What is Presidents’ Day / Washington’s Birthday?
Presidents’ Day, also known as Washington’s Birthday, is a federal holiday which is celebrated on the third Monday of February. The purpose of this day is commemorating the presidents of the United States of America, especially George Washington who was the first president of the United States of America.
Americans see George Washington as the father of the United States of America. His first term as a president was between the years 1789 - 1793 and he did his second term between the years 1793 - 1797. Even before becoming president, he took important roles in the military and policy. He is still known as one of the most successful American politicians.
Because of this reason, at first, his birthday, 22nd of February accepted as a federal holiday in 1879. But there was a second federal holiday commemorating Abraham Lincoln who was born on the 12th of February. For a while, until 1971, Americans celebrated two different days in commemoration of two different presidents. In 1971, former president Richard Nixon decided to combine these two federal holidays and the third Monday of February passed into history and agenda as a federal holiday in commemoration of all the former presidents of United States of America.
That’s why this holiday was designated as Washington’s Birthday at first. After the changing about its date, the name of the holiday has also changed as Presidents’ Day.
Presidents’ Day is an occasion for commemorating the former presidents of United States of America and remembering their service for the country. In this day, many stores and shops sell special gifts and souvenirs. People hold various ceremonies for celebrating this day.
When is Presidents’ Day / Washington’s Birthday?
Presidents’ Day 2018 has already passed. It was on Monday, February 19, 2018. The next Presidents’ Day / Washington’s Birthday is on Monday, February 18, 2019.
Dates for Presidents Day 2018 to 2025
- Presidents Day 2019 - February 18, 2019 - Monday
- Presidents Day 2020 - February 17, 2020 - Monday
- Presidents Day 2021 - February 15, 2021 - Monday
- Presidents Day 2022 - February 21, 2022 - Monday
- Presidents Day 2023 - February 20, 2023 - Monday
- Presidents Day 2024 - February 19, 2024 - Monday
- Presidents Day 2025 - February 17, 2025 - Monday
Which businesses that will and won't be closed on Feb. 18?
Mail services
The United States Postal Service will not deliver mail on Presidents Day, but UPS and FedEx will operate as usual.
Banks
Most banks, including Federal Reserve Banks and Wells Fargo, will be closed. TD Bank will be open Presidents Day.
Schools
Most public schools will be closed to observe the federal holiday, and many private schools will do the same. Some schools might be in session to make up for weather-related cancellations.
Stock markets
The New York Stock Exchange, Nasdaq and bond markets will be closed.
Garbage
Trash pickup will vary. Check with your local provider.
DMV
Department of Motor Vehicles offices across the U.S. will be closed.
Courts
Courts will not be in session.
Retail stores
Most department stores and retail shops will be open, many offering Presidents Day sales. Most restaurants will also remain open.
Grocery stores
Most grocery stores will be open.