Washington’s birthday is more commonly referred to as Presidents Day and is dedicated to honoring George Washington, the first president of the United States. It is considered to be the first public holiday declared specifically to celebrate the life and accomplishments of one individual. Schools often dedicate classwork to George Washington around the time of his birthday to teach them the importance of Washington’s contributions to the formation of the United States.
The U.S. Senate has a long standing tradition to read George Washington’s Farewell Address every year in observance of his birthday. This tradition first started in 1862 and is still being practiced.
Since 1971, the public holiday has been observed on the third Monday in February however Washington’s actual birthday was February 22, 1732. Because the observed date of his birthday is now set for the third Monday in February, it is impossible for the holiday to ever fall on Washington’s actual birthday! The latest possible date for the public holiday is February 21.
-Robin Swank
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