Presidents' Day

In 2026, Presidents' Day will be observed on Monday, February 16, 2026. As of the start of the year, there are approximately 44 days remaining until the holiday occurs. It is held annually on the third Monday of February, which ensures a three-day weekend for many citizens. In the 2026 calendar year, it serves as the 47th day of the year, leaving 318 days remaining until the year concludes.

Yes, it is a federal holiday in the United States. Officially known as Washington's Birthday at the federal level, it was established to honor the country's first president. Because it is a federal holiday, all non-essential federal government offices, including the U.S. Postal Service and federal courts, are closed. Most banks and the stock market also close their doors, and many schools and state offices follow suit, though private sector participation varies by employer.

The holiday was originally established in 1879 to celebrate George Washington's actual birthday on February 22. It became the first federal holiday to celebrate the life of an individual American. In 1968, the Uniform Monday Holiday Act moved the observance to the third Monday in February to provide workers with more three-day weekends. While the federal government still officially calls it Washington's Birthday, the holiday is now popularly known as Presidents' Day to honor all U.S. presidents, particularly George Washington and Abraham Lincoln, whose birthdays both fall in February.

Most Americans treat the holiday as a day for rest or personal activities rather than major public festivities. It is widely recognized as a significant day for retail, with many stores hosting 'Presidents' Day Sales' to attract shoppers. Some people use the long weekend for short travel or winter sports. On a more formal level, patriotic groups may organize historical reenactments or parades, and schools often dedicate time in the preceding week to teach students about the history of the presidency and the contributions of specific leaders like Washington and Lincoln.

Unlike holidays such as Thanksgiving or Independence Day, Presidents' Day does not have widespread religious or family traditions. There are no specific traditional foods or costumes. In the past, the day was sometimes marked by fasting and prayer, but modern customs are more civic in nature. Common activities include the reading of George Washington's Farewell Address in the U.S. Senate and community events that honor veterans. Many people simply enjoy the day off as a break between New Year's Day and the spring holidays.

Government-run institutions like post offices, public libraries, and federal buildings are closed. Most commercial banks and the New York Stock Exchange are also closed. While many public schools take the day off, some may use it as a makeup day for winter weather closures. In contrast, the retail and hospitality sectors remain very active. Restaurants, movie theaters, and shopping malls typically stay open with standard or even extended hours to accommodate the influx of shoppers looking for holiday discounts.

Visitors should expect lighter traffic in business districts during the Monday holiday, but increased crowds at shopping centers and popular tourist destinations. If you are in the Washington, D.C. area, sites like Mount Vernon (Washington’s estate) often host special programs and historical demonstrations. It is a good time to visit museums, though you should check for holiday hours. For expats, it is important to note that while all 50 states recognize the holiday, some may use different names, such as 'Washington-Lincoln Day' or 'George Washington's Day'.

If you plan to travel, be aware that the three-day weekend often leads to higher prices for flights and hotels, especially in popular winter destinations or historic cities. It is recommended to book accommodations in advance. If you are looking for deals, this is one of the best times of the year to purchase large appliances, mattresses, or clothing due to the nationwide sales events. Always check the local weather forecast, as February can bring significant snowstorms to the northern and central parts of the United States, potentially impacting travel plans.