What is Presidents Day 2023?
Presidents Day is a federal holiday honoring the presidents of the United States, both past and present. Celebrated as an official state holiday in the majority of the United States, Presidents Day originated as a day of commemoration for the first president, George Washington. However, in the 20th century, the event became a day of recognition for all presidents of the United States, including the current 46th president of the United States, Joe Biden.
When is Presidents Day 2023?
Presidents Day is held on the third Monday in February. In 2023, the event falls on Monday, February 20th.
What is the history of Presidents Day?
Presidents Day originated in 1879 as a day to honor President George Washington in the district of Washington, D.C. In 1885, this event expanded across the country, with all federal offices recognizing the holiday. Nearly 100 years later, in 1951, the Presidents Day National Committee was formed to choose a day of commemoration for all presidents. Initially, the date of March 4 was selected, as this was the date of the first presidential inauguration. However, the committee later settled on a date in February to be closer to George Washington’s birthday. Finally, in 1971, it was decided that the holiday would take place on the third Monday in February, and the holiday has been celebrated that way ever since.
What happens on Presidents Day?
Presidents Day is a federal holiday, meaning that public services such as the U.S. Postal Service will close, as well as schools and some public offices. Nevertheless, communities come together to celebrate with parades across the country. Some cities like Alexandra, Virginia (George Washington’s home city) even host month-long celebrations. Other locations hold festivals and special events like the annual “GeorgeFest” in Eustis, Florida. Many stores and businesses also offer memorable Presidents Day discounts to customers on this holiday. And we can’t forget the most delicious part of this day – the cherry pie! Cherry pie is traditionally eaten every Presidents Day due to the legendary story of George Washington chopping down a cherry tree.
How can I teach Presidents Day to my class?
Teaching your class about Presidents Day can be an opportunity to dive deeper into American history and learn about the pioneering presidents that have shaped the United States. Below are some top tips we highly recommend:
- Explore the history of Presidents Day with your class, starting with learning about the first-ever president, George Washington.
- Assign each student a different president, then ask them to complete a home learning project about them.
- Have your class write a letter to the president explaining what changes they want to see.
- Stage a mock election and choose a class president to oversee your day!
- Our favorite tip? Why not have a cherry pie tasting with your class? It would make a delicious twist on the holiday fun!
