Presidents Day

Is It a Day Off? What's Open and Closed on Presidents Day 2025

Presidents Day is almost here, and with a traffic volume (buzz) of around 50,000 searches related to the holiday, it's clear Americans are wondering: what's open, what's closed, and what exactly are we celebrating? Officially observed on the third Monday of February, Presidents Day 2025 falls on February 17th. Let's break down what you need to know about this federal holiday.

Presidents Day 2025: A Quick Overview

Presidents Day, officially Washington's Birthday, has evolved into a day to honor all U.S. presidents. While many celebrate with a three-day weekend, not everything shuts down. Here's a look at what you can expect:

• Federal Holiday: Yes, Presidents Day is a federal holiday.
• Date: Monday, February 17, 2025.
• Honoring: Officially George Washington, but commonly all U.S. presidents.

Recent Updates: What's Open and Closed

Based on verified news reports, here's a breakdown of what's generally open and closed on Presidents Day:

• Schools: In Florida, whether schools are open varies by county. According to Tallahassee.com, schools will be in session for students in seven Florida counties. Check your local school district for specific information.
• Stock Market: The stock market is closed on Presidents Day, according to Today.com. This means the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and other major financial markets will be closed for trading.
• Banks: Most banks are closed on Presidents Day. Plan your banking needs accordingly.
• Government Offices: Federal, state, and local government offices are typically closed. This includes the post office, so don't expect mail delivery.
• Retail Stores: Most retail stores, including grocery stores like Publix (in Florida), are generally open on Presidents Day, according to Tallahassee.com. However, it's always a good idea to check with your local store for specific hours.

Contextual Background: From Washington's Birthday to Presidents Day

The history of Presidents Day is rooted in honoring George Washington, the first President of the United States. Originally established in 1879 as Washington's Birthday, the holiday was intended to celebrate his birth on February 22nd.

Over time, the holiday's purpose expanded. In 1968, Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, which shifted several federal holidays to Mondays, creating more three-day weekends for workers. This act moved Washington's Birthday to the third Monday in February.

While the official name remained Washington's Birthday, the proximity to Abraham Lincoln's birthday on February 12th led to the popular adoption of the name "Presidents Day." Lincoln, arguably the second most celebrated president, also has ties to the month of February.

Today, Presidents Day is widely understood as a day to honor all past presidents of the United States. However, this shift hasn't been without its critics. As the Associated Press (AP) reports, some feel the "confusing mishmash of ideas" has diluted the original intent of honoring Washington. Hunter Abell, a state legislator from Washington state, expressed a desire for the holiday to return to solely celebrating Washington.

Immediate Effects: A Day of Sales and Reflection

Presidents Day has evolved into a significant retail holiday. Many stores offer special sales and promotions, making it a popular time for consumers to shop for everything from appliances to clothing.

Beyond the commercial aspect, Presidents Day also provides an opportunity for reflection on the leadership and legacy of past presidents. Schools often hold special events and educational activities to teach students about the history of the presidency.

However, the holiday is not without controversy. As reported, protests are sometimes organized on Presidents Day, highlighting various social and political issues. The 50501 Movement, for example, has organized demonstrations in major cities.

Future Outlook: The Enduring Significance of Presidents Day

Presidents Day is likely to remain a fixture on the American calendar. While debates about its name and purpose may continue, the holiday serves as a reminder of the importance of leadership and civic engagement.

Looking ahead, here are some potential trends and implications:

• Continued Retail Growth: Expect Presidents Day sales to remain a major draw for shoppers. Retailers will likely continue to offer deep discounts and promotions.
• Increased Civic Engagement: The holiday may increasingly be used as a platform for political activism and social commentary.
• Evolving Educational Focus: Schools may continue to adapt their curriculum to reflect the changing understanding of Presidents Day, incorporating discussions about the complexities of American history and leadership.
• Debate on Holiday's Meaning: The discussion about whether to return the holiday to its original focus on George Washington or maintain its broader scope honoring all presidents is likely to persist.

What's the deal with the name?

The official name of the holiday, as designated by the federal government, is still "Washington's Birthday." However, the widespread use of "Presidents Day" reflects a broader cultural understanding and acceptance.

Interesting Facts About Presidents Day:

• Not all states celebrate the same presidents: Some states, like Arkansas, officially celebrate both George Washington and Daisy Gatson Bates, a civil rights leader.
• Abraham Lincoln's birthday is not a federal holiday: Despite being one of the most revered presidents, Lincoln's birthday is not a federal holiday, although many states observe it.
• The largest presidential bust: South Dakota's Mount Rushmore is the largest presidential bust in the world, featuring the faces of George Washington, Thomas Jefferson, Theodore Roosevelt, and Abraham Lincoln.

Conclusion: A Day to Remember

Presidents Day is more than just a day off from work or school. It's a time to reflect on the history of the United States, the leaders who have shaped the nation, and the values that underpin American democracy. Whether you're taking advantage of the holiday sales, attending a community event, or simply spending time with family, remember the significance of this day and the legacy of the presidents who have served the country. So, while you're enjoying your day off, remember the historical significance intertwined with this holiday.