Presidents Day, officially recognized by the federal government as Washington’s Birthday, is a U.S. federal holiday celebrated on the third Monday in February to honor the life and legacy of the first president, George Washington. In 2026, it is observed on February 16, typically celebrating all U.S. presidents, particularly including Abraham Lincoln.
Key Details About Presidents Day:
- Purpose: Officially established in 1879 to honor George Washington’s birthday (February 22), it has evolved to honor all U.S. presidents.
- When: The holiday is observed on the third Monday in February, which in 2026 is Monday, February 16
- Origins: Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act in 1968 (effective 1971), moving the celebration from Feb. 22 to a Monday to create a three-day weekend.
- What is Closed: As a federal holiday, non-essential government offices, the Federal Reserve, and most banks are closed. The U.S. Postal Service will not deliver mail, though some private retailers and services remain open.
- Traditions: Common celebrations include sales, educational events focusing on presidential history, and in some areas, the annual reading of Washington’s farewell address.
While often called “Presidents’ Day” or “Presidents Day,” it is not the official name of the federal holiday, which remains Washington’s Birthday.
