Presidents Day is a significant staple of patriotism in the United States, second only to Independence Day in its expression of national pride. Celebrated on the third Monday of February, this holiday has evolved from an exclusive celebration of George Washington’s birthday to a broader recognition of all 46 U.S. Presidents.
What started with a focus on the first president has become an emblematic patriotic holiday, replete with weekend-long sales, cultural festivities, and an extended break for many federal employees. This transformation raises questions about how the holiday began and why it has become synonymous with commemoration and commerce.
The Beginnings
The roots of Presidents Day trace back to 1879, originating as Washington’s Birthday, with its federal recognition established by President Rutherford B. Hayes. Initially, it was set aside to honor George Washington, the nation’s first president, and was celebrated only in Washington, D.C. It wasn’t long before the holiday gained national status in 1885, marking it as the first federal holiday to honor an individual American’s contributions.
Over time, due to the Uniform Holiday Bill signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson in 1968, the celebration merged with Abraham Lincoln’s birthday to honor both leaders. However, commercial interests have played a part in shaping the holiday’s current form, leveraging the long weekend to launch widespread sales and promotions, thereby diluting its solemnity with commercial fervor.
Modern Day Presidents’ Day
Today, Presidents Day manifests a blend of patriotic celebration and commercial extravaganza. As a federal holiday, it gifts many Americans a long weekend, envisioned by Johnson to encourage exploration and appreciation of the country’s landscapes and landmarks. High-profile destinations like the Washington Monument and Mount Rushmore see an uptick in tourism, manifesting Johnson’s vision.
Despite the chill of February, communities across the nation find unique ways to honor the country’s leaders, ranging from parades and reenactments to educational events, mirroring the holiday’s patriotic core, albeit in quieter, more reflective ways compared to the jubilant celebrations of July.
Beyond the holiday’s federal recognition and cultural festivities, Presidents Day impacts the American landscape, literally. The holiday is a time for reflection on the nation’s history and a reminder of the president’s lasting legacy on the geographical canvas of the United States. From towns, cities, and counties named after Washington, Lincoln, and Jackson to the controversial figures among them, these namesakes signify a complex but enduring reverence for America’s past leaders.
This blend of celebration, commercialization, and commemoration on Presidents Day reflects a multifaceted American identity, revealing the nation’s sentiments towards its history and leaders—past and present.
Presidents Day is a vibrant American culture patchwork encompassing federal rest, historical remembrance, and commercial activity. As we look forward to the upcoming Presidents Day, let’s embrace this opportunity to reflect on the broader significance of the holiday, acknowledge the contributions of all U.S. presidents, and perhaps enjoy some of those sales, too.
