United States

Is Presidents Day a Federal Holiday

Published 25/08/2026 Updated 25/08/2026

Clear guidance on is presidents day a federal holiday, with practical planning notes for time off and public holidays.

Quick answer

Yes. The federal holiday commonly called Presidents Day is officially named Washington’s Birthday. In 2027, it falls on Monday, 15 February 2027. “Presidents Day” is widely used by states, employers, retailers and the public, but the federal government officially calls the holiday Washington’s Birthday.

What this means

Washington’s Birthday is a U.S. federal holiday observed on the third Monday in February. In 2027, that date is Monday, 15 February. The official federal name is Washington’s Birthday, while “Presidents Day” or “Presidents’ Day” may appear on state, local, school, employer and commercial calendars.

  • Federal offices generally observe Washington’s Birthday.
  • Federal employees covered by the holiday schedule receive the federal holiday according to their work schedule.
  • Private employers decide whether to provide the day as paid leave.
  • Schools, childcare providers, banks and local services follow their own calendars.

Common scenarios

You are checking your work schedule. Look at your employer’s holiday policy or staff calendar. A federal holiday does not automatically mean every private-sector employee receives paid time off.

You are arranging a long weekend. If your workplace observes Monday, 15 February 2027, the holiday creates a three-day weekend. You can request adjacent annual leave for a longer break, subject to approval.

You need a federal service. Federal offices generally observe Washington’s Birthday. Check the relevant agency before planning an in-person visit.

How to plan this in Offdays

Label 15 February 2027 clearly in your holiday calendar, for example “Washington’s Birthday (commonly Presidents Day).” Keep the holiday separate from annual leave and review requests around the three-day weekend early.

Final thoughts

The U.S. federal holiday commonly called Presidents Day is officially Washington’s Birthday. In 2027, it falls on Monday, 15 February 2027. Private employers, schools and local services follow their own policies and calendars.

Sources

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