1

Super Bowl - The biggest party in America

Where were you when you first watched the Super Bowl? Do you have an all-time favorite game you’ll never forget? The Super Bowl is the biggest, most-watched single event in the United States . It has become an unofficial national holiday that unites millions of Americans through a shared love of football.

The Super Bowl halftime show brings people together for a massive cultural performance featuring iconic artists. The commercials are also highly anticipated, with some of the biggest-budget campaigns talked about as much as the game itself. The shared experience, alongside incredible moments like miracle comebacks, is often paired with classic game-day foods such as chicken wings, nachos, and pizza.

2

Independence Day - Red, white, and boom

Independence Day marks the birth of the United States as a free nation. On July 4, 1776, the Founding Fathers adopted the Declaration of Independence, cutting ties with Great Britain. This holiday unites the country through traditions, patriotic reflection, and celebration.

It brings friends and family together from coast to coast to enjoy parades with marching bands, classic cars, and community floats; spectacular fireworks lighting up the skies across the country ; and cookouts with barbecues, picnics, and backyard games. Red, white, and blue fill the scene, alongside the national anthem, "The Star-Spangled Banner," reinforcing a shared sense of pride.

3

Thanksgiving - The ultimate family feast

Do you love inviting everyone for Thanksgiving and preparing the ultimate feast? Or do you prefer visiting loved ones you haven’t seen in a while? Thanksgiving unites Americans through gratitude, food, and tradition.

It began in 1621, when early English settlers and Native Americans celebrated the autumn harvest. In 1863, during the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln made it a national holiday to heal and unite a divided country. With traditions ranging from turkey and stuffing to the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, NFL games, and volunteering at shelters, the holiday centers on gratitude and togetherness .

4

Christmas - A season of giving

Is Christmas your ultimate holiday? Do you look forward to it all year long? Even for those who don’t celebrate it religiously, it’s an occasion that blends diverse cultural backgrounds into a shared spirit of peace and goodwill . Traditions include the lighting of the National Christmas Tree in Washington, D.C., and large public celebrations in cities like New York.

President Ulysses S. Grant made Christmas a federal holiday in 1870 to help heal a divided nation after the Civil War. Today, that spirit lives on through neighborhoods turned into winter wonderlands with dazzling light displays, and comforting foods from turkey to apple pie, along with carols, gift-giving, and acts of charity.

5

New Year’s Eve Times Square Ball Drop - The countdown everyone shares

How important are your New Year's resolutions? Or are you just there for the midnight kiss? Either way, the New Year’s Eve Times Square Ball Drop is an iconic moment of unity.

Every December 31 at 11:59 p.m., the nation pauses to watch the countdown welcoming a fresh start. This tradition draws nearly one million people to New York City each year and reaches over one billion people worldwide through television and live broadcasts.

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March Madness - Brackets, buzzer-beaters & cinderella stories

How much do you enjoy competition and surprises? That’s exactly what March Madness is all about: the annual NCAA college basketball tournament known for its chaotic and thrilling unpredictability.

From casual viewers picking teams based on the mascot that catches their eye to die-hard fans with a long family history supporting the teams, this three-week-long sporting event captivates Americans. Filling out "brackets" before the championship begins and watching underdog "Cinderella" teams rise through the one-and-done format are all part of the excitement, culminating in the iconic "One Shining Moment" montage.

7

Election Day - Democracy in action

Do you remember being little, knowing it was Election Day, and watching your parents head out to vote? Or the first time your children voted? Despite intense political differences, there are nationwide traditions that millions of American families share.

Standing in line side by side represents equal access to democracy . The "I Voted " stickers are badges of civic pride that often spark conversation. Similarly, the "I Voted selfie" has become a modern way to share the moment and encourage others to do the same. As the day comes to a close, "watch parties" bring people together, while concession and victory speeches symbolize the peaceful transition of power after the race is called.

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Presidential Inauguration - A peaceful transfer of power

Presidential inaugurations are a symbol of American democracy, emphasizing the peaceful transition of power, respect for the Constitution, and hope for the future.

