American Flag

Presidents Day 2025

Celebrate America's Leaders

When is Presidents Day 2025?

Monday, February 17, 2025

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What is Presidents Day?

Official Federal Holiday

Presidents Day is a federal holiday in the United States celebrating the legacy of American presidential leadership, with special recognition of George Washington and Abraham Lincoln.

It is officially designated as "Washington's Birthday" in section 6103(a) of title 5 of the United States Code.

1History & Origin

The holiday originated in 1885 to honor George Washington's birthday (February 22).

In 1971, the Uniform Monday Holiday Act moved its observance to the third Monday in February.

Over time, it evolved to celebrate both Washington and Lincoln, and eventually all U.S. presidents.

2Federal Recognition

Presidents Day is one of eleven federal holidays in the United States.

All federal offices are closed, and federal employees receive paid time off.

Most state government offices and many private businesses also observe the holiday.

3Significance

The holiday honors presidential leadership and patriotism.

It particularly commemorates George Washington's crucial role in establishing American democracy.

The day also celebrates Abraham Lincoln's preservation of the Union and all presidential contributions.

4Modern Celebration

Modern celebrations include patriotic ceremonies and educational programs.

Schools organize special activities focused on presidential history.

The holiday has also become a major retail event with significant sales and discounts.

While the federal government still officially calls it "Washington's Birthday," "Presidents Day" has become the commonly accepted name in most states and among the general public.

Upcoming Presidents Day Dates

YearDate
2025Monday, February 17
2026Monday, February 16
2027Monday, February 15
2028Monday, February 21
2029Monday, February 19

Presidents Day is always observed on the third Monday of February.

Traditions & Fun Facts

Celebrations

  • •Parades and civic ceremonies across the nation
  • •Educational programs in schools featuring presidential reenactments and history lessons
  • •Wreath-laying ceremonies at Mount Vernon and the Lincoln Memorial
  • •Special museum exhibits featuring presidential artifacts and memorabilia

Shopping Traditions

Presidents Day has become one of America's biggest shopping holidays, featuring:

  • •Major discounts on mattresses, furniture, and appliances (savings up to 70%)
  • Car dealerships offering special "Presidential" pricing and deals
  • •Extended weekend sales at most major retailers

Historical Significance

Originally established in 1885 to honor George Washington, the holiday has evolved significantly:

  • •First federal holiday to specifically honor an American citizen
  • •Shifted to Monday observance in 1971 under the Uniform Monday Holiday Act
  • •Now celebrates all U.S. presidents, with special focus on Washington and Lincoln

Presidential Fun Facts

Did you know?

  • •Four presidents were born in February: Washington (22nd), W.H. Harrison (9th), Lincoln (12th), and Reagan (6th)
  • •George Washington never lived in the White House - it was completed after his death
  • •Abraham Lincoln was the tallest president at 6'4", while James Madison was the shortest at 5'4"
  • •The first Presidents Day sales began in the 1980s, turning the holiday into a major retail event

Frequently Asked Questions

Presidential Wisdom

“Ask not what your country can do for you – ask what you can do for your country.”

John F. Kennedy
1961 • Inaugural Address