February 2026 Monthly Calendar With Holidays

Your Essential Guide to the February 2026 Monthly Calendar with Holidays

February: the shortest month, yet often one of the busiest! Between its unique federal holiday, cultural observances, and the countdown to spring, planning your February 2026 effectively can make all the difference. Whether you’re tracking school breaks, anticipating long weekends, or simply organizing your personal schedule, having a clear, comprehensive calendar is your first step to a stress-free month. I get it. You need more than just a grid of dates; you need to know what those dates *mean* for your life. That’s exactly what this guide provides: a detailed look at February 2026, complete with US holidays, important observances, and practical tips to ensure you make the most of every single day.

February 2026 At A Glance: Key Dates & Overview

Let’s kick things off with a quick look at February 2026. This year, February has its usual 28 days (no leap year!), beginning on a Sunday and concluding on a Saturday. This means you’ll have four full weekends to enjoy and plan around. The highlight for many is the Presidents’ Day federal holiday, guaranteeing a welcome three-day weekend. Here’s a snapshot of the month to get you started:

Sunday	Monday	Tuesday	Wednesday	Thursday	Friday	Saturday
1	2 Groundhog Day	3	4	5	6	7
8	9	10	11	12	13	14 Valentine’s Day
15	16 Presidents’ Day (Federal)	17 Mardi Gras	18 Ash Wednesday	19	20	21
22	23	24	25	26	27	28

This simple overview helps you visualize the flow of the month and quickly spot the major days. Now, let’s dive deeper into what these dates signify.

Unpacking February 2026 US Federal Holidays

When we talk about federal holidays, we’re referring to dates recognized by the US government. This often means federal offices, post offices, and banks are closed, and many employees get a paid day off. For February 2026, there’s one significant federal holiday to mark on your calendar:

Presidents’ Day (February 16, 2026)

Observed on the third Monday of February, Presidents’ Day in 2026 falls on Monday, February 16th. Officially, this holiday is still designated as Washington’s Birthday by federal law, commemorating the first U.S. President, George Washington. However, over time, it has evolved into a day to honor all US presidents, with Abraham Lincoln’s birthday (February 12th) also playing a historical role in the holiday’s popular perception. For you, this typically means a long weekend, stretching from Saturday, February 14th, through Monday, February 16th. It’s an excellent opportunity for short trips, family gatherings, or simply a well-deserved break. Expect retail sales, especially on big-ticket items like cars and mattresses, as businesses capitalize on the extended weekend.

Date	Day of Week	Holiday Name	Significance
February 16, 2026	Monday	Presidents’ Day (Washington’s Birthday)	Federal holiday honoring all U.S. presidents, particularly George Washington. Creates a three-day weekend.

Knowing this date well in advance allows you to plan any travel or appointments accordingly, keeping in mind that some services might be limited.

Important Observances & Popular February Dates (Beyond Federal)

February isn’t just about federal holidays; it’s a month rich with cultural, social, and often quirky observances that impact our daily lives and planning. These aren’t typically days off work, but they certainly shape our social calendars and community activities.

Groundhog Day (February 2, 2026)

Starting the month strong, Groundhog Day falls on Monday, February 2nd. This quirky tradition, most famously associated with Punxsutawney Phil, involves a groundhog predicting the arrival of spring. If Phil sees his shadow, expect six more weeks of winter; if not, an early spring is on the way! It’s a fun, lighthearted way to gauge the weather and a cultural touchstone that kicks off February.

Black History Month (Throughout February)

February is annually recognized as Black History Month, a vital observance dedicated to celebrating the achievements, contributions, and central role of African Americans in U.S. history. Schools, communities, and organizations across the nation host events, educational programs, and commemorations throughout the entire month. It’s a powerful time for reflection, learning, and honoring the enduring legacy of Black Americans.

Valentine’s Day (February 14, 2026)

Falling on a Saturday, February 14th in 2026, Valentine’s Day is the quintessential day for expressing love and affection. Whether it’s romantic gestures, celebrating friendships, or showing appreciation for family, this day prompts gift-giving, special dinners, and thoughtful gestures. Since it’s on a weekend, you might find more flexibility for evening plans or daytime activities, but popular restaurants and services will still book up quickly.

Mardi Gras / Fat Tuesday (February 17, 2026)

For many, especially in regions like New Orleans, Mardi Gras (French for ‘Fat Tuesday’) is a vibrant celebration marking the last day of feasting and revelry before the solemn period of Lent begins. In 2026, Mardi Gras is on Tuesday, February 17th. Expect parades, parties, and general festive indulgence, particularly in areas with strong Catholic traditions. It’s a day of exuberant celebration, contrasting sharply with the contemplative period that follows.

Ash Wednesday (February 18, 2026)

The very next day after Mardi Gras, Wednesday, February 18th, marks Ash Wednesday. This day signifies the beginning of Lent, a 40-day period of prayer, fasting, and almsgiving observed by many Christians leading up to Easter. You’ll often see people with ash crosses on their foreheads, symbolizing repentance and mortality. For adherents, it’s a day of spiritual significance and the start of a period of self-reflection and discipline.

