17 February marks an important federal holiday in the United States. Although it is generally known as the day of the presidents, Washington's official name is Washington's birthday, in honor of the first president of the nation, George Washington. In the course of time, the holiday has evolved to record recognition of other American presidents, in particular Abraham Lincoln, whose birthday is on 12 February. Today 24 states celebrate the holiday as a president day, while others recognize it as the birthday of Washington or a combination of both.
As a federal holiday, many government offices, schools and banks are closed today. However, private companies and public transport usually work on a regular schedule.
What is closed:
- Stock Markets: Nasdaq and New York Stock Exchange
- Banks: Most physical branches (except TD Bank)
- Government offices: non -less federal, national and local offices (by means of town halls, court buildings, libraries)
- The Postal Service of the United States
- American bond markets
What is open:
- Retailers: Walmart, Target, Kroger, Costco and most Big-Box stores
- TD Bank -branches
- UPS will work normally, and FedEx will be open with adapted service
- Shopping centers, supermarkets, restaurants and eateries
History of the day of the presidents
Presidents' Day has a rich history dating from 1796 when Americans started celebrating George Washington's birthday on 22 February. However, it was only in 1879 that the congress adopted a law that made a federal vacation on 22 February.
Initially the holiday was celebrated on Washington's actual birthday, but in 1968 the Congress approved the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, which moved the holiday to the third Monday in February. This change has been made to give federal employees a three -day weekend and to reduce the absence of employees.
In the course of time this led to a broader recognition of all American presidents, and the holiday became informally known as President's Day. Today the Washington, Lincoln, and all the way past the American presidents honors.
