Presidents Day Timeline

1980s-Present

Presidents’ Day Is Official

Presidents’ Day becomes the common term, honoring all presidents and a marketing boon for retailers.

1968

Uniform Monday Holiday Bill

Congress passes the Uniform Monday Holiday Bill and shifts four bank holidays to Monday including Washington’s Birthday.

1879

Official Holiday

President Rutherford B. Hayes signs Washington’s Birthday into law.

1800s

George Washingtons’ Birthday

After George Washington’s death in 1799 his birthday is celebrated nationwide.