Countdown to Presidents' Day

Presidents' Day is a United States federal holiday that honors the nation's presidents, most notably George Washington, the first president of the United States. Officially still titled Washington's Birthday in federal law, the day has grown in popular use to celebrate all who have held the office. The countdown above shows exactly how many days remain until the next Presidents' Day.

Falling in the heart of February, Presidents' Day has become associated with a long weekend, retail sales, and civic reflection on American leadership and history. Many use the holiday to learn about the lives of Washington, Abraham Lincoln, and other figures who shaped the country.

When is Presidents' Day?

Presidents' Day is observed on the third Monday of February each year. Because it is tied to a Monday rather than a fixed date, it never lands on Washington's actual birthday of February 22, and the exact day changes annually. Watch the days tick down with the countdown above, and use the date duration calculator to measure the time between Presidents' Day and another date. The business days calculator helps with scheduling around the holiday.

History and origins

The holiday began as a celebration of George Washington's birthday and was first recognized as a federal holiday in 1879. In 1971, the Uniform Monday Holiday Act moved the observance to the third Monday of February to create a dependable long weekend. Although the federal name remains Washington's Birthday, the popular term Presidents' Day spread widely, encouraging recognition of Lincoln and other presidents.

How Presidents' Day is observed

• Reflecting on the lives and legacies of US presidents.
• Visiting historical sites, monuments, and museums.
• Attending patriotic ceremonies and educational events.
• Enjoying a federal day off and a three-day weekend.
• Taking advantage of widely advertised retail sales.

Frequently asked questions about Presidents' Day

When is Presidents' Day?

It falls on the third Monday of February each year, so the exact date changes annually and never lands on February 22.

What is the official name of Presidents' Day?

In federal law the holiday is still officially called Washington's Birthday, even though Presidents' Day is the common name.

Which presidents does the day honor?

It primarily honors George Washington, but in popular use it celebrates all US presidents, often including Abraham Lincoln.

Why is Presidents' Day always on a Monday?

The Uniform Monday Holiday Act of 1971 fixed it to the third Monday of February to create a consistent long weekend.

Is Presidents' Day a federal holiday?

Yes. It is a federal holiday, so federal offices and many schools and businesses are closed.