Presidents Day 2025: What’s Open, What’s Closed, and Why We Celebrate

Corporate Desk: Presidents Day  is a federal holiday that offers many Americans a much-needed three-day weekend in the middle of February. But what exactly is Presidents Day, why do we celebrate it, and what can you expect to be open or closed on this day? Here’s everything you need to know about Presidents Day 2025.

 

When is Presidents Day 2025?

Presidents Day falls on Monday, February 17, 2025. It is observed annually on the third Monday of February as part of the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, which was enacted in 1971 to create more three-day weekends for federal employees.

 

What is Presidents Day?

Originally established to honor George Washington, the first U.S. president, Presidents Day is officially still called Washington’s Birthday on federal calendars. Washington was born on  February 22, 1732, according to the Gregorian calendar (though his birthdate was originally recorded as February 11, 1731, under the Julian calendar).

Over time, the holiday expanded to include recognition of Abraham Lincoln, whose birthday is February 12, and eventually all U.S. presidents. The holiday’s position between these two birthdays led to its popular name, Presidents Day.

 

Why Do We Celebrate Presidents Day?

Presidents Day was created to honor the contributions of past U.S. presidents, particularly George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. It became a federal holiday in 1885, initially celebrated on February 22. In 1971, the Uniform Monday Holiday Act moved the observance to the third Monday in February to provide more consistent long weekends for federal workers.

 

What’s Open and Closed on Presidents Day 2025?

 

Closed on Presidents Day

– Post Offices: The U.S. Postal Service will not deliver mail, and post offices will be closed.
– Banks: Most banks follow the Federal Reserve’s holiday schedule and will be closed.
– Stock and Bond Markets: The NYSE, Nasdaq, and bond markets will be closed.

Trading resumes on Tuesday, February 18.
– Government Offices: Nonessential federal and state government offices will be closed.
– Schools: Most schools will be closed, though some districts may use the day as a makeup day for weather-related closures.

Open on Presidents Day

– Retail Stores: Most retail and grocery stores will remain open, often offering Presidents Day sales on items like electronics, furniture, and mattresses.

– UPS and FedEx:

– UPS will operate on a full schedule, and UPS Store locations will be open.
– FedEx will offer modified services, such as early pickups and drop-box pickups in some areas.
– ATMs and Online Banking : While physical bank branches may be closed, ATMs and online banking services will remain available.

 

Is the Stock Market Open on Presidents Day?

No, the stock market is closed on Presidents Day. The NYSE, Nasdaq, and bond markets will all be closed on Monday, February 17, and will reopen on Tuesday, February 18.

 

Who Gets the Day Off on Presidents Day?

– Federal Employees: All nonessential federal workers have the day off.
– State and Local Government Employees: Most state and local government offices will also be closed.
– Private Sector Employees: Whether private businesses close or remain open depends on the employer. Many businesses, especially retail stores, stay open and may even offer holiday promotions.

 

Presidents Day Sales

Presidents Day is known for its holiday sales, making it a great time to shop for discounts on:
– Electronics
– Furniture
– Mattresses
– Appliances
– Winter clothing

 

Presidents Day is more than just a day off—it’s a time to reflect on the leadership and legacy of U.S. presidents, particularly George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. Whether you’re enjoying a three-day weekend, shopping for deals, or simply relaxing, take a moment to appreciate the history behind this federal holiday.

Corporatenews24/GNS