PRESIDENT'S DAY

President's Day federal holiday is celebrated on the third Monday in February. The holiday commemorates all the former US presidents' achievements and sacrifices. Interestingly, the day is celebrated on the same day as George Washington's birthday. The holiday is also celebrated a day after Abraham Lincoln's birth date. In the early 19th century, the day was acknowledged as a fasting and prayer day. People would offer prayers to God and ask for protection over their president.

Is it President's Day or Presidents' Day?

The day celebrates all the presidents of the United States. Therefore, the right name for this holiday is Presidents' Day.

Which Are The Alternative Names Of Presidents' Day?

Some states celebrate the day under a different name other than the Presidents' Day. These names include George Washington's Day, Washington and Lincoln Day and President's Day.

Which States Do Not Observe The Presidents' Day?

The US states that do not celebrate the Presidents' Day are Florida, Lowa, Kentucky, Delaware, Louisiana, Rhode Island, Kansas, and North Carolina.

Presidents' Day History

The history of the Presidents' Day holiday dates back in 1800 after the death of George Washington. People celebrated his birthday on February 22 as a way to remember the first president in American history. In 1879, Washington's Birthday was signed into law as a federal holiday.

In 1971, the Uniform Monday Holiday Act shifted the day to be celebrated on the third Monday of February every year. The day also changed its name to Presidents' Day as a way to commemorate all the presidents of the United States.

Presidents' Day Traditions

Presidents' Day is a time of patriotic remembrance. Before the holiday was declared as a day to celebrate all the presidents of the United States, portraits of George Washington would grace the front pages of newspapers every February 22nd.

Today, Presidents' Day is marked by staged celebrations and reenactments. Some states require teachers of public schools to teach students about the accomplishments of former US presidents, mostly focusing on the lives of Washington and Lincoln.

Why Do We Celebrate President's Day?

We observe the holiday to honor the present and past presidents of the United States for making the country the land it is today.

How to Celebrate Presidents' Day

Americans mark this day by engaging in various activities. You can visit Mt. Vernon, VA, where Washington's ancestral home and tomb lies. On Presidents' Day, entry to the place is often free of charge.

If you adore Abraham Lincoln, you should consider visiting his memorial in Washington, DC.

If you love reading, you might find it satisfying to read George Washington's Farewell Address and reflecting on his contributions to the country. Another great read you can reflect on is Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation. If you'd rather stay indoors, watch the 1988 Tommy Lee Jones film, which relates to Washington's war troops.

Presidents' Day Activities for Kids

For kids, the day is often marked with festivals and decorations. Children use masks of the past presidents to commemorate the day. You can also make Presidents' Day T-shirts with the kids since they are out of school on that day. If your kids love books, read them a book by Margaret McNamara that tells of myths, truths, and a funny story about Washington's 7th birthday. To crown the day, go shopping with the kids and take advantage of the Presidents' Day Sales.

What Food to Eat On Presidents' Day?

George Washington loved nuts and fish. He was also fond of cherries, and Cherry Bounce was his favorite drink. President John Adams adored Madeira wine. Consider inviting your family and friends over for the Presidents' Day weekend and observe the day by including some of those foods into your menu. Most American households celebrate the holiday by ensuring their meals have a recipe of cherries.