that honor its cultural significance:

• Create a Memory Wall or Table – Invite employees to bring in photos or write notes about loved ones (pets included!).
• Share Stories – Host a lunchtime gathering for storytelling, music, and learning about the tradition.
• Incorporate Art and Color – Display papel picado or marigold arrangements in common areas.
• Learn Together – Share articles, videos, or a short presentation on the history and meaning behind the holiday.

Why It Matters at Work

Acknowledging holidays like Día de los Muertos builds cultural awareness, strengthens relationships, and reminds us that people bring their whole selves to work—including their history, heritage, and heart. Celebrating together can be a moment of connection that lasts beyond the holiday itself.

In the end, Día de los Muertos isn’t about death—it’s about the beauty and continuity of life, the importance of family and community, and the joy of remembering. And those are values worth honoring every day.

Halloween in the workplace is a rare kind of magic — the one day you can show up as a vampire, a cat, or an Excel spreadsheet and no one questions your judgment.

It’s a day for candy bowls at reception, themed potlucks, and wondering if that really tall witch in the break room is from Accounting… or Procurement.

Pro Tips for a Frightfully Fun (and Safe) Workplace Halloween:

• Keep it work-friendly. If your costume wouldn’t pass the “casual Friday” test, it probably doesn’t belong at the office.
• Mind the masks. Save the full-face coverage for after hours — HR likes to know who they’re talking to.
• Treat responsibly. Candy is wonderful… until someone eats their weight in gummy worms before a client meeting.
• Respect the “no.” Not everyone loves Halloween — and that’s okay. Opt-in festivities only.

HR’s Haunted Ode to Halloween🕸

By: The Ghost of Policies Past

In the cubicles by moonlight, a whisper drifts through air,
It’s HR’s gentle warning — beware the Costume Scare.

If your cloak drags down the hallway, or your hat blocks out the light,
Remember safety standards — we still have work tonight.

Your vampire cape is dashing, your fangs are truly great,
But skip the “blood” in conference rooms — Facilities can’t relate.

That skeleton in Payroll? He’s not just part of the show,
He’s still chasing last month’s timesheets — and you’re three days slow.

The candy bowls are brimming, with chocolates, chews, and more,
And Carol from Compliance guards the pumpkin by the door.

There’s laughter in Accounting, IT is dressed like the moon,
And Finance turned the copier into a haunted tomb.

If your mask makes folks guess who you are for half the day,
Consider swapping at lunchtime — HR likes to see your face (okay?).

If you’re brewing “mystery punch” in the breakroom’s bubbling pot,
Please label all ingredients — yes, even eye of newt counts a lot.

We love a bit of mischief, a prank or two is fine,
Just don’t replace the creamer with cobwebs or fake slime.

Remember, ghosts are welcome, as are mummies, bats, and bees,
Just leave the controversial costumes where no one else can see.

So, snack, and laugh, and mingle, and carve a gourd or two,
HR’s just here to make sure… no zombies HR you.

Closing Thought:

Halloween is about creativity, community, and maybe a little sugar-fueled chaos — and the best offices find ways to enjoy it while keeping the spooky spirit in balance with good sense.

Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most widely celebrated festivals in India and among communities around the world. This year, Diwali falls on Tuesday, October 21, marking a time for joy, renewal, and togetherness.

A Bright History and Meaning

Diwali has roots in Hindu, Sikh, Jain, and Buddhist traditions, with each community adding its own cultural and spiritual significance. Common themes across celebrations include:

• The triumph of light over darkness and good over evil.
• The start of a new year in some Indian calendars.
• Family and community gatherings, feasts, and sharing gifts.
• Lighting diyas (oil lamps) and fireworks to symbolize hope and positivity.

It’s a holiday rich with color, light, and meaning—an opportunity to honor tradition while embracing the joy of fresh beginnings.

Fun Facts about Diwali

• Length of celebration: Traditionally, Diwali is a five-day festival, with each day having its own significance.
• Decorations: Homes and workplaces are often adorned with rangoli—intricate floor art made from colored powders, rice, or flowers.
• Sweets galore: Festivities often include mithai (Indian sweets) like laddus, jalebi, and barfi.
• Global reach: From New York to Nairobi, cities across the world light up with Diwali events, markets, and performances.

