United States — Historical Events Description

United States flag
United States
Event
Presidents Day Becomes a Federal Holiday
Category
Cultural
Date
1971-02-20
Country
United States
Description

On February 20, 1971, the United States first observed Presidents’ Day under the Uniform Monday Holiday Act. The law moved Washington’s Birthday observance to the third Monday in February to create long weekends for federal employees. While originally honoring George Washington, the holiday gradually came to recognize all U.S. presidents. It reflects American civic tradition and public celebration of leadership and national history.