WASHINGTON, D.C. (LOOTPRESS) — Presidents’ Day is a federal holiday in the United States observed on the third Monday in February each year. In 2026, it falls on February 16. The day honors the nation’s presidents, past and present, and is rooted in the birthday of the country’s first president, George Washington.
Origins of the holiday
The observance began as Washington’s Birthday, celebrating George Washington’s Feb. 22 birth date. The holiday became a federal observance in the late 1800s.
In 1971, the federal government moved the celebration to the third Monday in February as part of the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, which shifted several holidays to Mondays to create more three-day weekends for workers.
Although the official federal name remains Washington’s Birthday, the holiday is commonly known as Presidents’ Day. Over time, many states and businesses began using the broader name to recognize both Washington and Abraham Lincoln — whose birthday is Feb. 12 — along with other U.S. presidents.
How it is observed
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Federal government offices, post offices, and most banks are closed.
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Schools and state offices often close, though policies vary by district.
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Many retailers hold major Presidents’ Day sales, making it one of the larger winter shopping weekends.
Historical significance
Presidents’ Day serves as a time to reflect on presidential leadership and the history of the executive branch. Educational programs, civic lessons, and historical exhibits are often scheduled around the holiday to highlight the role presidents have played in shaping the country.
While traditions differ across the nation, the day remains one of the 11 official federal holidays recognized in the United States.