The first inauguration took place on April 30, 1789, when George Washington took the oath of office, reportedly adding the now-famous words "So help me God" . The first outdoor speech was given by Thomas Jefferson in 1801, reinforcing the idea of a government for the people. A more recent tradition is that the outgoing president leaves a letter for the incoming president, a gesture that shows the country is bigger than any political divide.

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Memorial Day - Honoring the fallen

Memorial Day is a federal holiday observed in the United States on the last Monday of May. It’s a solemn day that honors the men and women who died while serving in the U.S. Armed Forces.

One of the most meaningful moments is at 3:00 p.m. local time, when people across the country pause for a moment of silence to remember the fallen . The day blends national remembrance with the unofficial start of the summer season through community events.

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Veterans Day - A nation’s gratitude

Whether you are closely tied to the military or not, Veterans Day is deeply meaningful across the country. Observed annually on November 11, it honors all military veterans who have served in the United States Armed Forces . This holiday bridges political and cultural divides by prioritizing shared gratitude and respect for service.

The origin of the day goes back to Armistice Day, marking the end of World War I, as major hostilities ended at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month in 1918. Today, communities pause at exactly 11:00 a.m. for a moment of silence. Parades, from the New York City Veterans Day Parade to small neighborhood celebrations, as well as the wreath-laying ceremony at the "Tomb of the Unknown Soldier" at Arlington National Cemetery, remain powerful traditions.

1

"White Christmas" by Bing Crosby (1942)

Image: Ivan Dorofeev

This is a perfect choice to start with. One of the most iconic holiday songs of all time, "White Christmas," definitely holds a special place in the hearts and minds of all Americans.

Released in 1942, the song became an instant hit and was played on every radio station. It even went on to sell over 50 million copies worldwide!

Ella Fitzgerald, Frank Sinatra, and Michael Bublé are just a few of the legendary artists who made their own version of this classic song. It's one of our favorites for the holiday season!

2

"Heartbreak Hotel" by Elvis Presley (1956)

Image: Drew Beamer

The 1950s introduced one of the most exciting musical innovations to the spotlight: rock and roll. And when it comes to rock, we have to mention the King.

In 1956, Elvis released his iconic "Heartbreak Hotel," which had everyone singing along at the top of their lungs with the unforgettable line, "You made me so sad, oh, so sad."

An undeniable hit, "Heartbreak Hotel" was pivotal for Elvis Presley's career, as the song became his first number-one hit on the Billboard Hot 100. We've already rushed to play it; we hope you do too!

3

"Johnny B. Goode" by Chuck Berry (1958)

Image: Erik Mclean

We know we promised "only one per decade," but it's just too hard to stick to that rule! We couldn't resist including this legendary Chuck Berry track.

Yes, we're talking about "Johnny B. Goode," the 1958 hit that could make even a statue dance! When this song hits your ears, it’s nearly impossible not to give in to its charm and start moving. With its unforgettable electric guitar riff right from the start, this tune is instantly recognizable to anyone who has ever set foot in this beautiful country.

Not only was this song an instant hit, but it also gained even more fans when it was featured in the 1985 film Back to the Future.

4

"Like a Rolling Stone" by Bob Dylan (1965)

Image: weston m

Now, let's pause the dancing for a moment to focus on the lyrics and melody of one of the greatest songs ever.

"Like a Rolling Stone," released by the amazing Bob Dylan in the year 1965, introduced listeners to Dylan's iconic rock sound. Acclaimed and celebrated by critics and audiences alike, the song features something unusual for the time of its release: it's almost 6 minutes long!

But its lengthy duration did not hinder the track from becoming a hit, and it certainly didn't prevent it from evolving into a classic.

5

"Hotel California" by Eagles (1976)

Image: Diane Picchiottino

When someone mentions the Eagles, the first song that instantly comes to our minds is the iconic "Hotel California," released in 1977.