Date	Day of Week	Observance/Event	Notes for Your Calendar
February 2, 2026	Monday	Groundhog Day	Traditional prediction of spring’s arrival. Fun cultural event.
Throughout February	All days	Black History Month	Month-long recognition and celebration of African American history and contributions.
February 14, 2026	Saturday	Valentine’s Day	Day of love and affection. Plan gifts, dinners, or special outings.
February 17, 2026	Tuesday	Mardi Gras / Fat Tuesday	Festive celebrations preceding Lent, especially prominent in New Orleans.
February 18, 2026	Wednesday	Ash Wednesday	Beginning of Lent for many Christians. A day of fasting and reflection.
February 22, 2026	Sunday	First Sunday of Lent	For Christians observing Lent, this is the first Sunday of the liturgical season.

This list isn’t exhaustive, as there are many niche and regional observances, but these are the ones most likely to affect your general planning and awareness in the USA for February 2026. Remember to check local school calendars for any mid-winter breaks often scheduled around Presidents’ Day or other local events.

Lunar Cycle & Astronomical Events in February 2026

The moon’s phases can be useful for planning certain activities, from stargazing to understanding natural rhythms. February 2026 presents a full cycle of lunar phases, influencing tides and offering beautiful night sky vistas. Knowing these dates can add another layer to your planning, whether for photography, fishing, or simply appreciating the night sky.

Phase	Date	Day of Week	Approx. Time (EST)
First Quarter	February 4, 2026	Wednesday	11:00 AM
Full Moon	February 12, 2026	Thursday	1:30 AM
Last Quarter	February 20, 2026	Friday	8:45 PM
New Moon	February 27, 2026	Friday	5:15 PM

These moon phases are approximate and can vary slightly based on your exact location, but they give a good general guide for the month.

February’s Unique Character: Birthstones, Flowers & Zodiac Signs

Beyond dates and holidays, February holds unique characteristics that add to its charm and cultural significance. These elements are often used in personal celebrations, gifting, and even self-reflection.

The Birthstone: Amethyst

If you’re born in February, your birthstone is the beautiful Amethyst. This purple variety of quartz is known for its stunning hues, ranging from a light lilac to a deep, rich violet. Historically, amethyst has been associated with royalty, sobriety, and tranquility. It’s believed to bring peace, courage, and stability to its wearer, making it a thoughtful gift for anyone celebrating a February birthday.

February’s Flowers: Violet and Primrose

The flowers associated with February are the Violet and the Primrose.

• Violet: These delicate, often purple flowers symbolize faithfulness, humility, and spiritual wisdom. Gifting violets can convey a message of devotion and sincerity.
• Primrose: Representing youth, lasting love, and new beginnings, primroses (especially those with unique colors) are another beautiful choice for February. They can symbolize the hope and anticipation of spring.

Zodiac Signs: Aquarius and Pisces

February straddles two distinct zodiac signs:

• Aquarius (January 20 – February 18): Individuals born under the sign of Aquarius are often characterized as independent, intellectual, humanitarian, and innovative. They are known for their progressive ideas and desire to make the world a better place.
• Pisces (February 19 – March 20): Those born under Pisces are typically compassionate, artistic, intuitive, and gentle. They are known for their dreamy nature and deep emotional connections.

Understanding these characteristics can offer a fun, personalized touch to birthday celebrations or simply provide insight into the unique personalities born during this month.

Maximizing Your February 2026 Planning: Tips & Tricks

With all this information, how can you effectively leverage your February 2026 calendar for optimal planning? It’s all about being proactive and thoughtful.

Leverage the Long Presidents’ Day Weekend

Since Presidents’ Day creates a three-day weekend, consider how you can best utilize this time. Maybe it’s a short getaway, tackling a home project, or simply enjoying extra family time. Book any travel or accommodations in advance, as popular destinations can fill up.

Plan for Valentine’s Day Early

Valentine’s Day being on a Saturday means you have the whole weekend to celebrate. If you’re planning a special dinner, reservations should be made well in advance. For gifts, consider ordering online early to avoid shipping delays. Handmade cards or experiences can also be thoughtful alternatives to last-minute purchases.

Budgeting and Financial Planning

February often marks the post-holiday spending slump and the beginning of tax season preparations. Take advantage of Presidents’ Day sales for any necessary purchases, but also use the month to review your budget and gather documents for tax filing. It’s a great time to set financial goals for the rest of the year.

Stay Organized: Digital vs. Printable

Decide which calendar format works best for you. Digital calendars offer reminders and sync across devices, while printable calendars provide a tangible, always-visible reference. Many people find a hybrid approach most effective, using digital for daily appointments and a physical calendar for an at-a-glance monthly overview.

