Presidents’ Day is just around the corner, and while it might seem like just another three-day weekend, it’s worth diving into the story behind this federal holiday. Whether you’re planning to binge-watch documentaries about George Washington or simply enjoy an extra day off in Santa Clara County, there’s more to this day than meets the eye. Let’s break it down—minus the fluff.
The Name Game: Washington’s Birthday or Presidents’ Day?
First things first: what are we actually celebrating? Federally, this holiday is still called Washington’s Birthday. Yes, George Washington—the man who couldn’t tell a lie (allegedly) and whose birthday was originally February 22. But thanks to Congress and the Uniform Monday Holiday Act of 1968, the celebration was moved to the third Monday in February to give workers a long weekend. Over time, many states, including California, started calling it Presidents’ Day, broadening the focus to honor all U.S. presidents.
So, if you’ve been wondering whether this day is about Washington, Lincoln (whose birthday is February 12), or all presidents—it depends on who you ask. In Santa Clara County, most folks just call it Presidents’ Day and enjoy the sales.
Why February? And Why Monday?
Here’s a fun fact: George Washington was actually born on February 11, 1731—at least according to the old Julian calendar. When Britain switched to the Gregorian calendar in 1752, his birthday shifted to February 22. Fast forward a couple of centuries, and Congress decided Mondays were better for holidays. Why? Because three-day weekends are a lot more appealing than random midweek breaks.
The Uniform Monday Holiday Act didn’t just mess with Washington’s birthday. It also moved Memorial Day and Veterans Day (though Veterans Day later returned to its original date). The goal was simple: give Americans more long weekends and boost travel and retail spending. Mission accomplished.
What’s Open and Closed in Santa Clara County?
Presidents’ Day is a federal holiday, which means federal offices like post offices will be closed. Banks will also take the day off, so don’t plan on doing any in-person banking. Most schools in Santa Clara County will likely be closed as well—check with your district to be sure.
But if you’re itching for some retail therapy, you’re in luck! Many stores and malls will remain open and even host special Presidents’ Day sales. Grocery stores and restaurants won’t miss a beat either, so your plans for brunch or last-minute shopping are safe.
Public transportation might run on a modified schedule, so double-check if you plan to hop on Caltrain or VTA buses.
How Did Lincoln Get Roped In?
Abraham Lincoln’s birthday has never been a federal holiday (sorry, Abe), but it has been celebrated at the state level in places like Illinois and Connecticut. In California, Lincoln’s contributions—like leading the country through the Civil War and abolishing slavery—are often acknowledged alongside Washington’s on Presidents’ Day.
These two iconic leaders blended into one holiday partly because their birthdays are so close together. Plus, combining their celebrations freed up space in the federal calendar for Martin Luther King Jr. Day without adding more holidays to labor contracts.
Presidents’ Day Traditions: From Cherry Pies to Car Sales
Historically, Washington’s Birthday was celebrated with parades, speeches, and cherry pie—a nod to the famous (but fictional) story about him chopping down a cherry tree. These days, Presidents’ Day is more about furniture sales and car discounts than patriotic festivities.
In Santa Clara County, you won’t find many parades or reenactments, but you might spot some community events honoring past presidents. Libraries often host educational programs for kids, while local museums might highlight presidential history exhibits.
And then there are the sales—oh, the sales! Whether you’re hunting for a new mattress or upgrading your tech gadgets, Presidents’ Day weekend is prime time for deals.
How Should You Celebrate?
If you’re feeling inspired by history—or just want an excuse to get out of the house—there are plenty of ways to mark Presidents’ Day in Santa Clara County:
- Visit History Park in San Jose: This open-air museum offers a glimpse into California’s past. While it doesn’t focus on presidents specifically, it’s a great way to connect with history.
- Take a Hike: Honor Teddy Roosevelt (the conservationist president) by exploring one of Santa Clara County’s beautiful parks like Almaden Quicksilver or Rancho San Antonio.
- Read Up on Presidential Trivia: Did you know that John Adams and Thomas Jefferson died on July 4th? Or that William Howard Taft got stuck in the White House bathtub? Dive into some presidential fun facts—you’ll be the star of your next trivia night.
- Bake Something Patriotic: Cherry pie might be cliché but delicious. Grab some red-white-and-blue treats from a local bakery if baking isn’t your thing.
A Holiday Worth Reflecting On
While Presidents’ Day might feel like just another day off work or school in Santa Clara County, it’s also an opportunity to reflect on leadership and history. Whether you admire Washington’s steadfastness or Lincoln’s courage—or even if you just appreciate a good sale—this holiday has something for everyone. So go ahead: enjoy that three-day weekend guilt-free!
Sources: timeanddate.com, livemint.com, almanac.com
Header Image Source: Connor Gan on Unsplash
