Us Public Holidays February 2026

US Public Holidays in February 2026: Your Definitive Guide to Federal & Observed Dates

Wondering if you’ll catch a break in February 2026? You’re in the right place. February is often a shorter month, and when it comes to official federal holidays in the United States, it’s pretty straightforward. In 2026, there’s just one federally recognized public holiday that might mean a long weekend or a day off for many across the nation.

Let’s cut right to it: The only federal holiday observed in February 2026 is Washington’s Birthday, commonly known as President’s Day. It falls on Monday, February 16, 2026. This guide will clarify exactly what that means for you, delve into other popular observances, and help you plan your month effectively.

The Sole Federal Holiday in February 2026: Washington’s Birthday (President’s Day)

When you’re looking for an official day off, federal holidays are the ones that matter most. For February 2026, all eyes are on one specific date.

When is Washington’s Birthday in 2026?

Mark your calendars! In 2026, the federal observance of Washington’s Birthday takes place on:

Holiday Name	Date	Day of Week
Washington’s Birthday (President’s Day)	February 16, 2026	Monday

This holiday always falls on the third Monday of February, ensuring a convenient three-day weekend for those who observe it. While officially named Washington’s Birthday, it’s widely known as President’s Day and is often seen as a day to honor all U.S. presidents, though its origins are firmly rooted in celebrating George Washington.

What Does a Federal Holiday Mean for You?

Understanding the implications of a federal holiday is crucial for planning your month. Here’s a breakdown:

• Federal Employees: If you work for the federal government, you almost certainly have the day off with pay. This includes employees of federal agencies, the U.S. Postal Service, and many other government branches.
• Banks: Most federally regulated banks and financial institutions will be closed. This means no in-person banking services, though ATMs, online banking, and mobile apps usually remain operational. Transactions initiated on this day may not process until the next business day.
• U.S. Postal Service (USPS): There will be no mail delivery, and post offices will be closed. Plan accordingly if you have urgent mailing needs.
• Stock Markets: The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and NASDAQ typically observe federal holidays, so trading will be closed.
• Schools: Many public schools and some universities will close for President’s Day, often providing a long weekend for students and staff. Private schools may vary.
• Private Sector Businesses: This is where it gets a bit more varied. While some private companies choose to observe federal holidays and give their employees the day off, many others do not. Check with your employer’s holiday schedule to be sure. Retail stores, restaurants, and other service industries are often open, and some even capitalize on the long weekend with sales events.

Essentially, a federal holiday impacts government services and regulated industries most directly. For the rest of us, it depends on individual employer policies.

A Brief History: Why We Celebrate Washington’s Birthday

The observance of Washington’s Birthday has a rich history. It was first officially recognized as a federal holiday in 1879 for government offices in the District of Columbia and expanded to all federal employees in 1885. Originally, it was celebrated on George Washington’s actual birthday, February 22.

However, the celebration shifted as a result of the Uniform Monday Holiday Act of 1971. This act moved several federal holidays to specific Mondays to create more three-day weekends, with the intention of boosting retail sales and travel. Washington’s Birthday was moved to the third Monday in February. Because this date always falls between February 15th and February 21st, it never actually lands on Washington’s exact birthday or Abraham Lincoln’s (February 12th).

Over time, commercial interests and some state governments began promoting the holiday as “President’s Day” to honor both Washington and Lincoln, whose birthdays are in February, and eventually all U.S. presidents. While the official federal name remains “Washington’s Birthday,” the popular “President’s Day” moniker has stuck, especially in retail and local observances.

Federal Holidays Across the Year: A Quick Look at 2026

While we’re focusing on February, it’s helpful to see where Washington’s Birthday fits into the full calendar of federal holidays for 2026. This gives you a broader picture for future planning.

Holiday Name	Date in 2026	Day of Week
New Year’s Day	January 1, 2026	Thursday
Martin Luther King, Jr.’s Birthday	January 19, 2026	Monday
Washington’s Birthday	February 16, 2026	Monday
Memorial Day	May 25, 2026	Monday
Juneteenth National Independence Day	June 19, 2026	Friday
Independence Day	July 4, 2026	Saturday (observed July 3)
Labor Day	September 7, 2026	Monday
Columbus Day	October 12, 2026	Monday
Veterans Day	November 11, 2026	Wednesday
Thanksgiving Day	November 26, 2026	Thursday
Christmas Day	December 25, 2026	Friday

Remember that when a federal holiday falls on a weekend, it is typically observed on the closest weekday. For Independence Day in 2026, which is a Saturday, the federal observance will shift to Friday, July 3rd. This means many federal employees and bank customers will get a long weekend in early July as well.

Beyond Federal: Other Popular Observances in February 2026

February is a month packed with cultural significance and popular celebrations, even if they don’t grant a national day off. It’s a time for reflection, romance, and some quirky traditions!

