March 17

Evacuation Day marks March 17, 1776, when British troops withdrew from Boston following the Siege of Boston. Led by General George Washington, American forces fortified Dorchester Heights, compelling the British to abandon the city. Celebrated specifically in Suffolk County, including Boston, the day has been observed as a legal holiday since the 18th century. Traditional commemorations include parades, reenactments, and ceremonies at historic sites. Local government offices and schools may close or host special events reflecting on the city's revolutionary past. The holiday underscores Boston’s pivotal role in the founding of the United States and its enduring spirit of independence.