President's Day

President's Day Facts

• Although it falls on the third Monday of February, George Washington's birthday is supposed to be celebrated on this holiday.
• According to the Julian calendar, Washington was born February 11, 1732.  The Gregorian calendar was adopted in 1752, changing Washington's birthday to February 22.
• Since 1888, Washington's Farewell Address has been read aloud in the U.S. Senate on February 22nd.
• George Washington was the Commander in Chief of the Continental Army, first U.S. President, and President of the Constitutional Convention.
• Presidents Day never falls on Washington's actual birthdate (Feb. 22).  The third Monday in February can never be any later than February 21st.

President's Day Top Events and Things to Do

• Visit Mt. Vernon, VA, Washington's ancestral home and place of both he and his wife Martha's tomb.  Admission is free on President's Day.
• Go shopping for a car.  Presidents day weekend typically features some of the best car deals of the year as dealers try to clear out prior-year inventory.
• Read George Washington's Farewell Address and reflect on his contributions to United States.
• Read Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation and reflect on his contributions to the United States.
• Visit the Lincoln Memorial in Washington D.C.

President's Day References and Related Sites