Statehood Day

In 2026, Statehood Day falls on Saturday, February 14, 2026. There are currently 42 days remaining until the celebration. This date is particularly significant as it marks the anniversary of when Arizona, Oregon, and South Dakota officially joined the Union, though each state entered in different years. For example, Arizona became the 48th state on this day in 1912, Oregon became the 33rd in 1859, and South Dakota became the 40th in 1889. Because it falls on a weekend in 2026, many residents may have more opportunities to participate in local historical events or visit state parks.

No, it is not a federal holiday, but it is recognized as a state holiday in Arizona. While it is an official day of observance, its impact on closures is limited. In Arizona, some schools and select government offices may close, but most private businesses, banks, and retail stores remain open and operate during normal business hours. In Oregon and South Dakota, the day is primarily a historical commemoration rather than a day of widespread closures. Visitors and residents should check with local municipalities or specific school districts for any scheduled closures, though most daily life continues as usual.

Arizona's path to statehood was a long journey that began in 1863 when it split from the New Mexico Territory. For decades, residents fought for independent statehood, famously opposing a proposal to enter the Union as a joint state with New Mexico. Their efforts finally succeeded when President William Howard Taft signed the statehood bill into law in the Oval Office on February 14, 1912. This made Arizona the 48th state and the last of the contiguous 48 states to be admitted. The timing on Valentine's Day was a matter of scheduling, but it has since given the state a unique 'romantic' historical identity.

Oregon was admitted to the Union on February 14, 1859, as the 33rd state. Its path was marked by intense congressional debates regarding slavery and territorial boundaries, eventually passing by a narrow margin just before the American Civil War. South Dakota followed later, officially joining the Union on February 14, 1889, as the 40th state. While these states share the same anniversary date as Arizona, their admissions represent different eras of American expansion—from the pre-Civil War settlement of the Pacific Northwest to the late 19th-century development of the Great Plains. The shared date serves as a unique patriotic link between these diverse regions.

Celebrations are generally low-key and focused on state pride and historical education rather than large-scale parades. In Arizona, festive events highlight the state’s 'Five Cs': copper, cattle, cotton, citrus, and climate. Activities often include historical reenactments, museum exhibits, and cultural festivals that showcase the state's diverse heritage, from its Indigenous roots to its Western pioneer history. Many people choose to celebrate by exploring the outdoors, visiting state parks like the Grand Canyon, or touring the state capital in Phoenix. In Oregon and South Dakota, the day is often marked by educational programs and reflections on the states' milestones and regional legacies.

Because Statehood Day coincides with Valentine's Day, a common tradition in Arizona is to refer to it as the 'Valentine State.' This overlap adds a lighthearted and romantic flair to the festivities, with some local events blending themes of love and state history. There are no specific religious customs or traditional foods required for the day; instead, the focus is on civic pride. Many residents display the state flag, and schools may hold special assemblies or history lessons. In Oregon, celebrations often emphasize the symbolism of the state flag and the perseverance of the early settlers who established the territory.

Visitors can expect varied weather conditions depending on the state. Arizona typically enjoys mild, pleasant winter weather, making it an ideal time for hiking and outdoor tourism. In contrast, Oregon and South Dakota are likely to be much colder, with potential for rain or snow. For those interested in history, visiting the state capitals—Phoenix, Salem, or Pierre—is highly recommended to see historical monuments and government buildings. Most tourist attractions, museums, and national parks remain open. Since the day is not a major national holiday, travel and lodging are generally unaffected by the holiday itself, though Valentine's Day might make dinner reservations more difficult to secure.

Statehood Day serves as an annual reminder of a state's unique identity and its contributions to the United States. It provides a platform for promoting tourism by highlighting natural wonders, the arts, and local industries. For Arizona, it is a time to celebrate the transition from a rugged territory to a modern economic hub known for its tourism and technology sectors. For Oregon and South Dakota, it evokes a sense of regional development and the legacy of the pioneers. These commemorations foster a sense of community and help educate younger generations about the political and social struggles their ancestors faced to achieve self-governance within the Union.