Presidents Day is a United States federal holiday celebrated on the third Monday of February. Also known as Washington’s Birthday, it is celebrated in 2010 on Monday, February 15. An official federal holiday, most government offices and buildings are closed on President’s Day with a few exceptions.
Schools and libraries are typically closed but most retail businesses stay open for what is usually a big sale day.
Most states have the same government and school closings. However, not all will follow the same rules on Presidents Day. It’s always a good idea to check your local paper or state website for an accurate list of closings.
Mail Delivery: President’s Day is a Federal holiday so there will be no mail delivery in the United States. All U.S. Post Offices are closed on Monday, February 15, 2010.
Schools: Public schools are closed on President’s Day but there may be some exceptions when it comes to private schools.
Businesses: Washington’s Birthday, better known as Presidents Day, is a big sale day for most businesses. The automobile business markets this as a big day to save if you are looking for a new or used car. Most retailers are open normal business hours with holiday discounts for shoppers looking for a bargain.
Here is what is open and closed on Presidents Day in Rhode Island and nearby Massachusetts:
Presidents Day Facts
In Alabama, the third Monday in February commemorates the birthdays of both George Washington and Thomas Jefferson.
In Arkansas, the third Monday in February is “George Washington’s Birthday and Daisy Gatson Bates Day,” an official state holiday.
In New Mexico, Presidents Day, at least as a state government paid holiday, is observed on the Friday following Thanksgiving.
In 2007, the country celebrated both Washington’s 275th birthday and the 75th anniversary of the rebirth of the Purple Heart medal.
Since 1862, there has been a tradition in the United States Senate that George Washington’s Farewell Address be read on his birthday. Citizens had asked that this be done in light of the approaching Civil War. The annual tradition continues with the reading of the address on or near Washington’s Birthday.(examiner.com)
