National Constitution Day

Celebrate the foundation of American democracy on National Constitution Day! Commemorating the signing of the US Constitution on September 17, 1787, this day honors the document that established our government and protects our rights. Learn about constitutional principles and civic responsibility.

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National Constitution Day - Celebrate the foundation of American democracy on National Constitution Day! Commemorating the signing of the US Constitution on September 17, 1787, this day honors the document that established our government and protects our rights. Learn about constitutional principles and civic responsibility.

About National Constitution Day

History & origins

National Constitution Day in the United States traces to September 17, 1787, when the U.S. Constitution was signed in Philadelphia. The modern observance is formally known as Constitution Day and Citizenship Day; Congress designated September 17 for it in 1952, and later asked the President to proclaim Constitution Week as well. It is closely tied to civic education and remembrance of the nation’s founding document.

Why it matters

National Constitution Day matters because the Constitution still shapes how the U.S. government works and how individual rights are protected. The day also supports civic literacy by encouraging people to learn the Constitution, the Bill of Rights, and the responsibilities of citizenship.

How to celebrate

Read the Constitution and Bill of Rights. Visit historical sites like Independence Hall. Participate in citizenship ceremonies. Attend educational programs about constitutional rights. Discuss civic duties with family. Share constitutional knowledge on social media.

Facts

The Constitution has only 27 amendments in over 230 years
It's the oldest written national constitution still in use
The Constitution was written in just 100 working days
The original document is four pages long
All federal employees and military personnel must take an oath to uphold it

Upcoming dates

Thursday, September 17, 2026
Friday, September 17, 2027
Sunday, September 17, 2028
Monday, September 17, 2029
Tuesday, September 17, 2030

Frequently asked questions

When is National Constitution Day in 2026?

National Constitution Day is on September 17, 2026. In the United States, that date marks the signing of the Constitution in 1787.

What is National Constitution Day?

National Constitution Day is a civic observance that honors the signing of the U.S. Constitution. It is commonly paired with Citizenship Day to emphasize constitutional principles and the duties of citizenship.

Who started National Constitution Day?

The observance was not started by a single person. Its modern form was designated by Congress in 1952, building on the historic September 17, 1787 signing of the Constitution.

How do you celebrate National Constitution Day?

You can celebrate by reading the Constitution and the Bill of Rights, joining a civic education event, or visiting a historic site like Independence Hall. Many schools, libraries, and museums use the day to teach constitutional history and civic responsibility.

Is National Constitution Day an official holiday?

It is an official U.S. observance, but not a federal holiday. Federal agencies are directed to provide educational materials about the Constitution on September 17.

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