Every February, the United States celebrates Presidents’ Day – a national holiday honoring all the United States presidents, past and present. This year, on Monday, February 20th, America will come together to remember and honor our greatest leaders. Since the first celebration in 1885, the day has grown to include not only commemorations of presidents from across history but also celebrations of civic life in general. This year’s observations might look different from years past due to the pandemic, but we can still make something special out of it by reflecting on what makes this nation great and how we can continue to make it even better. Let’s take a look at what’s happening for Presidents’ Day 2021 and how you can be part of the festivities!
What is Presidents’ Day?
Presidents’ Day is a federal holiday in the United States that celebrates the lives and legacies of all past presidents of the country. It is observed on the third Monday of February each year.
The day was originally established in 1885 to honor President George Washington, who was born on February 22. In 1971, the holiday was moved to the third Monday in February in order to create a longer Presidents’ Day weekend.
All 50 states have officially adopted Presidents’ Day, though some still refer to it by its original name, Washington’s Birthday. Regardless of what it’s called, the holiday is an occasion to remember the accomplishments and contributions of America’s chief executives.
The History of Presidents’ Day
In the United States, Presidents’ Day is celebrated on the third Monday in February in honor of George Washington, the first U.S. president. The day also honors Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president. Washington’s Birthday was originally celebrated on February 22nd, but after the Uniform Monday Holiday Act was passed in 1971, it was moved to the third Monday in February.
The history of Presidents’ Day began long before Washington was born. The Continental Congress declared a national day of thanksgiving and praise on October 3rd, 1789 to commemorate the ratification of the Constitution and to give thanks for “the signal Deliverances and Blessings” that had been bestowed upon America up to that point. On November 1st of that year, they also set aside a day to celebrate George Washington’s birthday. This holiday became known as “Washington’s Birthday” and was celebrated on various days throughout the years until it finally became a federal holiday in 1885.
Over time, Washington’s Birthday began to be celebrated more as a tribute to the man himself rather than as a day of thanksgiving. In 1800, Congress moved to have all public buildings illuminated with candles on his birthday and five years later, they commissioned a statue of him from French sculptor Jean-Antoine Houdon (which can now be seen at Mount Vernon). In 1889, President Benjamin Harrison called for a national celebration of Washington’s Birthday and by 1890, all 38 states were observing the holiday. It wasn’t
Presidents’ Day Traditions
In the United States, Presidents’ Day is celebrated on the third Monday in February in honor of George Washington, the first president of the United States. The day is also a federal holiday, which means that many government offices and schools are closed.
There are many traditions that have developed over the years to celebrate Presidents’ Day. One popular tradition is to hold parades in cities across the country. These parades usually feature floats, marching bands, and costumed characters from American history. Another tradition is to visit presidential libraries and museums. These institutions offer a great way to learn more about the presidents and their impact on American history.
Finally, many people use Presidents’ Day as an opportunity to reflect on the office of the presidency and what it means for America. This can be done by discussing politics with friends and family or by attending events that discuss presidential history and policies. No matter how you choose to celebrate Presidents’ Day, it is a day to remember the men who have served as leaders of our country.
Fun facts about Presidents’ Day
1. Presidents’ Day is a federal holiday in the United States celebrated on the third Monday of February each year.
2. The day honors all past and present Presidents of the United States, including George Washington, the country’s first President.
3. Presidents’ Day was originally established to honor just George Washington, but was later expanded to include all presidents after him.
4. Many schools and businesses are closed on Presidents’ Day each year.
5. Some people use Presidents’ Day as a day to celebrate America’s presidents and its history, while others use it as a day for relaxation or shopping deals.
Conclusion
Presidents’ Day is a day to remember and honor those who have served as President of the United States. While the list of presidents continues to grow each year, the sentiment behind this day remains true: to appreciate and recognize all that our U.S. Presidents have done for our country throughout history. As we look towards February 20, 2023, may we take time to reflect on their legacy and pay tribute to their invaluable contributions in advancing America over the years!
PRESIDENTS’ DAY DATES
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2021 | February 15 | Monday |
| 2022 | February 21 | Monday |
| 2023 | February 20 | Monday |
| 2024 | February 19 | Monday |
| 2025 | February 17 | Monday |
