Washington's Birthday

Designated to honor the life and work of the first president of the United States, George Washington, "Washington's Birthday" (actually on Feb. 22) is celebrated on the third Monday of February. Americans have been celebrating Washington's Birthday* since the late 18th century--while he was still president, though it was not adopted as an official federal holiday until 1885. At that same time many states outside of the old Confederacy celebrated Lincoln’s birthday (Feb. 12). Contrary to popular opinion, movements to re-name the holiday “Presidents Day” in honor of both great presidents has never been approved by Congress. However, the misconception was further perpetuated in 1968 when legislators passed the Monday Holiday Act, which moved the official observance of Washington’s Birthday to its official designation (the third Monday in February). Though technically inaccurate, many calendars in schools, planners, and even government publications list the day as “Presidents Day.” Those in favor of officially changing…