February 2026 Calendar Holiday List

Your Ultimate Guide to February 2026 Holidays in the USA: Plan Ahead!

February, the shortest month of the year, might seem quiet, but don’t let its brevity fool you. In 2026, this compact month is packed with significant federal holidays, important cultural observances, and opportunities for planning. Whether you’re strategizing a long weekend getaway, managing business operations, or simply want to stay informed, getting a clear picture of February 2026‘s holiday landscape is crucial.

Forget scrambling last minute or missing out on key dates. This isn’t just a list; it’s your definitive guide to every important day in February 2026, complete with insights into their impact on your work, travel, and personal life. Let’s dive in and ensure your February 2026 is perfectly planned!

February 2026 at a Glance: Key Dates for Your Calendar

Before we break down each holiday in detail, here’s a quick overview of the most significant dates in February 2026. This snapshot will help you grasp the rhythm of the month and identify potential long weekends and key cultural moments right away.

Date	Day	Holiday / Observance	Type	Key Impact / Significance
Feb 1	Sunday	National Freedom Day	Commemorative	Observance of the 13th Amendment; kick-off for Black History Month.
Feb 2	Monday	Groundhog Day	Cultural	Folklore tradition for predicting spring.
Feb 9	Monday	National Pizza Day	Fun/Food	A day to celebrate America’s favorite comfort food.
Feb 12	Thursday	Lincoln’s Birthday	Commemorative	Honors Abraham Lincoln; some states observe as a holiday.
Feb 13	Friday	Galentine’s Day	Cultural	A day for celebrating female friendships.
Feb 14	Saturday	Valentine’s Day	Cultural	A day of romance and affection.
Feb 16	Monday	Washington’s Birthday (Presidents’ Day)	Federal Holiday	Federal offices, banks, USPS closed. Many schools & businesses observe. Creates a long weekend.
Feb 17	Tuesday	Mardi Gras (Fat Tuesday)	Religious/Cultural	Day of feasting before Lent; major celebrations in some regions.
Feb 17	Tuesday	Lunar New Year (Year of the Fire Horse)	Cultural	Celebrated by East Asian communities globally.
Feb 18	Wednesday	Ash Wednesday	Religious	Marks the beginning of the Lenten season for Christians.
Throughout Feb	All Month	Black History Month	Commemorative	Celebrates African American history and contributions.
Throughout Feb	All Month	LGBT History Month (UK, but often recognized)	Commemorative	Raises awareness of LGBT history and civil rights.

Federal Holidays in February 2026: Impact on Your Week

Federal holidays are the big ones when it comes to planning. These are days designated by the U.S. government, which typically means federal offices, the U.S. Postal Service (USPS), and many banks will be closed. Stock markets may also be affected. Understanding these dates is key for financial transactions, mail delivery, and government services.

Washington’s Birthday (Presidents’ Day): Monday, February 16, 2026

The only federal holiday in February is Washington’s Birthday, commonly known as Presidents’ Day. Observed on the third Monday of February, in 2026, it falls on Monday, February 16.

Originally established in 1879 to celebrate George Washington’s birthday, the holiday’s official name remains Washington’s Birthday. However, the Uniform Monday Holiday Act of 1971 shifted its observance to a Monday and, over time, it became colloquially known as Presidents’ Day. This broader name often leads people to believe it celebrates both Washington and Abraham Lincoln (whose birthday is February 12th) – and indeed, many states and businesses *do use it to honor all U.S. presidents.

• Impact on Federal Services: Expect federal government offices, including the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and passport agencies, to be closed.
• Banking: Most banks will be closed for the day. Plan your transactions accordingly.
• Mail Service: No regular mail delivery or pickup by the USPS. FedEx and UPS typically operate with modified services, but it’s best to check their specific holiday schedules.
• Schools: Many public and private schools observe Presidents’ Day, often incorporating it into a longer winter break.
• Businesses: While not all private businesses close, many do, especially those tied to the financial sector or government contracts. Retail stores, however, often remain open and use the holiday as an opportunity for sales.

