Presidents Day was on Monday, Feb. 19, this year. Presidents Day is a national holiday, meaning all schools and federal offices close in observance.
The holiday honors George Washington’s birthday, which falls on the third Monday of February. Some argue that the holiday also originates from Abraham Lincoln’s birthday on Feb. 12.
Most states recognize the holiday as Washington’s Birthday rather than Presidents Day, as that was its original purpose and designation.
“To me, Presidents Day is a day to celebrate all the presidents we have had and show them our respect for their dedication to our country,” said Stacey Perrien, a Tracy resident.
Presidents Day honors those who have led the country. It has been celebrated since 1879, but the current observance date was established in 1971.
“I’ve never done anything to celebrate Presidents Day, but I’ve always acknowledged the holiday as something important,” said Lexis Barton, a Stockton resident.
To celebrate Presidents Day, many people choose to learn about the presidents and their accomplishments.
“I usually like to learn about what each president did for our country on Presidents Day,” said Evelyn Trujillo, a freshman at Tracy High School.
Recognizing both current and former presidents on Presidents Day is a way to show respect for their leadership and contributions to the country.