Workplace Ways to Celebrate and Acknowledge Diwali

For organizations, Diwali offers a chance to celebrate diversity and show support for employees who observe this holiday. Here are some ideas:

1. Create a Festive Atmosphere – Decorate common spaces with string lights, marigold flowers, and rangoli art. A warm, colorful environment is a visual acknowledgment that the holiday is valued.

2. Host a Cultural Lunch or Potluck – Encourage employees to share traditional Diwali dishes (or order from a local Indian restaurant). Include a short explanation of each dish to make it a learning experience.

3. Share Stories and Traditions – Offer a space—virtual or in person—for employees to share what Diwali means to them. This can be part of a staff meeting or a special cultural spotlight session.

4. Be Mindful with Scheduling – If possible, avoid scheduling major meetings or deadlines on October 2 or during the five-day festival. Consider flexible scheduling for employees celebrating with family.

5. Support Community Celebrations – Sponsor or promote local Diwali events. This not only shows cultural awareness but also connects your organization with the community.

The Spark that Lasts Beyond the Festival

Diwali is more than lights and sweets—it’s a reminder to bring optimism, kindness, and collaboration into our daily work. By recognizing it in the workplace, you help create an environment where everyone feels seen and celebrated.

So, on October 21, let’s welcome the sparkle, share the sweets, and keep the spirit of Diwali alive all year long.

Observed on Monday, October 13, 2025, Columbus Day has a complex history that reflects both the spirit of exploration and the evolving conversations about how we remember our past. Traditionally, the day commemorates Christopher Columbus’ 1492 arrival in the Americas, marking a pivotal moment in world history. In recent years, the holiday has also become a time for broader reflection—some communities have embraced Indigenous Peoples’ Day to honor the history, culture, and resilience of Native peoples.

Whether your organization officially observes Columbus Day, Indigenous Peoples’ Day, or both, the day provides an opportunity to reflect on the interconnectedness of cultures, the spirit of discovery, and the ways history continues to shape our workplaces and communities.

 Fun Facts About Columbus Day

• First National Observance – President Franklin D. Roosevelt made Columbus Day a federal holiday in 1937.
• Changing Perspectives – Many states and cities now recognize Indigenous Peoples’ Day, shifting the focus toward celebrating Native cultures and contributions.
• Parades & Traditions – Some cities, especially with strong Italian-American heritage, still host parades and festivals, blending cultural pride with historical commemoration.

 How to Acknowledge the Day at Work

Even if your organization doesn’t close for the holiday, you can still acknowledge the date in ways that are thoughtful, inclusive, and engaging:

1. Highlight Cultural Contributions
   • Share a short spotlight on Indigenous innovators, leaders, or artists who have shaped your community or industry.
   • Recognize the influence of Italian-American heritage in art, science, and business.
2. Encourage Curiosity and Learning
   • Organize a lunchtime “History & Heritage” discussion or virtual learning session exploring both Columbus’ voyages and the Indigenous history of your region.
   • Provide links to local museum exhibits or online resources.
3. Connect Through Food & Storytelling
   • Host a potluck or catered lunch featuring dishes inspired by different cultures connected to the holiday.
   • Invite employees to share stories about their family’s migration, traditions, or cultural heritage.
4. Support Community Engagement
   • Promote local events, parades, or volunteer opportunities that align with the day’s themes of cultural recognition and understanding.

 Why It Matters for the Workplace

Holidays like Columbus Day are reminders that history is not static—it’s interpreted, retold, and reexamined through modern lenses. By encouraging learning, respectful dialogue, and celebration of diverse cultures, workplaces can transform a day on the calendar into a meaningful opportunity for connection and growth.

Whether your focus is on honoring exploration, Indigenous heritage, or both, the goal is the same: building a workplace that values history, embraces diversity, and fosters curiosity.

Yom Kippur—known as the Day of Atonement—is one of the most sacred days in the Jewish calendar. In 2025, it begins at sundown on Sunday, October 5, and ends at nightfall on Monday, October 6. For many Jewish people, this 25-hour period is dedicated to fasting, prayer, and deep reflection. It’s a solemn and profoundly meaningful holiday, centered on making amends, seeking forgiveness, and setting intentions for the year ahead.

