what kind of holiday is presidents day

Presidents Day is a U.S. federal holiday (officially called Washington’s Birthday) celebrated on the third Monday in February, mainly honoring George Washington and, in popular use, also Abraham Lincoln and often all U.S. presidents.

What kind of holiday is Presidents Day?

• It is a federal holiday , meaning:
  • Federal government offices and agencies close.

* The U.S. Postal Service does not deliver regular mail.

* Many banks also close, though private businesses decide individually whether to stay open.

• Official name at the federal level: Washington’s Birthday , even though most people call it Presidents Day.

• Date:
  • Observed on the third Monday in February , not on Washington’s actual birthday.

How different levels treat the holiday

• Federal level
  • Recognized nationwide as a federal holiday.
  • Federal employees generally get a paid day off.

• State level
  • All states recognize the federal holiday, but many name it “Presidents’ Day,” “Washington’s Birthday,” or similar variations.

* Some states treat it as a full public holiday; others treat it more like an observance (schools or local offices may or may not close).

• Everyday life
  • For many people, it functions as a long-weekend holiday, with some schools closed and lots of retail “Presidents Day” sales.
  • Communities and schools often use it to teach or reflect on U.S. history and the presidency.

Mini FAQ

• Is Presidents Day a government holiday?
  Yes, at the U.S. federal level it is a government (federal) holiday; federal offices, courts, and post offices close.

• Does everyone get the day off?
  No. Federal workers do, but states, schools, and private employers make their own decisions, so some people still work or attend school that day.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.