Embrace Black History Month

Look for local events, lectures, or museum exhibits that commemorate Black History Month. Engage in learning and reflection, supporting Black-owned businesses, or reading books by Black authors. It’s an opportunity to enrich your understanding and participate in community-wide recognition. Here’s a quick checklist to help you get organized for February 2026:

Task	Suggested Timing	Notes
Mark Presidents’ Day long weekend	Early January	Book travel/accommodations, plan family activities.
Valentine’s Day plans	Late January/Early February	Make dinner reservations, order gifts, plan a special activity.
Review school calendars	January	Check for mid-winter breaks or parent-teacher conference days.
Budget and tax prep	Throughout February	Organize financial documents, review spending.
Plan for Lent (if applicable)	Early February	Consider spiritual goals, fasting practices, or community involvement.
Participate in Black History Month	Throughout February	Attend local events, educate yourself, support relevant initiatives.

By following these tips, you can transform February from a potentially chaotic month into a well-managed and enjoyable one.

Free Printable February 2026 Calendars: Your Options

One of the most popular ways to manage your schedule is with a printable calendar. They offer a tangible, customizable way to keep track of dates, and for many, the act of physically writing down appointments helps solidify them. Plus, they don’t require batteries or an internet connection! Here’s why printable calendars are a fantastic choice and what to look for:

Benefits of Using Printable Calendars

• Visual Overview: A large, printed calendar gives you an immediate, tangible sense of the entire month.
• Customization: You can choose designs that suit your style, from minimalist to decorative. Add your own notes, doodles, and color-coding.
• Accessibility: Stick it on your fridge, pin it to a bulletin board, or keep it in your planner. It’s always there, without digital distractions.
• Offline Reliability: Perfect for zones with limited connectivity or just for taking a break from screens.

Types of Printable Templates

When you’re looking for a February 2026 printable, you’ll find a variety of options to suit different needs:

• Standard Monthly Grid: The classic layout, often with generous space for daily notes.
• With Holidays Pre-marked: Many templates will have federal and sometimes popular observances already highlighted, saving you time.
• Blank Calendars: Ideal if you prefer to fill in every detail yourself or use it for a very specific purpose.
• Vertical vs. Horizontal: Choose the orientation that fits your space or planner best.
• With Notes Section/To-Do Lists: Some designs incorporate dedicated areas for monthly goals, important reminders, or shopping lists.
• Academic/School Year Focused: If you need to track school terms, look for designs that integrate academic cycles.

Tips for Printing and Using Your Calendar

1. Paper Quality: Use slightly heavier paper (e.g., cardstock) if you want it to last or if you’re using markers.
2. Print Settings: Always select “Fit to Page” or “Actual Size” and ensure the correct orientation (portrait/landscape) for your chosen template.
3. Color Coding: Assign different colors to personal appointments, work deadlines, family events, or holidays to make your calendar instantly readable.
4. Accessibility: Place your printed calendar where you’ll see it regularly – a kitchen fridge, desk, or command center.

Finding the right free printable February 2026 calendar means looking for one that not only displays the dates and holidays clearly but also supports your personal organizational style. You can easily find these by searching for “February 2026 printable calendar with holidays” on your preferred search engine.

Conclusion

February 2026, though short, is brimming with opportunities for both rest and productivity. From the federal long weekend of Presidents’ Day to the cultural richness of Black History Month and the anticipation of Valentine’s Day, there’s a lot to plan for. By utilizing a clear calendar and understanding the significance of each date, you can navigate the month with confidence and ease. So go ahead, download or print your preferred February 2026 calendar, mark down these important dates, and get ready to make this month your most organized and enjoyable one yet. Happy planning!

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the major holidays in February 2026?

The main federal holiday in February 2026 is Presidents’ Day, observed on Monday, February 16th. Other significant observances include Groundhog Day (Feb 2), Black History Month (all month), Valentine’s Day (Feb 14), Mardi Gras (Feb 17), and Ash Wednesday (Feb 18).

Is February 2026 a leap year?

No, February 2026 is not a leap year. It will have the standard 28 days. Leap years occur every four years, with the next one being in 2028.

What is Presidents’ Day and when is it in 2026?

Presidents’ Day is a federal holiday honoring all US presidents, officially known as Washington’s Birthday. In 2026, it is observed on Monday, February 16th, creating a three-day weekend for many Americans.

What is the significance of Black History Month in February?

Black History Month, observed annually in February, is a time dedicated to celebrating the achievements, contributions, and central role of African Americans in US history. Communities nationwide host educational programs and commemorations.

What are the moon phases for February 2026?

The moon phases for February 2026 are: First Quarter (Feb 4), Full Moon (Feb 12), Last Quarter (Feb 20), and New Moon (Feb 27).

Where can I find free printable calendars for February 2026?

Many websites offer free printable February 2026 calendars. You can search online for ‘February 2026 printable calendar with holidays’ to find various templates, including those with notes sections, different orientations, and pre-marked holidays.