Washington's Birthday 2027 Countdown

In 2027, Washington's Birthday — widely known as Presidents Day — falls on Monday, February 15. The United States observes this holiday on the third Monday in February, so the date shifts slightly from year to year. In 2027, the official holiday date and the observed date are the same, which keeps planning straightforward for work, school, and travel.

The historical birthday of George Washington is February 22, but the move to a Monday schedule was designed to create a consistent long weekend. For 2027, that long weekend runs from Saturday, February 13 through Monday, February 15 for many people who have the day off. Knowing that it lands on a Monday helps you decide whether to schedule trips, appointments, or major errands on the surrounding days.

Washington's Birthday, the official federal name of the holiday, began as a commemoration of George Washington, the first president of the United States. Early observances focused on his leadership during the American Revolution, his role in shaping the Constitution, and his example of leaving office after two terms. Over time, stories about Washington's integrity and public service became part of school lessons and civic ceremonies tied to this date.

The shift to the third Monday in February under the Uniform Monday Holiday Act in the late 1960s helped create more predictable three-day weekends. As the date moved away from Washington’s actual birthday, popular usage evolved and many Americans started calling the holiday Presidents Day. Today, the name Presidents Day is commonly used to reflect a broader recognition of U.S. presidents in general, even though federal law still refers to the day as Washington's Birthday.

Washington's Birthday is a federal public holiday in the United States, so many government offices and services will not operate on Monday, February 15, 2027. Federal offices, many state and local government buildings, and most courts typically close for the day. The United States Postal Service generally does not deliver regular mail, and many banks follow the federal holiday schedule, though individual bank branches may set their own hours.

Most public schools and many colleges in the United States either close or adjust their schedules around Presidents Day, sometimes tying it into a mid-winter break. Retail businesses, grocery stores, and restaurants, however, are often open and may even extend hours to accommodate holiday shoppers and sales events. Public transportation systems usually run, but they may operate on a reduced or holiday schedule, so riders should check local transit agencies for 2027 timetable changes.

Observances of Washington's Birthday blend formal recognition with everyday activities. Some communities hold ceremonies, educational programs, or reenactments that highlight George Washington’s life and the broader history of the U.S. presidency. Schools that are in session around the holiday often include lessons on Washington, Abraham Lincoln, and other presidents, using the day as a moment to discuss leadership and civic responsibilities.

For many households, Presidents Day has also become a practical winter break from routine. Families may use the Washington's Birthday long weekend for short trips, home projects, or simply catching up on rest. Retailers frequently schedule major sales during this period, which draws people to shopping centers and online stores. In certain regions, especially near historic sites linked to Washington or other presidents, visitors may attend talks, wreath-layings, or museum programs tied specifically to the 2027 holiday.

Planning for Washington's Birthday 2027 starts with recognizing that it creates a three-day weekend for many workers and students. If your workplace or school typically closes on federal holidays, you might treat Monday, February 15 as a chance for rest, local outings, or a short winter getaway. Because many government services will be unavailable, it is wise to complete tasks like visiting offices or handling paperwork in the days before or after the holiday.

Travelers should consider that roads in and out of major cities may be busier on the Friday before and the Monday of Presidents Day. Booking transportation and accommodation early can help secure better options, especially near popular destinations and historic presidential sites. For everyday errands, you may want to confirm hours for banks, pharmacies, and small businesses, as some locations adjust their schedules even when large retail chains stay open. Tourists visiting the United States can use the day to explore museums or landmarks, while keeping an eye on winter weather conditions typical of February.