The biggest takeaway here? It’s a three-day weekend for many! This makes Presidents’ Day weekend a popular time for short trips, ski vacations, or simply relaxing at home.

Beyond Presidents’ Day: Federal Observances & Designations

While Washington’s Birthday is the sole paid* federal holiday in February, the month also holds significant national designations. For example, Black History Month is officially recognized by the U.S. government, encouraging reflection and celebration of African American contributions, though it doesn’t lead to closures.

Major Cultural & Religious Observances in February 2026

February is far more than just a federal holiday. It’s a tapestry of diverse cultural traditions, historical commemorations, and religious milestones. These observances shape our communities, offer opportunities for reflection, and often inspire local events and celebrations. Understanding them enriches your entire month.

Groundhog Day: Monday, February 2, 2026

Kicking off the month, Groundhog Day is a whimsical tradition observed annually on February 2nd. Originating from German folklore, the tradition involves a groundhog emerging from its burrow. If it sees its shadow, legend has it there will be six more weeks of winter; if not, an early spring is predicted. Punxsutawney Phil in Pennsylvania is the most famous prognosticator, drawing crowds and media attention. It’s a fun, lighthearted way to gauge the winter’s end.

Black History Month: February 1 – 28, 2026

Observed annually throughout the entire month of February, Black History Month is a vital recognition of the contributions, struggles, and achievements of African Americans. It began as ‘Negro History Week’ in 1926 by historian Carter G. Woodson and was officially recognized as Black History Month in 1976. This is a time for education, reflection, and celebration of Black culture and heritage, impacting everything from school curricula to national discussions. Look for local events, lectures, and exhibits in your community.

Valentine’s Day: Saturday, February 14, 2026

Love is in the air on Valentine’s Day, falling on Saturday, February 14th in 2026. This popular cultural observance is dedicated to expressing affection, often with gifts, cards, flowers, and romantic dinners. While not a public holiday, businesses like florists, restaurants, and chocolate shops experience a significant surge in activity. Since it’s on a Saturday in 2026, it offers a full day to celebrate without work interruptions for many.

Mardi Gras (Fat Tuesday): Tuesday, February 17, 2026

Get ready for some revelry! Mardi Gras, also known as Fat Tuesday, falls on Tuesday, February 17, 2026. This festive day marks the final hurrah before Ash Wednesday and the start of Lent, a period of fasting and reflection for Christians. Famous for its parades, elaborate costumes, and indulgence, especially in New Orleans, it’s a vibrant cultural event. While a major holiday in certain regions (like Louisiana), it’s generally a regular workday across most of the U.S.

Lunar New Year (Chinese New Year): Tuesday, February 17, 2026 (Year of the Fire Horse)

Interestingly, Lunar New Year, which ushers in the Year of the Fire Horse, also falls on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, sharing the date with Mardi Gras! This significant cultural holiday is celebrated by East Asian communities worldwide, including a large and vibrant population in the United States. It’s a time for family reunions, elaborate feasts, gift-giving (often red envelopes with money), and vibrant decorations. While not a public holiday in the U.S., it’s a major time of celebration and cultural significance that may see some businesses and community centers adjust hours.

Ash Wednesday: Wednesday, February 18, 2026

Following Mardi Gras, Ash Wednesday on Wednesday, February 18, 2026, marks the solemn beginning of Lent for many Christians. On this day, worshippers receive ashes on their foreheads as a symbol of repentance and mortality. While a deeply significant religious observance, it does not typically result in closures of businesses or schools. Many churches hold special services.

