Presidents Day 2024; A Time to Honor U.S. Presidents and Enjoy a Long Weekend

2025-03-02

Presidents Day, celebrated on the third Monday of February, is a federal holiday honoring the birthdays of George Washington and Abraham Lincoln, as well as other U.S. presidents. This year, the holiday falls on February 19, creating a long weekend for many Americans.

In central Ohio, most public schools, including Columbus City Schools, Pickerington Schools, South-Western City Schools, Hilliard City Schools, and Olentangy Schools, will be closed on February 17 in observance of Presidents Day. Delaware City Schools will also be closed on February 17, with an additional day off on February 18 for a teacher in-service day. Families are encouraged to check their school district’s academic calendar for specific details.

The holiday originated as a celebration of George Washington’s February 22 birthday, but in 1971, Congress moved the observance to the third Monday of February to create a consistent long weekend. Over time, the holiday expanded to include Abraham Lincoln, whose birthday is also in mid-February, and other U.S. presidents. While the federal government still officially refers to the holiday as Washington’s Birthday, many states and individuals commonly call it Presidents Day.

The day off provides an opportunity for students, families, and staff to reflect on the contributions of the nation’s leaders and enjoy a break from the usual routine.

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Presidents Day started as a celebration of George Washington's Feb. 22 birthday.