A holiday is a day set aside by custom or by law on which normal activities, especially business or work including school, are suspended or reduced.
Generally, holidays are intended to allow individuals to celebrate or commemorate an event or tradition of cultural or religious significance.
Holidays may be designated by governments, religious institutions, or other groups or organizations. The degree to which normal activities are reduced by a holiday may depend on local laws, customs, the type of job held or personal choices.
Everyday conversations: Holiday season in the U.S.
Everyday conversations: Thanksgiving in the U.S.