Every year on the third Monday in February, people across the United States celebrate Presidents Day, a federal holiday that honors the nation’s leaders. The holiday originally recognized George Washington’s birthday but has come to include other presidents as well.

Presidents Day began as a way to celebrate George Washington, the first president of the United States. Washington’s birthday is February 22, but the holiday is observed on the third Monday in February each year. Over time, many people began using the day to recognize not just Washington, but other presidents like Abraham Lincoln, whose birthday is February 12.

Today, people celebrate Presidents Day in different ways. Some visit historical sites related to American presidents, while others take part in educational activities to learn more about U.S. history and leadership.

Students also have their own thoughts about the holiday. Eva Munoz said she doesn’t personally celebrate Presidents Day, but she still believes it is important to honor the president. When asked about the holiday’s official name still being Washington’s Birthday instead of president’s day, she said she thinks it makes more sense to celebrate all presidents together instead of just one.

Evie Bates shared a similar opinion. When asked if it was fair for George Washington to share his holiday with other presidents, she said that all presidents deserve recognition because they each did something important during their time in office.

Even though the holiday started as a celebration of one president, Presidents Day has grown into a time for Americans to remember and recognize the leadership and contributions of all U.S. presidents.