Presidents’ Day is a federal holiday in the United States that honors the achievements and legacy of the nation’s presidents. It is celebrated on the third Monday of February, which falls on or near the birthdays of George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. On Presidents’ Day, some businesses and services are open, while others are closed. Here is a guide to help you plan your day and know what to expect.
Understanding Presidents Day
- History of the holiday: Presidents’ Day was originally established in 1885 as a celebration of George Washington’s birthday, which was on February 22. In 1971, the holiday was moved to the third Monday of February as part of the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, which created more three-day weekends for federal workers. The name Presidents’ Day was popularized by retailers who used it to promote sales on various items. Some states still officially observe Washington’s Birthday, while others recognize Lincoln’s Birthday, or both, or other presidents as well.
- Why it is celebrated: Presidents’ Day is a tribute to the leaders who shaped the history and identity of the United States. It is a time to reflect on the values and principles that the presidents embodied and defended. It is also a day to appreciate the diversity and complexity of the American presidency, as each president faced different challenges and opportunities in their era.
What is Open on Presidents Day
- Financial services: Most stock markets, such as the New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq, are closed on Presidents’ Day. However, some online brokers and cryptocurrency exchanges may operate as usual. Check with your provider before making any transactions.
- Retail stores: Many retail stores are open on Presidents’ Day and offer discounts and deals on various products, such as clothing, electronics, furniture, and appliances. Some of the major retailers that are open include Walmart, Target, Best Buy, Macy’s, and Kohl’s. However, some stores may have reduced hours or vary by location, so it is best to call ahead or check online before you go.
- Public transportation: Most public transportation systems, such as buses, subways, and trains, are open on Presidents’ Day, but may run on a reduced or weekend schedule. Check with your local transit authority for the latest information and plan your trip accordingly.
- Restaurants: Most restaurants are open on Presidents’ Day, but some may have special menus or hours. You can use apps like Yelp or OpenTable to find and book a table at your favorite place, or try something new. You may also find some deals and discounts on food delivery services like Uber Eats or DoorDash.
What is Closed on Presidents Day
- Government offices and agencies: All federal, state, and local government offices and agencies are closed on Presidents’ Day, except for essential services like law enforcement, fire, and emergency. This means that you cannot access services like the post office, the DMV, the IRS, or the Social Security Administration. You may also encounter some delays or disruptions in mail delivery, passport processing, tax filing, or benefit payments.
- Banks: Most banks and credit unions are closed on Presidents’ Day, as it is a bank holiday. This means that you cannot visit a branch or use an ATM that is located inside a branch. However, you can still use online banking, mobile banking, or ATMs that are outside of branches. You may also be able to access some services at grocery stores, gas stations, or convenience stores that have partnerships with banks.
- Postal services: The United States Postal Service (USPS) does not deliver mail on Presidents’ Day, except for Priority Mail Express and some Amazon packages. Other mail carriers, such as FedEx and UPS, may operate normally or have modified services. Check with your carrier for the specific details and tracking information of your package.
- Schools: Most public and private schools are closed on Presidents’ Day, as it is a school holiday. However, some schools may have different calendars or schedules, so check with your school district or institution for confirmation. Some colleges and universities may also be closed or have reduced classes.
Planning Your Day
- Information on specific store and business hours: If you want to shop, dine, or use any service on Presidents’ Day, it is advisable to check the hours and availability of the store or business before you go. You can use websites like Google Maps or Yelp to find the contact information and opening hours of any place. You can also call or visit the official website of the store or business to confirm their status and policies.
- Alternative activities to do on Presidents’ Day: If you want to do something more than shopping or eating on Presidents’ Day, you can explore some of the cultural and historical attractions that are related to the presidents. For example, you can visit a presidential library, museum, or monument, such as the Lincoln Memorial, the Washington Monument, or the Mount Rushmore National Memorial. You can also watch a documentary, read a biography, or listen to a podcast about the presidents and their lives. You can also engage in some civic activities, such as volunteering, donating, or signing a petition for a cause that you care about.
- Tips for navigating holiday closures and traffic: If you plan to travel or commute on Presidents’ Day, you should be aware of the potential closures and traffic that may affect your journey. You can use apps like Waze or Google Maps to get real-time traffic updates and directions. You can also check the weather forecast and road conditions before you leave. You should also allow extra time and be flexible with your plans, as you may encounter some delays or detours.
Conclusion
Presidents’ Day is a federal holiday that celebrates the achievements and legacy of the U.S. presidents. It is also a day that affects the operations and availability of many businesses and services. By knowing what is open and closed on Presidents’ Day, you can plan your day accordingly and enjoy the holiday.
