While nowadays it is often seen as a day off of school or work, Presidents' Day was originally established to recognize President George Washington.

Following Washington's death in 1799, Americans began using his February 22 birthday as a day of remembrance for their first president. The day remained unofficially observed by most Americans until it was signed into law by President Rutherford B. Hayes in 1879.

After 1971, the federal holiday became more widely known as Presidents' Day, once it was moved to the third Monday of February; this came after the passing of the Uniform Holiday Act which attempted to create additional three-day weekends for American workers.

A handful of states still celebrate Presidents' birthdays, like Abraham Lincoln, on their original days but nationally Presidents' Day is intended to honor all presidents past and present.

Presidents' Day lands on February 16 this year and will impact some local offices and services. All federal, state and local government offices will be closed, including the U.S. Postal Service so mail will not be delivered. The New York Stock Exchange and most major banks will also be closed. Most grocery and retail stores, along with restaurants, will be open but some may observe different hours. Public schools will also not be in attendance in observance of the federal holiday.

WHAT IS CLOSED MONDAY:

  • U.S.P.S (no mail service)
  • Federal, state and local government offices
  • Most major banks and the New York Stock Exchange
  • Public schools