Annual observance

Bill of Rights Day

December 15 Cultural / community observance Updated 2025-12-18

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Overview

Bill of Rights Day is observed annually on December 15th to commemorate the day the Bill of Rights was ratified in 1791. This seminal document, comprising the first ten amendments to the United States Constitution, established fundamental civil liberties and rights for American citizens, including freedom of speech, religion, and the right to a fair trial. It serves as a cornerstone of American democracy, protecting individual freedoms against governmental overreach.

Observed each year on December 15, Bill of Rights Day invites people to pause, share the story, and bring a little themed joy to their day.

Why it matters: Bill of Rights Day, observed on December 15, honors the ratification of the Bill of Rights in 1791, which enshrined essential civil liberties and rights for American citizens. This day serves as a reminder of the importance of these amendments in safeguarding individual freedoms and maintaining the balance of power between the government and the people.

Origin and story

The Bill of Rights consists of the first ten amendments to the United States Constitution.

It was officially ratified on December 15, 1791, after being proposed by James Madison.

Quick facts

  • DateDecember 15
  • TypeCultural / community observance
  • Great forFriends, Families, Classrooms, Teams

Also on this date

Ways to celebrate

  • Plan something small on December 15: a quick nod to Bill of Rights Day with friends, family, or coworkers.
  • Add Bill of Rights Day to your Obscure Holiday Calendar app widget so you get a reminder next year.
  • Bring the theme into your day—decorate a workspace, cook or bake something inspired by Bill of Rights, or play music that matches the mood.
  • Bill of Rights Day lands on December 15 — host a quick nod with Friends, Families and snap a photo.
  • Post a story with #bill-of-rights-day and invite others to try a tiny activity.

Fun facts

  • The Bill of Rights consists of the first ten amendments to the United States Constitution.
  • It was officially ratified on December 15, 1791, after being proposed by James Madison.
  • The primary purpose of the Bill of Rights was to address concerns of the Anti-Federalists who feared the new Constitution did not adequately protect individual liberties.
  • President Franklin D. Roosevelt officially designated December 15th as Bill of Rights Day in 1941, during World War II.
  • Twelve amendments were originally proposed to the states, but only ten were ratified and became known as the Bill of Rights.
  • Among the rights protected are freedom of speech, press, religion, assembly, the right to bear arms, and protection against unreasonable searches and seizures.

Sources and attribution

Source not provided.


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FAQ

When is Bill of Rights Day?
It is observed on December 15 each year.
What is Bill of Rights Day?
Bill of Rights Day is observed annually on December 15th to commemorate the day the Bill of Rights was ratified in 1791. This seminal document, comprising the first ten amendments to the United States Constitution, established fundamental civil liberties and rights for American citizens, including freedom of speech, religion, and the right to a fair trial. It serves as a cornerstone of American democracy, protecting individual freedoms against governmental overreach.
How do people celebrate Bill of Rights Day?
Plan something small on December 15: a quick nod to Bill of Rights Day with friends, family, or coworkers.

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