Today is Presidents Day!
The federal holiday, officially known as Washington’s Birthday, was created to honor George Washington, the country’s first president. Congress established the observance in 1879, scheduling it to coincide closely with Washington’s birthday on February 22.
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It’s celebrated on the third Monday in February, which falls on Monday, Feb. 16, this year.
Over time, many people have also used the day to recognize Abraham Lincoln, whose birthday is February 12, and it is also widely viewed as a tribute to all U.S. presidents.
Because it’s a federal holiday, places like banks and government offices are closed today.
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However, a federal holiday does not automatically mean all workers across the country get the day off. Employers determine their own policies, including whether to give workers time off or offer extra compensation for working on those days.
Federal holidays and 2026 dates
Here’s a full list of 2026 federal holidays, according to the U.S. Office of Personnel Management:
- New Year’s Day: Thursday, Jan. 1
- Birthday of Martin Luther King, Jr.: Monday, Jan. 19
- Washington’s Birthday: Monday, Feb. 16
- Memorial Day: Monday, May 25
- Juneteenth National Independence Day: Friday, June 19
- Independence Day: Friday, July 3
- Labor Day: Monday, Sept. 7
- Columbus Day: Monday, Oct.12
- Veterans Day: Wednesday, Nov. 11
- Thanksgiving Day: Thursday, Nov. 26
- Christmas Day: Friday, Dec. 25
When a U.S. federal holiday falls on a weekend, the government follows an “observed holiday” schedule to ensure federal employees still receive a day off.
If a holiday falls on a weekend, it’s typically observed on the nearest weekday.
For example, this year, Independence Day falls on a Saturday, so it’s observed on Friday, July 3.
These rules apply to federal government offices and employees. State governments, banks, schools and employers often follow the same schedule, but they are not required to do so and may set their own policies.