This hit features great lyrics and an exceptional sound, reaching millions of listeners and inspiring covers in different musical genres and languages. While interpretations of its lyrics are many and varied, one of the most popular theories is that it metaphorically explores the dark side of rock stardom.

Featuring one of the most iconic guitar solos in rock history, "Hotel California" remains a timeless gem that we continue to enjoy to this day.

6

"Billie Jean" by Michael Jackson (1982)

Image: Markus Spiske

It's time to put on your dancing shoes again. Just two seconds of this song is enough for anyone on Earth to recognize it.

Every time Michael Jackson's "Billie Jean" plays, it's like magic—everyone starts moving. And that has been true since its release in the early 1980s. In fact, the song spent seven consecutive weeks at the top of the Billboard Hot 100, becoming one of the best-selling singles in history!

Did you know that Michael Jackson first showcased his Moonwalk dance during a performance of this hit?

7

"Smells Like Teen Spirit" by Nirvana (1991)

Image: Jurian Kersten

This song is the quintessential symbol of the 1990s and one of the most defining tracks of grunge.

"Smells Like Teen Spirit" was released in 1991 as the lead single from Nirvana's second and most iconic album, Nevermind . It quickly became a sensation and is often considered an anthem for Generation X.

There’s a humorous story behind the song’s title: Kurt Cobain's friend wrote "Smells Like Teen Spirit" on a wall as a joke, and the singer just loved it. It turns out "Teen Spirit" was actually a brand of deodorant, but Cobain didn't know that!

8

"I Will Always Love You" by Whitney Houston (1992)

Image: israel palacio

Get ready to grab some tissues, because this one might bring on a few tears.

Remember the 1992 movie The Bodyguard ? Beyond the incredible performances of Whitney Houston and Kevin Costner, one of the most celebrated aspects of the movie is its beloved soundtrack.

The song was originally written and recorded by the great Dolly Parton in 1973, almost 20 years before the movie. Whitney Houston recorded "I Will Always Love You" in 1992 specifically for The Bodyguard . Her cover surpassed the original version in popularity, becoming one of the most listened-to romantic hits of all time.

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"Umbrella" by Rihanna ft. Jay-Z (2007)

Image: Kittitep Khotchalee

Welcome to the 21st century, where everything is a bit more accelerated.

You've probably heard, "Under my umbrella, ella, ella, eh, eh, eh." That's the catchy chorus from "Umbrella" by Rihanna featuring Jay-Z, released in 2007 as part of her album Good Girl Gone Bad.

The song got people all over the world dancing and singing along, topping charts in the US, Canada, the UK, Australia, and other countries.

Its iconic music video, featuring rain and an impressive umbrella choreography, inspired countless replicas.

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"Uptown Funk" by Mark Ronson ft. Bruno Mars (2014)

Image: Greyson Joralemon

If you feel like dancing, this is the track you should play. This song is all about rhythm!

Released in 2014, "Uptown Funk" combines modern sounds with a funky retro beat that immediately takes you back to the 1980s. This mix was the key to captivating everyone! This song quickly became popular, with everyone knowing the lyrics by heart. Its success was unprecedented, spending an incredible 14 weeks at #1 on the US Billboard Hot 100.

With its upbeat vibe and infectious rhythm, this is one of the defining songs of the mid-2010s.

1

Marilyn Monroe (1926–1962)

The definitive blonde bombshell, the one and only Marilyn Monroe took the world by storm with her talent and breathtaking beauty during Hollywood’s Golden Age. And although the world will always remember her image and performance in classic films like Some Like It Hot (1959), her unforgettable smile often hid deep sadness.

The queen of glamour suffered from anxiety and substance abuse, and was very frustrated by the roles offered to her; her life came to a sudden end on August 5, 1962, at the age of 36, following an overdose.

2

Judy Garland (1922–1969)

When you think of Judy Garland, sweet, hopeful Dorothy Gale in 1939’s The Wizard of Oz immediately comes to mind. Just 17 when the film was released, her career as an actress and gifted singer was off to a fantastic start, and her future looked bright.