The Heart of Yom Kippur

Yom Kippur follows Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, and concludes the “Ten Days of Awe,” a period of introspection and repentance. Observance often includes:

• Fasting from food and drink for the full 25 hours (unless health conditions require otherwise)
• Attending synagogue services that include special prayers and rituals, such as the Kol Nidre and the Neilah service
• Reflecting and making amends—repairing relationships and focusing on spiritual renewal

The day’s message is universal: acknowledging where we’ve fallen short, taking responsibility, and making changes that better align our actions with our values.

Supporting Yom Kippur Observance in the Workplace

Even if your organization doesn’t officially close for Yom Kippur, there are respectful ways to recognize and support employees who observe:

• Offer Flexibility – Allow time off without unnecessary hurdles. Many employees may request to leave early before sundown or take the day off entirely.
• Be Mindful of Scheduling – Avoid scheduling key meetings, deadlines, or events during Yom Kippur.
• Understand the Impact of Fasting – Those fasting may have lower physical energy or prefer to avoid food-centered gatherings during this period.
• Respect the Day’s Focus – Yom Kippur is a solemn time. A simple “Have an easy fast” or “G’mar Chatima Tova” (“May you be sealed in the Book of Life”) can be a thoughtful acknowledgment.

Bringing the Spirit of Yom Kippur to Organizational Culture

While Yom Kippur is a religious observance, its themes—reflection, responsibility, and renewal—offer valuable lessons for any workplace:

• Reflect – Regularly assess policies, practices, and team dynamics to ensure they align with your organization’s mission and values.
• Repair – Address conflicts directly, offer timely feedback, and rebuild trust where it’s been strained.
• Renew – Start fresh with clearer goals, stronger collaboration, and a shared commitment to improvement.

Final Thought

Acknowledging Yom Kippur in the workplace is about more than honoring a holiday—it’s about respecting the diverse traditions that shape our colleagues’ lives and finding ways to make our workplaces more inclusive.

When we give space for observance and reflection, we strengthen not just our relationships with individuals, but the health and resilience of the organization as a whole.

Rosh Hashanah in the Workplace

Starts at sundown Friday, September 26 – Ends Sunday, September 28

Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, is a time of reflection, hope, and fresh beginnings. It marks the start of the High Holy Days and offers an opportunity for all of us—regardless of background—to pause, look back on the year behind us, and look ahead with intention.

The holiday begins at sundown on Friday, September 26, and concludes at nightfall on Sunday, September 28. In Jewish tradition, days start in the evening, which means those observing may need to leave work early on Friday to prepare for family gatherings or religious services.

Rosh Hashanah is both solemn and joyful—an invitation to consider how we’ve shown up in the world and how we can make the year ahead even better.

Common traditions include:

• Blowing of the Shofar – A ram’s horn sounded during synagogue services to inspire reflection and renewal.
• Eating Apples and Honey – A wish for a sweet year ahead.
• Round Challah Bread – Symbolizing the cycle of life and the continuity of the year.
• Tashlich – A symbolic “casting away” of past mistakes by tossing crumbs or small pebbles into flowing water.

These customs remind us that starting fresh is always possible and that small, intentional actions can shape an entire year.

Bringing Rosh Hashanah Spirit to the Workplace

While religious observance is personal, organizations can acknowledge Rosh Hashanah in ways that foster inclusion and community spirit.

Here are a few ideas:

• Share a warm greeting: “Shanah Tovah” (sha-NAH toe-VAH) means “a good year.”
• Be mindful of scheduling: Avoid late-afternoon meetings on Friday and be flexible with deadlines.
• Offer a sweet gesture: Provide apples and honey in the breakroom with a small note about the tradition.
• Create a reflection moment: Invite employees to share one work habit they want to start, stop, or strengthen in the year ahead—participation always optional.

Recognizing holidays like Rosh Hashanah is more than a calendar note—it’s a way to show respect, build trust, and create a workplace culture where everyone feels valued. For Jewish employees, acknowledgment can make the difference between feeling invisible and feeling truly seen. For others, it’s a chance to learn about a tradition that carries universal themes of growth and renewal.

