Presidents Day 2026

Presidents Day Day falls on Monday, February 16.


There are 168 days till Presidents Day 2026.


What is Presidents Day?

Presidents Day, a federal holiday in the United States, commemorates the emancipation of enslaved African Americans. The name 'Presidents Day' is a portmanteau of 'June' and 'nineteenth,' reflecting the holiday's date. However, it is also known by various other names, such as Freedom Day, Jubilee Day, Liberation Day, and Emancipation Day. These alternative names not only reflect the cultural richness and diversity of its observance but also signify the different aspects of freedom and liberation that the holiday represents.

When is Presidents Day?

Presidents' Day is a federal holiday in the United States, and it is observed on the third Monday of February every year. It honors and remembers all the presidents of the United States, past and present.

 

Presidents' Day History

The holiday, which originated in the celebration of George Washington's birthday on February 22, 1732, the first president of the United States, has evolved over time to also honor Abraham Lincoln, born on February 12, 1809, often referred to as the 'Father of the Nation.'

 

Presidents' Day Traditions

Presidents' Day serves as a day of rest and reflection, with many government offices, schools, and businesses closed. It's a day for Americans to take pride in the presidency and the pivotal role that presidents have played in shaping the nation's history.

Some common ways that people celebrate Presidents' Day include:

  • Visiting presidential libraries and museums
  • Taking a tour of the White House or other presidential homes
  • Participating in patriotic events and ceremonies
  • Reading about the lives and accomplishments of past presidents
  • Spending time with family and friends

It's worth noting that while Presidents' Day is often referred to as a day to honor all presidents, it is not an official federal holiday to honor all presidents. Instead, it is primarily a day to honor Washington and Lincoln, often called the "founding fathers" of the United States.

 

President's Day Observances

Here are the upcoming dates for Presidents Day for the next few years:

  • 2026: Monday, February 16
  • 2027: Monday, February 15
  • 2028: Monday, February 21
  • 2029: Monday, February 19
  • 2030: Monday, February 21

 

Why Is Presidents' Day on a Monday?

Presidents' Day is celebrated on the third Monday of February every year. This date was chosen as a compromise between the birthdays of two of America's most influential presidents: George Washington (February 22) and Abraham Lincoln (February 12). Scheduling the holiday on a Monday, the 1968 Uniform Monday Holiday Act was designed to give federal employees a regular and relaxing three-day weekend, all while celebrating the lasting legacies of these two celebrated leaders.

 

Is it called Presidents' Day or Washington's Birthday?

While often called Washington's Birthday, the official name is Presidents' Day, honoring all U.S. presidents. Some states like Virginia and New York still observe it as Washington's Birthday.

 

Is Presidents' Day a Public Holiday?

Presidents' Day is a federal holiday in the U.S., observed by all federal agencies, courts, banks, and many private entities, though it's not mandatory.

 

Quotes from George Washington

As we commemorate George Washington's legacy, we are reminded of his wisdom and leadership. Five inspiring quotations from the inaugural President of the United States follow.

  1. "It is better to offer no excuse than a bad one."– These wise words remind us to take responsibility for our actions and be honest in our interactions.
  2. "The power of the Constitution is not to be found in its words, but in the character of the men who made it."– The former President leaves a written testament to the importance of integrity and character in leadership.
  3. "To be prepared for war is one of the most effectual means of preserving peace."– As we read these lines, we reflect on the importance of preparedness and diplomacy in maintaining peace.
  4. "Liberty, when it begins to take root, is a plant of rapid growth."– This quote is again a powerful statement on the importance of freedom and its potential for growth and development.
  5. "Example is the school of mankind, and they will learn at no other."– When we read this saying, we reflect that our actions and behavior set an example for others, and that we should strive to be positive role models.

 

Related: 2026 holidays