Presidents’ Day, also known as Washington’s Birthday, is a United States federal holiday held on the third Monday of February each year. Presidents’ Day in 2025 falls on Monday, February 17. The holiday honors all U.S. presidents, particularly George Washington, the nation’s first president. It was created in 1885 to celebrate Washington’s birthday on February 22 and was later shifted to the third Monday in February to give workers a three-day weekend.
Presidents’ Day has, over the years, turned from a day of commemoration to a big shopping extravaganza. Washington himself did not make much of his birthday, and there are few accounts of celebrations during his lifetime. Following his death, a memorabilia market opened up, mixing consumerism and remembrance. Officially, the holiday was Washington’s Birthday for federal workers in 1879. In the late 1960s, the Uniform Monday Holiday Act shifted the celebration to the third Monday in February to boost retail sales and travel. Presidents’ Day is now celebrated with a range of events, such as sales, parades, and educational programs, that reflect its evolution as a day to honor all U.S. presidents and their service to the country.
What’s Open and Closed Presidents’ Day 2025
On Presidents’ Day, observed on the third Monday of February each year, various businesses and services operate differently. Here’s a general overview:
Closed:
- Federal and State Government Offices
- Banks
- Stock Markets
- Public Schools
- Public Libraries
- Post Offices
Open:
- Retail Stores and Grocery Stores
- Restaurants
- Private Mail and Delivery Services
Please note that operations can vary by location and individual business policies. It’s advisable to check with specific establishments for their hours of operation on Presidents’ Day.