Presidents’ Day: Honoring the Leaders of the United States
Presidents’ Day is a federal holiday in the United States that’s celebrated on the third Monday of February every year. Originally created to honor George Washington’s birthday, the holiday has evolved over time to recognize all U.S. presidents, past and present.
History of Presidents’ Day
George Washington was born on February 22, 1732, and his birthday was first celebrated as a federal holiday in 1879. However, in 1968, the Uniform Monday Holiday Act moved the holiday to the third Monday in February to give federal employees a three-day weekend. This change also led to the holiday being referred to as Presidents’ Day, rather than just Washington’s Birthday.
How Presidents’ Day is Celebrated
Today, Presidents’ Day is celebrated with parades, ceremonies, and reenactments of historical events. Many businesses, schools, and government offices are closed on this day, giving people a chance to relax and enjoy quality time with family and friends. Some states also celebrate the holiday with unique events, such as the annual George Washington Birthday parade in Alexandria, Virginia.
Traditions and Commercialism
Presidents’ Day is also associated with several traditions, including cherry pie, which is said to be one of George Washington’s favorite desserts. In recent years, the holiday has become a major shopping event, with many retailers offering deep discounts on big-ticket items. This commercialization of the holiday has led some to criticize the way Presidents’ Day is celebrated, arguing that it’s lost its original meaning and purpose.
Dates and Observance
Presidents’ Day is observed on the third Monday of February every year, which can fall between February 15 and 21. Some states and cities may observe the holiday on different dates or with different names, such as Washington’s Birthday or Presidents’ Day. Regardless of the date or name, the holiday remains an important opportunity to reflect on the history and leadership of the United States.
Presidential Facts and Trivia
In celebration of Presidents’ Day, here are some interesting facts and trivia about U.S. presidents:
- George Washington’s teeth were not made of wood, as is often claimed. Instead, he had several sets of false teeth made of ivory, human teeth, and metal.
- Thomas Jefferson was a skilled architect and designed many buildings, including his home, Monticello.
- Theodore Roosevelt was a prolific writer and correspondent, writing over 150,000 letters during his lifetime.
- Franklin D. Roosevelt was the only U.S. president to serve more than two terms, serving an unprecedented four terms from 1933 to 1945.
As the United States celebrates Presidents’ Day, it’s a time to reflect on the leadership and legacy of its presidents, from George Washington to the present day.
