Presidents Day

3rd Monday in February

Until the mid 70s, the national holiday was February 22, the birthday of the Revolutionary War hero and first president of the United States, George Washington. In addition, the 12th February was recognized in most states as the birthday of Abraham Lincoln, who was the president during the Civil War. Subsequently, these two holidays were combined and are now celebrated as one holiday that is the feast of all former Presidents. The holiday was moved to the third Monday in February. There had been an attempt to change the name of the day as 'President Day' in 1968 as mark of honor for the two great presidents of America George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. But the Congress only passed the Monday Holidays Act that shifted the day from February 22 to the third Monday in February.

Some section of people feel that Abraham Lincoln, who was the president during the turmoil of civil war should also get due recognition. But others opine that it would dilute the importance of the first president in the history of the country. While this debate didn't led to any official resolution, in the 1980, there was a renaissance in the thinking and approach and the day was started to be widely referred as the 'Presidents Day'. This could be traced to the acceptance of the day as the 'Presidents Day' in place of Washington's Birthday as advertisers, calendars and even some government agencies refer it that way. In fact, this has made an indelible mark in the psyche of the public mind and hence gained widespread acceptance. The numerous attempts to change the name officially has not got much acceptance nevertheless, it has gained popularity.  

Earlier, like all other state holidays, the business establishments were closed. But in since last twenty years, the business goes on the day. In fact, there has been a surge of business on that day and corporate houses view it as a time to boost their business. They extend special discounts and sales

Now-a-days, even classes go on regularly in educational institutions. Important services like the postal services go with their jobs. Many schools close for the week due to the ‘mid-winter recesses. But the real significance of the day lies in a tribute to the men, who shaped the country's future and heralded the renaissance of a culture and tradition, which is unparalleled in the history of mankind.