A century ago, the United States made its final territorial acquisition with the purchase of the U.S. Virgin Islands. Located at the southernmost stretch of the Caribbean, the Virgin Islands are a group of three main islands — Saint Croix, Saint John, and Saint Thomas, and a cluster of 50 minor cays and islands. The day is celebrated throughout the Virgin Islands with great vigor. Parades are held at the state halls, and the American Flag is hoisted during the evening ceremony.
Cesar Chavez Day
Cesar Chavez Day on March 31 is a federal commemorative holiday, celebrated to honor the enduring legacy of the American labor rights hero. The day was initiated by former President Barack Obama in 2014. Born to migrant laborers, Chavez’s early life experiences shaped his leftist ideology and made him the face of the 1960s labor movement. Through his persistent efforts and non-violent protests, he became America’s lightning rod. On March 31, union members and community leaders come together to celebrate the life of this American icon and take inspiration from his four decades of selfless service to the workers of the United States.
Dante Day
Dante Day, or Dantedi as the Italians call it, celebrates the life and works of the incredible Italian writer, Dante Alighieri, on March 25. Alighieri is most famous for his masterpiece, “The Divine Comedy,” which chronicled his journey to Hell, Purgatory, and Paradise.
Alighieri is a great symbol of Italian genius. In fact, his work helped to create and promote the Italian language. On National Dante Day, hundreds of readings and exhibitions are held all over Italy to honor the man who wrote perhaps the greatest literary work in the Italian language.
If you’re a lover of great literature, divinity, or Italy, you simply have to join Italy in celebrating the man they refer to as ‘il Sommo Poeta,’ which means ‘the Supreme Poet.’