But the studio system repeatedly pressured Garland with strict dieting and the use of stimulants and sedatives when working as a young performer. Later in life, she struggled with mental illness and financial problems. Garland was 47 when she passed away in London on June 22, 1969, after an overdose.

3

James Dean (1931–1955)

What James Dean achieved in just five years in the movie industry is mind-blowing. In the 1950s, Dean was one of the most iconic figures in Hollywood; he was the cool young heartthrob who became a symbol of rebellion after the smash hit Rebel Without a Cause (1955).

But at the peak of his career, he had a car crash while driving his Porsche 550 Spyder in California and was killed at age 24.

4

John Candy (1950–1994)

John Candy’s warm and funny characters have a special place in Hollywood history, and his death still feels unfair. Born in Ontario, Canada, in 1950, Candy became a major comedy star thanks to classics like Trains & Automobiles (1987), Uncle Buck (1989), and The Great Outdoors (1988).

And while he still had so much to offer, on March 4, 1994, he suffered a sudden heart attack while filming Wagons East! (1994) and died at the age of 43.

5

Robin Williams (1951–2014)

Robin Williams always inspires a bittersweet smile. A genius comedian who could make audiences crack up with a funny accent or an impish smile — with real dramatic chops, too —  Williams starred in classics like Mrs. Doubtfire (1993) and brought us to tears with his outstanding performance in movies like Good Will Hunting (1997).

But behind the hilarious comedian, Robin struggled with depression and substance dependence, as well as Lewy body disease. He died by suicide on August 11, 2014, at the age of 63.

6

Patrick Swayze (1952–2009)

Patrick Swayze made movie history in classics like Dirty Dancing (1987) and Ghost (1990). Swayze’s energetic performances and his image as the romantic, tough heartthrob have a lasting legacy.

He was nominated three times for the Golden Globes (1997, 1990, and 1995). Sadly, in 2008, Swayze announced he had pancreatic cancer and passed away 20 months later on September 14, 2009, at the age of 57.

7

River Phoenix (1970–1993)

The older brother of the Oscar-winning actor Joaquin Phoenix, River Phoenix was considered one of the most promising young actors of his generation. His ticket to stardom came with Stand by Me (1986) when he was just 16 years old, and from there, his reputation took off with movies like Running on Empty (1988) and My Own Private Idaho (1991).

But when he was riding high in Hollywood, Phoenix lost his life at just 23, outside the Viper Room nightclub in Los Angeles on October 31, 1993, from acute multiple drug intoxication.

8

Chris Farley (1964–1997)

Starting out in Chicago’s Second City comedy troupe and later joining Saturday Night Live in 1990, Chris Farley knew exactly how to get a laugh out of the audience with memorable characters like motivational speaker Matt Foley.

He became a major comedy star and made it to the big screen in movies like Tommy Boy (1995) and Black Sheep (1996). But behind the laughter, Farley struggled with substance use. He lost his life due to an overdose in 1997 when he was just 33 years old.

9

Heath Ledger (1979–2008)

Heath Ledger remains one of the most respected actors in Hollywood, and his performances are widely remembered, especially his final turn in The Dark Knight (2008), in which he gave a masterful portrayal of Batman’s most iconic villain, the Joker — considered by many to be the best portrayal of the character ever.

Ledger was found dead in his apartment at the age of 28 from an accidental overdose. Thirteen months later, he won the Oscar for Best Supporting Actor posthumously for his performance.

10

Jonathan Brandis (1976–2003)

Jonathan Brandis rose to fame after he played the courageous Bill Denbrough in the 1990 television miniseries It , based on Stephen King’s novel, though he had also previously starred in The NeverEnding Story II (1990).

Brandis was a teen heartthrob with a seemingly bright future, but his career opportunities started to dry up as he got older. He struggled with severe depression and heavy drinking, and took his own life on November 12, 2003, at the age of 27.