Presidents Day
Honor the legacy of American presidents on Presidents Day! This federal holiday celebrates the contributions and leadership of all U.S. presidents, with special recognition for George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. Learn about presidential history, visit historical sites, and reflect on the importance of leadership and public service in American democracy.
About Presidents Day
Honor the legacy of American presidents on Presidents Day! This federal holiday celebrates the contributions and leadership of all U.S. presidents, with special recognition for George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. Learn about presidential history, visit historical sites, and reflect on the importance of leadership and public service in American democracy.
History & origins
Presidents Day is the common informal name for the federal holiday officially called Washington’s Birthday, which honors George Washington and falls on the third Monday in February. The holiday began as a February 22 observance for Washington in 1885, and the Uniform Monday Holiday Act of 1968 moved it to a Monday in 1971; the popular Presidents Day name grew because the date sits between Washington’s and Abraham Lincoln’s birthdays. Its origins are American, but the name and how it is celebrated vary by state and locality.
Why it matters
Presidents Day matters because it is a major U.S. civic observance that highlights presidential history, public service, and the country’s founding ideals. It also creates a widely recognized February break that schools, government offices, retailers, and museums often use for events, sales, and educational programming.
How to celebrate
Visit presidential libraries, monuments, or historical sites. Read biographies of American presidents and learn about their contributions. Watch documentaries about presidential history and American government. Attend local Presidents Day events and parades. Discuss the importance of civic engagement and democratic values.
Facts
- Presidents Day was originally established to honor George Washington's birthday
- It's officially called 'Washington's Birthday' at the federal level
- The holiday was moved to the third Monday in February in 1971
- Four U.S. presidents were born in February: Washington, Lincoln, Reagan, and Harrison
- Mount Rushmore features four presidents: Washington, Jefferson, Roosevelt, and Lincoln
Upcoming dates
- Monday, February 16, 2026
- Tuesday, February 16, 2027
- Wednesday, February 16, 2028
- Friday, February 16, 2029
- Saturday, February 16, 2030
Frequently asked questions
When is Presidents Day in 2026?
Presidents Day in 2026 is on Monday, February 16, 2026. It is observed on the third Monday in February.
What is Presidents Day?
Presidents Day is the informal name many people use for Washington’s Birthday, a U.S. federal holiday. It is meant to honor George Washington, and many Americans also use the day to recognize Abraham Lincoln and other presidents.
Who started Presidents Day?
No single person created Presidents Day as a modern holiday name. The observance began with Congress honoring George Washington in the 19th century, while the more general Presidents Day label became popular after the holiday was moved to February’s third Monday.
How do people celebrate Presidents Day?
People often celebrate by visiting presidential libraries, monuments, and historic sites, or by reading about U.S. presidents and American government. Many communities also hold parades, museum programs, and civic-education events.
Is Presidents Day the official federal name?
No, the official federal holiday name is Washington’s Birthday. Many states, businesses, and advertisers still use Presidents Day as a broader popular name.
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