Presidents' Day 2018: What it is and Why US Observes a Holiday Today

Washington, Feb 19: The entire United States establishment, along with private enterprises, schools and other institutions remained close today to observe the Presidents' Day. Both federal and provincial governments have declared the day as an official holiday. President Donald Trump on Monday wished the nation on Twitter saying, "Have a great, but very reflective, President’s Day! (sic)."

What is the Presidents' Day and Why US Observes a Holiday Today?

The US celebrates an annual holiday every third Monday of February to pay tribute to the country's most revered presidents - George Washington and Abraham Lincoln - both of their birth anniversaries being observed in this month.

While Washington was born on February 22, 1772, Lincoln's date of birth was recorded as February 12, 1809.

However, not all provincial governments - especially in southern US - pay homage to Lincoln as well. Others, meanwhile, also pay homage to Republican icon and late president Ronald Reagan - who was born on February 6, 1911.

President's Day, Presidents' Day or Presidents Day?

Nebraska, New Hampshire, Tennessee, West Virginia, Alaska, Idaho, Maryland, Massachusetts and Wyoming observe the day as 'President's Day' - paying homage to only the first president George Washington. In these states, the day is also referred to as Washington Day.

New Mexico, North Dakota, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, South Dakota, Oklahoma, Texas, Vermont and Washington observe it as 'Presidents' Day' - paying homage to both Washington and Lincoln.

Meanwhile, states of Nevada, New Jersey, and Oregon observe it as Presidents Day, recalling the contributions of the three presidents who were born in the month of February - Lincoln, Reagan and Washington.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Feb 19, 2018 10:11 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).