NATIONAL DAYHISTORY & MILITARY

Presidents Day

This Presidents Day, let’s take a moment to reflect on the legacies of our nation's leaders.

FEB16
Monday, February 16Third Monday in February
Roots
Federal holiday since 1879 as Washington's Birthday; moved to the third Monday in 1971
Vibe
A day for reflection and celebration of leadership
Hashtag
#PresidentsDay
Apple or Outlook calendar

3 ways to celebrate

AT HOME

Visit a historic site

Tour a presidential library or landmark in your area.

WITH FRIENDS

Host a history quiz

Quiz friends on presidential trivia over snacks.

AT WORK OR SCHOOL

Read a biography

Pick a presidential biography to read or discuss in class.

Plan ahead

Presidents Day is observed on the third Monday in February. Here is where it lands for the next ten years, handy for planners, marketers and party people.

2026Mon, Feb 16this year
2027Mon, Feb 15
2028Mon, Feb 21
2029Mon, Feb 19
2030Mon, Feb 18
2031Mon, Feb 17
2032Mon, Feb 16
2033Mon, Feb 21
2034Mon, Feb 20
2035Mon, Feb 19
2036Mon, Feb 18

Add to my calendar (repeats yearly)

Fast facts

George Washington's birthday is February 22
Abraham Lincoln's birthday is February 12

The story

Presidents Day, originally established to honor George Washington's birthday on February 22, has evolved into a celebration of all American presidents. This federal holiday, observed on the third Monday of February, was created to provide workers with a long weekend while also paying homage to the nation's leaders. The Uniform Monday Holiday Act, passed in 1971, aimed to provide more three-day weekends for the nation’s workers and consolidates several holidays into a single celebration.

Read the full story

The significance of Presidents Day extends beyond just a day off from work; it serves as a time for Americans to reflect on the contributions of past leaders. Washington and Lincoln are particularly spotlighted due to their pivotal roles in shaping the nation. Schools often engage students in projects and discussions about the qualities of effective leadership, helping to instill a sense of civic responsibility.

In many communities across the United States, Presidents Day is marked by parades, educational activities, and historical reenactments. Museums and historic sites often offer special programming that highlights the lives and legacies of various presidents. Retailers also participate, using the holiday as a means to promote sales, although the focus remains on honoring leadership rather than commercialism.

As the holiday approaches, citizens are encouraged to engage in acts of service or reflection, considering how leadership shapes society. Whether through community discussions or personal reflection on the values upheld by these leaders, Presidents Day invites us to appreciate the triumphs and challenges faced by those who have held the highest office in the land.

Did you know?

01

George Washington's Birth

Washington was born on February 22, 1732.

02

Lincoln's Impact

Lincoln led the nation during the Civil War.

03

Presidents Day Sales

Many retailers offer discounts on this day.

04

Presidents Day in Schools

Students often learn about presidents' achievements.

05

Presidential Libraries

Many presidents have dedicated libraries for research.

06

National Holiday

Presidents Day is a federal holiday.

07

Historical Reenactments

Communities often hold reenactments to celebrate.

Around the world

Every culture celebrates a little differently.

  • USUnited StatesCelebrated nationwide with various events.
  • CACanadaRecognizes the day as Family Day.
  • GBUnited KingdomNo official celebration, but awareness of U.S. traditions.
  • AUAustraliaSome awareness but no formal observance.
  • DEGermanyInterest in American history, especially Presidents.
  • FRFranceCultural exchanges highlight American leadership.

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