 As the shofar sounds and apples meet honey, we are reminded that the sweetness of the year ahead comes from the connections we build, the respect we show, and the intentions we set. To all who celebrate—Shanah Tovah! May the coming year bring health, purpose, and joy.

Celebrating Work, Rest, and the People Who Make It All Happen

Labor Day is more than just the unofficial end of summer, a good excuse for a barbecue, or the perfect day for that final beach trip before school starts. It’s a national holiday dedicated to recognizing and honoring the contributions of workers and the labor movement in shaping the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country.

A Little History

Labor Day became a federal holiday in 1894, born from the labor movement’s efforts to improve working conditions, establish fair wages, and secure reasonable hours. The holiday serves as a tribute to the American worker and a reminder of the progress made toward safer workplaces and more equitable treatment—progress that continues to evolve today.

Cultural Meaning

Labor Day has grown into a day to reflect on the value of work, the dignity it brings, and the importance of balance between our professional and personal lives. It’s about more than paychecks—it’s about people, teamwork, and the skills that keep organizations thriving. Whether you’re in an office, a classroom, a factory, or out in the field, your work matters, and this day is for you.

Ideas for Workplace Acknowledgment

• Say Thank You—Out Loud and In Writing
  A short, heartfelt message from leadership recognizing the team’s dedication can go a long way.
• Encourage Real Rest
  Remind staff to truly take the day off—no emails, no “quick check-ins.” Make it a real break from work.
• Celebrate the Week Before
  If your workplace is closed on Labor Day, host a “Work Wins” appreciation event the week prior—share successes, hand out fun awards, and enjoy a treat together.
• Highlight Your People
  Use internal newsletters or social media to share employee spotlights and stories of how their work impacts your organization’s mission.
• Support Community Events
  Organize or sponsor a volunteer activity, parade, or local fair to connect your organization with the community it serves.

The Takeaway

Labor Day is a pause button—a moment to appreciate the people who keep things running and to recognize the value of both hard work and time away from it. It’s a reminder that thriving organizations are built on the efforts of their people, and those people deserve more than a long weekend—they deserve gratitude, respect, and the space to recharge.

Enjoy the day. You’ve earned it.

Let’s be honest—when you think of the 4th of July, your first thought probably isn’t workplace celebration. It’s probably something more along the lines of “Is there enough ice for the cooler?” or “Did we get the good fireworks this year?” or even “Who volunteered me to make potato salad?”

And that’s fair.

But the 4th of July, officially known as Independence Day, is more than just backyard BBQs and neighborhood parades. It’s a reminder that bold ideas (like breaking up with a king via letter) can shape entire countries—and yes, even spark a little fun around the office before everyone heads out for a long weekend.

So, before you clock out early or light up the grill, here’s a quick read to honor the day with some quirky facts, cultural meaning, and ideas for bringing a little red, white, and blue into the workplace without burning down the break room.

Independence Day in 87 Seconds or Less
July 4 marks the adoption of the Declaration of Independence in 1776—basically the U.S.’s formal “It’s not you, it’s tyranny” breakup with Great Britain. It was bold, it was risky, and it launched a nation. And while not everyone got their freedom right away (and many are still fighting for equity today), the holiday is a marker of a promise—a messy, evolving, and determined one—that all people are created equal and deserve a voice.

Fun Facts to Casually Drop at the Office BBQ

• It wasn’t always a party. July 4 became an unpaid holiday in 1870 and didn’t become a paid federal holiday until 1938. We’re late bloomers, apparently.
• Presidential coincidences are real. Thomas Jefferson and John Adams both died on July 4, 1826. James Monroe joined the July 4th club in 1831.
• You’re not imagining the hot dog overload. Americans eat about 150 million hot dogs on the 4th. If you’re wondering, that’s enough to stretch from D.C. to L.A. more than five times. Gross and impressive.
• Fireworks are older than the U.S. The first 4th of July celebration featured fireworks in 1777—because nothing says independence like lighting things on fire in the sky.