Other Notable Dates & Daily Celebrations

February is rich with other observances that, while not holidays, add flavor to the month:

• February 1 (Sunday): National Freedom Day – Commemorates the signing of the 13th Amendment abolishing slavery.
• February 12 (Thursday): Lincoln’s Birthday – Honors Abraham Lincoln. While not a federal holiday, some states observe it, and it’s widely recognized.
• February 13 (Friday): Galentine’s Day – A modern, unofficial celebration of female friendships, popularized by the TV show ‘Parks and Recreation.’
• Throughout February: LGBT History Month – Often celebrated in the UK in February, but also recognized by some organizations and communities in the US to highlight LGBT history.
• February 9 (Monday): National Pizza Day – A fun, unofficial day to indulge in pizza!

Your Comprehensive February 2026 Holiday Calendar (USA)

Here’s the full breakdown, month-wide, of all significant holidays and observances in February 2026 for the United States. Use this table as your go-to reference for planning and understanding the impact of each day.

Date	Day	Holiday / Observance	Type	Description / Significance & Impact
Feb 1	Sunday	National Freedom Day	Commemorative	Honors the signing of the 13th Amendment (abolishing slavery). Not a public holiday, but recognized nationally. Also marks the start of Black History Month.
Feb 2	Monday	Groundhog Day	Cultural Tradition	Folklore event where a groundhog predicts the end of winter. No closures.
Feb 9	Monday	National Pizza Day	Fun/Food	An unofficial day for pizza lovers to enjoy their favorite meal. No closures.
Feb 12	Thursday	Lincoln’s Birthday	Commemorative / State Holiday	Honors Abraham Lincoln’s birthday. Not a federal holiday, but some states (e.g., Illinois, California) observe it. Check local schedules for closures.
Feb 13	Friday	Galentine’s Day	Cultural (Pop Culture)	A modern, unofficial day to celebrate friendships, particularly among women. No closures.
Feb 14	Saturday	Valentine’s Day	Cultural	A popular day for expressing love and affection, often with gifts and special outings. No closures.
Feb 16	Monday	Washington’s Birthday (Presidents’ Day)	Federal Holiday	Official federal holiday honoring George Washington. Federal government offices, banks, and USPS closed. Many schools & businesses observe, creating a three-day weekend.
Feb 17	Tuesday	Mardi Gras (Fat Tuesday)	Religious/Cultural	Day of feasting and celebration before the start of Lent. A legal holiday in some parts of Louisiana; otherwise, regular business day.
Feb 17	Tuesday	Lunar New Year (Year of the Fire Horse)	Cultural	Celebrated by East Asian communities. Marks the start of a new lunar cycle. No public closures, but significant community celebrations.
Feb 18	Wednesday	Ash Wednesday	Religious	Marks the beginning of the Lenten season for Christians. No closures, but special church services.
Feb 20	Friday	National Love Your Pet Day	Fun/Observance	A day to show extra affection to your furry, feathered, or scaled companions. No closures.
Throughout Feb	All Month	Black History Month	Commemorative	Annual celebration of African American history and achievements. Promotes education and recognition. No closures.
Throughout Feb	All Month	LGBT History Month (UK, but recognized)	Commemorative	Raises awareness of LGBT history and civil rights movements. No closures.

Practical Planning Tips for February 2026

Knowing the dates is one thing; putting that knowledge into action is another. Here’s how you can leverage February 2026’s holiday schedule to your advantage, ensuring smooth sailing through the shortest month.

Smart Travel & Long Weekend Strategies

The Presidents’ Day long weekend (February 14-16) is your prime opportunity for a short getaway. If you’re planning to travel, especially to popular destinations like ski resorts or warmer climates, here’s what to keep in mind:

• Book Early: Accommodation and flights tend to sell out quickly and prices can spike. Secure your plans well in advance.
• Expect Crowds: This is a popular travel weekend. Be prepared for busier airports, roads, and attractions.
• Consider Alternatives: If major destinations are too pricey or crowded, look for hidden gems or local experiences that might be less impacted.

