As a proper noun, Patriots' Day refers to a state holiday observed on the third Monday of April in Massachusetts, Maine, and Wisconsin. The event commemorates the anniversary of the Battles of Lexington and Concord, the initial armed conflicts of the American Revolutionary War, which took place on April 19, 1775.
The observance is marked by various civic events and historical reenactments, most notably the recreation of the skirmish on Lexington Green and the events surrounding Paul Revere's ride. A significant contemporary component of the day, particularly in Massachusetts, is the running of the Boston Marathon. This internationally recognized athletic competition has been held on this date since 1897, creating a modern tradition tied to the historical commemoration.
The holiday functions as a regional celebration of the origins of American independence and the spirit of civic duty. It provides a direct link for communities to the foundational events of the nation, merging solemn historical remembrance with contemporary cultural and athletic activities that reinforce a sense of local and national identity.
