Presidents Day, observed this year on Monday, Feb. 17, is a federal holiday that originally honored George Washington but has since come to recognize all U.S. presidents.
Origins and Evolution of Presidents Day
The holiday traces its roots to Washington’s Birthday, officially established in the late 19th century to commemorate the nation’s first president, George Washington, born on Feb. 22. According to the Library of Congress, Washington’s Birthday remains the holiday’s official designation in U.S. law, as noted by the Office of Personnel Management.
In 1968, the Uniform Holidays Act shifted the observance of Washington’s Birthday to the third Monday of February, ensuring a long weekend for federal employees. The proximity of Abraham Lincoln’s birthday (Feb. 12) contributed to the broader recognition of the day as “Presidents Day,” a term now commonly used to honor all U.S. presidents, according to the National Archives.
What’s Open and Closed in California on Presidents Day?
DMV: All California Department of Motor Vehicles offices will be closed in observance of the holiday.
Schools: School closures vary by district. Major districts such as San Francisco, San Diego, Sacramento, and Long Beach Unified observe the holiday, but parents and students should confirm with their local schools.
Banks: Most banks, including Wells Fargo and Chase, will be closed as they follow the Federal Reserve holiday schedule.
Mail Services: Regular mail delivery will be suspended, except for Holiday Premium Priority Mail Express and Holiday Same Day Package Delivery, according to a U.S. Postal Service memo.
Stock Market: Both the New York Stock Exchange and the Nasdaq will be closed for the holiday.
Presidents Day remains a time to reflect on the nation’s leadership while also serving as a day of closures across various sectors.
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