In the United States, there are only ten "national holidays" (in February, for example, Washington`s Birthday is one, but Valentines Day is not).  You are a Senator who will be reviewing the country`s policy for creating national holidays.  What should the criteria be to make a day a "national holiday"?   

What makes a day worthy of being a national holiday?

Students will investigate different holidays to determine the common characteristics.  They will consider the benefits of a national holiday in terms of costs and national pride.