Here are 5 fall holidays you didn’t know about

Halloween and Thanksgiving aren’t the only holidays to celebrate during the fall.

In between the mad rush for pumpkins and turkeys are a few holidays that live in the shadows.

These special days won’t get you time off from work or school, but are certainly worth knowing about.

 

Gold Star Mother's Day (Sept. 27)

This holiday is observed each year on the last Sunday in September. Americans honor lost sons and daughters who served in the United States Armed Forces on Sept. 27.

Family members place flags with blue stars in their windows as a tribute. A gold star was reserved for those killed in duty.

This holiday dates back to World War I and continues to remain a support system to women who have lost their children while serving the country.

 

Child Health Day (Oct. 5)

The holiday which began in 1928, raises awareness for the welfare and health needs of children in the U.S.

In 2013, President Obama signed a proclamation reinforcing the need for the holiday.

"I call upon families, child health professionals, faith-based and community organizations, and all levels of government to help ensure America's children stay healthy," he said.

Leif Erikson Day (Oct. 9)

This holiday is meant to celebrate the spirit of adventure and exploration inspired by Leif Erikson.

The Icelandic explorer is widely believed to have beat Christopher Colombus in discovering North America 400 years earlier (though he stayed on the continentfor a short period of time.)

Erikson first landed on an island he named "Helluland," which is believed to be the largest island off the coast of Canada.

 

White Cane Safety Day (Oct. 15)

This day celebrates people with below-average vision, and the milestones they have achieved over the decades.

It wasn't until 1930 that blind people were granted the right to travel independently by using a white cane.

In 1964, President Lyndon B. Johnson proclaimed Oct. 15 as White Cane Safety Day.

Today, there are canes in a variety of colors, and the visually-impaired are more independent than ever .

Boss's Day (Oct. 16)

On Friday, Oct. 16, America celebrates Boss's day, to give tribute to the people that (hopefully) help make your job easier.

The holiday originated in 1958 from a State Farm insurance employee named Patricia Bays Haroski as a way to create a better relationship between supervisors and employees.

Today, you can even visit your local drug store to get a Hallmark card for the occasion.