Key Non-Federal Dates to Remember in February 2026

Here’s a look at some of the other widely recognized and celebrated days in February 2026 that aren’t federal holidays but are definitely part of the month’s fabric:

Observance	Date in 2026	Day of Week	Significance
Black History Month begins	February 1, 2026	Sunday	A national observance celebrating the achievements and contributions of African Americans throughout U.S. history.
Groundhog Day	February 2, 2026	Monday	A tradition where a groundhog predicts the arrival of spring based on whether it sees its shadow.
Lincoln’s Birthday	February 12, 2026	Thursday	Celebrates the birth of Abraham Lincoln, 16th U.S. President. Observed by some states.
Valentine’s Day	February 14, 2026	Saturday	A popular observance for celebrating love and affection.
Ash Wednesday	February 18, 2026	Wednesday	Marks the first day of Lent for many Western Christian denominations.

This isn’t an exhaustive list of every single awareness day or niche celebration, but it covers the widely recognized observances that you’re likely to encounter or participate in during February.

Do These Observances Mean a Day Off?

Generally, no. Unless you work for a specific state government or a private employer that has a unique policy (for instance, some Illinois state employees might get Lincoln’s Birthday off), these observances do not typically result in a paid day off from work. They are cultural, traditional, or religious dates meant for personal observance.

That means February 2nd (Groundhog Day) will be a regular workday for most. Valentine’s Day falls on a Saturday in 2026, so it won’t impact your work week, but expect to see plenty of related promotions and celebrations.

Planning Your February 2026: What to Expect

Knowing the holiday schedule is half the battle. Now, let’s talk about how this translates into your daily life and planning for the month.

Impact on Businesses and Services

On Monday, February 16, 2026 (Washington’s Birthday), you can confidently expect:

• Government Offices: Federal, state, and many local government offices will be closed. If you have errands that require a visit to the DMV, court, or other public services, plan for another day.
• Post Office & Mail: No regular mail delivery, and post offices will be shut. Priority Mail Express will still be delivered.
• Banks: Most physical bank branches will be closed. Digital services will be available, but transactions may be delayed.
• Schools: Many public and some private schools will be closed. Check your local school district’s calendar.
• Retail Stores & Restaurants: These typically operate as usual, and often with extended hours or special sales for the long weekend. Don’t expect closures here.
• Public Transportation: Most public transit systems will run on a holiday schedule, which often means reduced service. Check your local transit authority for specific schedules.

For the rest of February, particularly around non-federal observances like Valentine’s Day, business operations will remain normal. The impact will be more on societal traditions and commercial promotions.

Making the Most of the Long Weekend (If Applicable)

If you’re among the fortunate who get Washington’s Birthday off, Monday, February 16, 2026, presents a fantastic opportunity for a three-day weekend. Here are a few ideas:

• Travel: It’s a popular weekend for short getaways, especially to ski resorts, warm weather destinations, or cities for cultural experiences. Expect higher travel costs and crowds.
• Shopping: President’s Day is synonymous with sales, particularly for big-ticket items like mattresses, furniture, and appliances. If you’ve been eyeing a major purchase, this is often a good time to buy.
• Local Events: Many communities host events, parades, or historical reenactments related to President’s Day. Check local listings for activities in your area.
• Rest & Recharge: Sometimes, the best way to utilize a day off is simply to relax, spend time with family and friends, or catch up on personal projects.

Whether you’re planning a trip, looking for a bargain, or simply enjoying a quiet day at home, knowing when the holidays fall allows you to maximize your time.

So there you have it: February 2026 brings one federal holiday, Washington’s Birthday (President’s Day), ensuring a long weekend for many. Beyond that, the month is rich with cultural observances that, while not days off, add to the unique character of February. Plan smart, and make the most of your month!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a federal holiday in February 2026?

Yes, there is one federal holiday in February 2026: Washington’s Birthday, also widely known as President’s Day. It is observed on Monday, February 16, 2026.

What is Washington’s Birthday (President’s Day) in 2026?

Washington’s Birthday is a federal holiday celebrating the birth of George Washington. In 2026, it falls on Monday, February 16th. While officially named Washington’s Birthday, it’s often colloquially referred to as President’s Day, honoring all U.S. presidents.

Do banks close on President’s Day 2026?

Yes, most federally regulated banks and financial institutions in the United States will be closed on Monday, February 16, 2026, in observance of Washington’s Birthday (President’s Day). Online banking and ATMs will remain available, but transactions may be delayed.

Will the Post Office deliver mail on February 16, 2026?

No, the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) does not deliver regular mail, and post offices are closed on federal holidays. Therefore, there will be no mail delivery on Monday, February 16, 2026.

What are some other popular observances in February 2026 that are not federal holidays?

February 2026 includes several popular observances that are not federal holidays, such as Black History Month (starts February 1), Groundhog Day (February 2), Lincoln’s Birthday (February 12), Valentine’s Day (February 14), and Ash Wednesday (February 18). These are generally not paid days off for most workers.

Is Lincoln’s Birthday a federal holiday in 2026?

No, Lincoln’s Birthday (February 12th) is not a federal holiday in the United States. While some states or local governments may observe it, it does not grant a nationwide day off for federal employees or financial institutions.

Will schools be closed on President’s Day 2026?

Many public schools and some universities typically close for President’s Day, often creating a three-day weekend for students and staff. However, policies can vary, so it’s always best to check with your specific school district or institution for their official calendar.