Navigating Financial & Business Deadlines

The federal holiday on February 16th impacts a significant part of the U.S. economy. For businesses and individuals, this means:

• Banking & Payments: Direct deposits, wire transfers, and checks may be delayed by one business day. Plan payroll and bill payments accordingly.
• Stock Market: U.S. stock markets (NYSE, NASDAQ) typically close on federal holidays. Check specific exchange calendars if you trade.
• Government Services: Any dealings with federal agencies, from tax inquiries to permit applications, will be paused. Factor this into your timelines.

Family & Educational Planning

Schools often align with federal holidays, so:

• School Breaks: Many school districts schedule a winter break around Presidents’ Day. Confirm your children’s school calendar early. This could be a great time for family activities or quiet time at home.
• Cultural Learning: Use Black History Month as an opportunity to engage your family in educational activities, visit museums, or read books that celebrate African American history.

Embracing Cultural Celebrations

February’s diverse observances offer unique ways to engage:

• Mardi Gras: Even if you’re not in New Orleans, many cities have local celebrations or restaurants offering special menus.
• Lunar New Year: Explore local Chinatowns or Asian cultural centers for parades, lion dances, and special events. It’s a fantastic way to experience vibrant traditions.
• Valentine’s Day: Whether it’s a grand gesture or a simple, heartfelt note, plan how you want to celebrate your loved ones.

Key Insights & What Makes February Unique in 2026

February 2026 is a standard 28-day month (no leap year!). Its key defining feature is the Presidents’ Day long weekend, offering a welcome break in the middle of winter. The confluence of Mardi Gras and Lunar New Year on the same day (February 17th) is a unique calendar quirk that highlights the diverse cultural tapestry of the U.S. Beyond these, the ongoing observance of Black History Month provides a consistent theme of education and remembrance throughout the entire month. It’s a month that, despite its length, truly offers something for everyone to plan around.

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Final Thoughts: Your February 2026, Perfectly Planned

February 2026, while short, clearly holds a rich array of dates that can impact your personal and professional life. By understanding the federal holidays, major cultural events, and other key observances, you’re not just looking at a calendar – you’re building a strategy. Whether it’s securing that long weekend getaway, ensuring your business operations run smoothly, or simply engaging with meaningful cultural celebrations, advance planning is your superpower.

So go ahead, mark those dates, make those reservations, and embrace a February 2026 that’s not just observed, but truly experienced and enjoyed, thanks to your proactive planning!

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Washington’s Birthday (Presidents’ Day) a federal holiday in February 2026?

Yes, Washington’s Birthday, commonly known as Presidents’ Day, is a federal holiday observed on Monday, February 16, 2026. This means federal government offices, banks, and the U.S. Postal Service will be closed.

Are banks closed on Presidents’ Day 2026?

Yes, most banks in the United States will be closed on Monday, February 16, 2026, in observance of Presidents’ Day. Plan any financial transactions accordingly.

What are the major cultural observances in February 2026?

February 2026 includes several major cultural observances such as Groundhog Day (Feb 2), Black History Month (all month), Valentine’s Day (Feb 14), Mardi Gras (Feb 17), and Lunar New Year (Feb 17). Ash Wednesday, a significant religious observance, is on February 18.

How many days are in February 2026?

February 2026 has 28 days. It is not a leap year, so it maintains its standard length.

Is Valentine’s Day a public holiday in the USA?

No, Valentine’s Day (February 14) is not a public or federal holiday in the USA. It is a widely celebrated cultural observance, but businesses, schools, and government offices operate as usual.

When does Black History Month take place?

Black History Month is observed annually throughout the entire month of February, from February 1st to February 28th, 2026. It is a dedicated time to celebrate African American history and achievements.

What is the significance of Ash Wednesday in February 2026?

Ash Wednesday, falling on February 18, 2026, marks the beginning of the Lenten season for many Christians. It is a day of repentance and reflection, often observed with special church services, but it is not a public holiday.