Workplace Ways to Celebrate (Without Starting a Fire)

• Red, White & Woohoo Day – Let your team wear their most festive patriotic outfits—bonus points for stripes, stars, and borderline costume-level commitment.
• History, But Make It Fun – Post a “Did you know?” board with quirky July 4 trivia. Or better yet, create a Slack channel where folks can share their favorite weird U.S. facts or family 4th traditions.
• Star-Spangled Snack Break – Organize a quick mid-day treat fest: red and blue berries, white cheddar popcorn, flag-themed cookies…and maybe a very clear sign next to the deviled eggs that says refrigerate immediately.
• Freedom to Log Off Early – If you can swing it, nothing says “we value you” like a surprise early dismissal before a holiday weekend. Freedom and time off go hand in hand.
• Playlist of the People – Let each team member submit one song for a collaborative July 4 playlist—play it in the breakroom or share it with your remote folks.

A Little Gratitude to Go With the Grub
Independence Day reminds us that progress takes time and courage, that democracy is always in motion, and that no great revolution starts without a little teamwork. In that spirit, it’s a great time to say thanks—to our colleagues, clients, and coworkers who keep showing up, bringing their full selves, and building better workplaces together.

So, raise a sparkler (metaphorically, please) to your crew and enjoy the heck out of your holiday. Whether you’re watching fireworks, sipping something icy, or just enjoying a well-earned nap—we wish you a safe and joyful Independence Day.

Need help lighting a spark in your workplace culture (figuratively)? HR Answers is here with expert advice, good humor, and no open flames.

June 19th, widely known as Juneteenth, commemorates the day in 1865 when the final group of enslaved Americans in Galveston, Texas, learned of their freedom—more than two years after the Emancipation Proclamation had been issued. This day serves as a powerful reminder of our nation’s journey toward freedom and the ongoing work to create a society that values and includes all people. Officially recognized as a federal holiday in 2021, Juneteenth has become a time to reflect on our shared history, celebrate progress, and strengthen our collective future.

The History of Juneteenth
On June 19, 1865, Union General Gordon Granger arrived in Galveston, Texas, and announced General Order No. 3, ensuring that the promise of emancipation was fulfilled for all. This marked a turning point in the nation’s history, reinforcing the ideals of freedom and justice. Over the years, Juneteenth has evolved into a celebration of unity, cultural heritage, and national progress.

Cultural Significance and Traditions
Juneteenth is a time to honor our shared history and embrace the ideals of inclusion and unity. Traditional observances include:

• Community Gatherings: Events featuring music, dance, and storytelling that highlight the strength and resilience of the human spirit.
• Reflection and Education: Opportunities to learn about history and celebrate achievements in the ongoing journey toward equality.
• Food and Fellowship: Celebrations that bring people together, reinforcing the bonds that unite us all.
• Acts of Service: Volunteering and community involvement that support progress and opportunity for all individuals.

How Workplaces Can Honor and Celebrate Juneteenth
Recognizing Juneteenth in the workplace fosters a culture of inclusion, appreciation, and progress. Here are meaningful ways to celebrate:

1. Educate and Engage

• Host a lunch-and-learn session on the history and significance of Juneteenth.
• Share educational resources about how far we’ve come and the steps needed to ensure continued progress.
• Invite a guest speaker to discuss the broader impact of unity and inclusivity.

2. Encourage Meaningful Dialogue

• Organize a panel discussion or open forum about the progress made in ensuring equal opportunities for all.
• Create a space for open conversations about unity, inclusion, and workplace collaboration.

3. Support Diverse Communities

• Partner with local businesses and organizations that reflect a commitment to inclusive economic growth.
• Encourage employees to support and engage with businesses that uplift all communities.

4. Recognize the Holiday with Time Off or Flexibility

• Offer Juneteenth as a paid holiday or provide flexible scheduling to encourage participation in celebrations.

5. Commit to Ongoing Progress

• Strengthen diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives that benefit all employees.
• Foster mentorship programs that promote equal opportunities and professional growth.
• Integrate inclusivity into everyday workplace culture beyond Juneteenth.

Looking Ahead: Progress Continues
Juneteenth is a celebration of the progress we’ve made and a reminder that there is always more work to be done. As we commemorate this day, we must continue striving for a society where opportunity, respect, and unity are shared by all. The journey toward true equality is ongoing, and each of us has a role to play in building a future where every individual is valued and empowered.