Is Presidents’ Day 2026 a federal holiday? Will banks, courts and post offices be closed on Feb. 16

Presidents’ Day 2026 is approaching, and millions of Americans are asking the same questions: Is it a federal holiday? Will post offices and banks be closed? As February 2026 unfolds, the third Monday, February 16, ushers in Presidents' Day, a holiday that stirs memories of America's founding leaders. This observance blends reverence for George Washington with broader tributes to presidential legacies, sparking nationwide closures, sales rushes, and reflections on national identity.

What is Presidents’ Day?

Presidents’ Day, officially Washington’s birthday, is a long-standing federal holiday observed annually on the third Monday of February. In 2026, it falls on Monday, February 16.

The holiday began in 1879 to honor George Washington. Over time, public perception expanded the observance to recognize Abraham Lincoln and eventually all US presidents.


The modern Monday date comes from the Uniform Monday Holiday Act of 1971, which moved several federal holidays to Mondays to create long weekends and reduce midweek work disruptions.

Although Americans commonly call it Presidents’ Day, the federal government still legally recognizes the holiday as Washington’s Birthday.

Is Presidents’ Day a federal holiday in 2026?

Yes. Presidents’ Day is one of the 11 official US federal holidays observed nationwide.

As a federal holiday, many government and financial institutions close or operate on modified schedules. This includes federal offices, courts, the postal service, and major banks.

It is also the only federal holiday in February, with the next one being Memorial Day in May.

One of the biggest impacts of Presidents’ Day is the nationwide shutdown of postal services. The US Postal Service has confirmed it will observe Presidents’ Day on February 16, 2026, meaning all Post Office locations will be closed, regular mail delivery will stop and retail postal services will be unavailable.

The services will resume on Tuesday, February 17, 2026.

However, essential services remain available online. Customers can still purchase postage, track packages, and use self-service kiosks in select locations during the closure.

What will be closed on Presidents’ Day 2026

The holiday’s federal status means many sectors shut down or limit services.

Federal, state, and local government offices, along with courts, are typically closed for the holiday.

Most major banks close because the Federal Reserve observes the holiday. US stock markets, including the New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq, will also be closed.

Many public schools and universities close, although policies vary by district and state.

Retail stores, restaurants, and supermarkets usually remain open, often running Presidents’ Day sales promotions.

Despite being a federal holiday, Presidents’ Day does not guarantee a day off for everyone. Many private-sector workers continue working because federal holidays mainly apply to government institutions and federally regulated sectors.