Courts and government offices shut down for the holiday, but many major retailers remain open.
WASHINGTON — Today is Presidents Day, which celebrates George Washington, and other former presidents throughout U.S. history.
Because it’s a federal holiday, many government offices and other institutions are closed until Tuesday.
Here’s what you need to know.
When and why do we celebrate Presidents Day?
Presidents Day started as a celebration of George Washington’s Feb. 22 birthday — and officially, the federal government still calls the holiday Washington’s Birthday.
So why is the holiday on the 17th this year, and why do we celebrate other presidents? The U.S. Embassy says Congress fixed the Feb. 22 holiday to make it fall on the third Monday of February each year starting in 1971, creating a long weekend.
Celebrations grew to include Lincoln, who also had a mid-February birthday, and other presidents from throughout U.S. history. Some states celebrate the holiday as “Washington and Lincoln’s Birthday,” while others — and most Americans — call it Presidents Day.
What’s closed on Presidents Day?
Presidents Day is a federal holiday, so courts, government offices, and most public libraries will be closed.
The post office will also be closed and there will be no USPS mail deliveries.
Many public schools are closed on Presidents Day, but not all. Some districts will use it to make up for school days missed due to weather or other issues. You can check your school’s online calendar or social media feeds to be sure.
Some local businesses also choose to close for Presidents Day, so it’s worth checking websites or calling ahead before you make a trip.
What’s open on Presidents Day?
While USPS is closed on Presidents Day, shipping companies like UPS, FedEx, and Amazon will still be operating.
Most retail stores and restaurants are also open. You can expect Walmart, Target, Costco, Kroger, Walmart and other stores to operate as usual, with many major chains offering Presidents Day sales.
