Presidents’ Day

Presidents’ Day in the United States is not only a political event, but also a patriotic holiday. Presidents’ Day is celebrated annually on the third Monday in February and has a long and fascinating history. Originally, the holiday was known as “George Washington’s Birthday,” but over time it became dedicated to all U.S. presidents, not just the first.

History

Presidents’ Day has been an official holiday in the country since January 1, 1971, and is a federal day off for all Americans. On this day, stores across the U.S. traditionally lower prices, competing for shoppers’ attention with major sales. Nationwide, mass celebrations and parades are held, while businesses and schools close for the long weekend. Today, this holiday continues to be celebrated on a grand scale as Americans honor their national history.

Interesting Facts

Several U.S. presidents have birthdays in February. Here are a few notable facts:

• Until 1971, Abraham Lincoln’s and George Washington’s birthdays were celebrated separately; after that, they were combined into a single holiday.
• President Richard Nixon issued the order for a unified Presidents’ Day.
• In some Southern states, Abraham Lincoln is less celebrated due to lingering feelings about the Civil War and his role in it.

Most Americans hold their national history in high esteem and observe Presidents’ Day with large-scale celebrations every year.

How to Take Part

To mark this significant day, you can read a book or watch a film about notable American presidents. If you are in the U.S., visit historical sites related to the country’s leaders. Across America, cultural and educational events are held in libraries, along with scientific conferences and lectures on the nation’s political history and democracy.

The United States places great value on its foundational principles and loves to celebrate political and patriotic holidays. Presidents’ Day is a wonderful opportunity to remember the people who have made substantial contributions to the country’s development. All U.S. presidents have promoted democratic values such as freedom, transparency, and equality for all citizens.

When is Presidents’ Day in 2026?

Presidents’ Day is observed on the third Monday in February each year.

Observations