Presidents’ Day 2024: President’s Day is Monday, February 19, 2024! Did you know that the federal holiday is called “Washington’s Birthday”? So why do some states call it Presidents Day?
Is this holiday called Presidents Day or Washington’s Birthday?
Although often referred to as “Presidents’ Day,” the official name of the federal holiday it celebrates is “Washington’s Birthday.”
Neither Congress nor the president decided to change the name of Washington’s birthday holiday to Presidents’ Day. Furthermore, Congress has never declared a national holiday that was binding on all states; Each state has the freedom to determine official holidays. That is why there are some differences in the calendar regarding the date of this party.
So why is Washington’s birthday often called Presidents’ Day?
In a way, calling this holiday “Presidents’ Day” helps us think not only of our first president, but also of our nation’s founding, its values, and what Washington called “the Constitution.”
Parliament of the United Kingdom Founder. “Abraham Lincoln’s birthday is also (Feb. 12), so by calling it Presidents Day, we can also incorporate another famous president into our celebrations.
Today, many calendars mark the third Monday in February as Presidents’ Day, as do many US states. Naturally, the three days of retail sales are known as “Presidents’ Day,” and that language affects the name of the holiday as well.
When is Presidents Day?
President’s Day is celebrated every year on the third Monday of February. In 2024, Presidents’ Day will be celebrated on Monday, February 19.
Presidents’ Day 2024
Monday, February 19, 2024
- Monday, February 17, 2025
- Monday, February 16, 2026
- Monday, February 15, 2027
History of Presidents’ Day
Historically, Americans began celebrating George Washington’s birthday a few months after his death, long before Congress declared it a federal holiday. It wasn’t until 1879, during the administration of President Rutherford B. Hayes, that Washington’s birthday became an official holiday, celebrated on February 22, his birthday.
George Washington, reproduction of a painting by Gilbert Stuart, 1931-1932, RG 148, Archives of the Legislature Committee of the George Washington Bicentennial Commission.
Washington’s birthday was celebrated on February 22 until the early 1900s. In 1968, Congress passed the Monday Holiday Act, which “provides for the uniform observance of certain legal holidays on Mondays in each year.” By establishing more three-day weekends, Congress hoped to “advance great benefits to the spiritual and economic life of the nation.”
Is Presidents Day a federal holiday? Today, George Washington’s birthday is one of eleven permanent federal holidays created by Congress. A great tradition that has been followed for decades is the reading of George Washington’s farewell address by members of the United States Senate during the legislative session, which remains an annual event today.
When is George Washington’s actual birthday?
Although the federal holiday falls on a Monday (the third Monday in February), George Washington’s birthday is on February 22. To complicate matters, Washington was born on February 11, 1731!
How can this be?
George Washington was born during the period when the Julian calendar was used. During Washington’s lifetime, the British and Americans changed their official calendar from the Julian to the Gregorian calendar (most European countries had done so by 1582).
After this calendar reform, people born before 1752 had to add 11 days to their date of birth. Those born between January 1 and March 25, like Washington, must also add a year to align with the new calendar.
When Washington became president in 1789, he celebrated his birthday on February 22 and listed his birth year as 1732.
In short, Washington’s date of birth was changed from February 11, 1731 (old Julian calendar) to February 22, 1732 (new Gregorian calendar).
Celebrate Presidents’ Day 2024: Honoring America’s Leaders
What is Presidents’ Day?
Presidents’ Day, observed on the third Monday of February every year, is a federal holiday in the United States. It is a day to commemorate and honor the past presidents of the country.
The History Behind Presidents’ Day
Originally established in 1885 to honor President George Washington, the holiday was later expanded to include Abraham Lincoln as well. Over time, it has evolved to celebrate all presidents, both past and present.
How is Presidents’ Day Celebrated?
Many Americans view Presidents’ Day as a time to reflect on the contributions of past leaders and the impact they have had on the nation. It is also a popular time for retailers to offer sales and discounts, making it a significant shopping holiday as well.
Presidents’ Day 2024 – What to Expect
As we look ahead to Presidents’ Day 2024, it will be a time to honor the current president and reflect on the leadership of the past. It is a chance to appreciate the resilience and vision of those who have guided the country through its history.
Wrapping Up
Presidents’ Day is more than just a day off work or a chance to snag a good deal at the store. It is a time to honor the leaders who have shaped the nation and to reflect on the qualities that make a great president. So, this Presidents’ Day 2024, take a moment to appreciate the history and significance of the day.
Celebrate Presidents’ Day 2024 in style and make the most of this special holiday!
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