In Ancient Rome, Ludi Plebeii was held from November 4–17, Epulum Jovis was held on November 13 and Brumalia celebrations began on November 24. These dates do not correspond to the modern Gregorian calendar.
November 11 is Veterans Day (U.S.) and Remembrance Day (Canada). If you’re fortunate, you may experience an “ Indian Summer ” in November, but according to the traditional definition, it can only occur between November 11 and 20!
Explore November holidays and observances, from national days to awareness and seasonal celebrations. Browse by date and see what to celebrate.
While November might remind us of historical events like the first official Thanksgiving, the Kennedy assassination or Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address, here are a few lesser-known November facts:
Explore 396 holidays and national days in November 2026. Detailed calendar of celebrations, observances, and special events.
History of November In the old Roman calendar, November was called mensis november, the ninth month, because the Roman calendar started in March. November initially had 29 days. In 154 BCE, a rebellion forced the Roman senate to change the beginning of the civil year from March to January 1st.
But if you look closely, holidays like National Cinnamon Day, National Doughnut Day, National Spicy Hermit Cookie, National Gingerbread Cookie Day, National Red Mitten Day and National Homemade Bread Day make November quite cozy.
November’s history dates back to ancient Rome, with its name and position in the calendar evolving over time. Let’s explore some fascinating facts about its origins and naming.