Each year, Americans mark George Washington’s birthday on the third Monday in February. In 2026, the observance falls on Monday, February 16.
The holiday was originally established to honor Washington, the nation’s first president. His birthday was designated a federal holiday in 1885. After the Uniform Monday Holiday Act took effect in 1971, the celebration gradually became known as Presidents’ Day, reflecting a broader tribute to all U.S. presidents.
Despite the widespread use of the newer name, the federal government still officially recognizes the day as Washington’s Birthday.
What’s closed on 16 February 2026?
On Presidents’ Day, a federal holiday observed on February 16 in 2026, government offices will be closed.
Most major banks also shut their doors, as they typically follow the Federal Reserve holiday schedule. Institutions such as Bank of America, Wells Fargo, JPMorgan, Chase, Citibank and others will not operate in person, although ATMs and online banking services will remain available. Interbank transfers will resume on the next business day.
The United States Postal Service will not deliver mail or open its branches, but private carriers like DHL, FedEx and UPS will continue operating. The stock market, schools and libraries are generally closed, while most supermarkets, restaurants and pharmacies stay open.
Is the stock market open on Presidents Day?
The New York Stock Exchange will be closed on Feb. 16, 2025 in observance of this federal holiday. The Nasdaq Stock Market will also be closed.
All US federal holidays in 2026
From New Year’s Day to Christmas Day, the United States has 11 federal holidays, with Juneteenth being the most recently added. Here is the complete list of official holidays in 2026:
| Holiday | Date |
|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | Thursday, January 1 |
| Martin Luther King Jr. Day | Monday, January 19 |
| Washington’s Birthday (Presidents’ Day) | Monday, February 16 |
| Memorial Day | Monday, May 25 |
| Juneteenth National Independence Day | Thursday, June 19 |
| Independence Day | Friday, July 4 |
| Labor Day | Monday, September 7 |
| Columbus Day / Indigenous Peoples’ Day | Monday, October 12 |
| Veterans Day | Wednesday, November 11 |
| Thanksgiving Day | Thursday, November 26 |
| Christmas Day | Friday, December 25 |
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