Will Kroger and Giant Eagle Be Open on Presidents' Day?
So, you're wondering if your local grocery store will be open on Presidents' Day? Well, according to Kroger's official website, most locations will maintain their regular hours during this federal holiday. And what about Giant Eagle? Fear not, because Giant Eagle will also be open, as confirmed by their hours guide. So whether you're grabbing last-minute snacks or just need a cartful of essentials, you're covered on this special day.
What’s Coming Up Next in the Holiday Calendar?
Presidents' Day isn’t the end of the holiday road for Americans. The next major federal holiday on the horizon is Memorial Day, which falls on a Monday in late May. It’s the day when workers across the U.S. get a well-deserved break to honor those who have served in the armed forces. But don’t forget, Presidents’ Day is celebrated annually on the third Monday of February, making it a perfect mid-winter breather for all of us.
A Brief History of Presidents’ Day
Originally established in 1879 to honor George Washington, the first President of the United States, Presidents’ Day has evolved into a broader celebration of all U.S. presidents. Signed into law by President Rutherford B. Hayes, the holiday was initially observed only by federal employees in the District of Columbia. Over time, it expanded nationwide, becoming a day to recognize not just Washington but also Abraham Lincoln and all the leaders who’ve shaped our nation.
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Why Do We Celebrate Presidents’ Day?
Presidents’ Day is more than just a day off from work or school. It’s a time to reflect on the contributions of the men who’ve led our country. In Pennsylvania and California, it’s even recognized as an official state holiday, though the placement of the apostrophe varies depending on where you are. Back in 1968, Congressman Robert McClory tried to rebrand "Washington’s Birthday" to "Presidents’ Day," but the idea didn’t gain much traction at the time.
Modern Traditions Around Presidents’ Day
Today, Presidents’ Day is celebrated in a variety of ways. Some presidents have used the day to relax, while others have taken the opportunity to campaign or work. But one thing’s for sure—banks like Capital One, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, PNC, Chase, Truist, and CitiBank will be closed on this federal holiday. So if you’re planning to visit your local branch, you might want to reschedule!
Presidents’ Day: Honoring the Past, Celebrating the Present
While the holiday officially commemorates George Washington's birthday, it has grown to honor all presidents who’ve served the nation. This federal holiday, observed on the third Monday of February, has become a day to celebrate the office of the presidency itself. It’s a time to remember not just Washington and Lincoln but all the leaders who’ve guided us through triumphs and trials.
Origins of Presidents’ Day
Let’s go back to the beginning. Presidents’ Day wasn’t always Presidents’ Day. It started as a way to honor George Washington, a man who preferred working on his birthday rather than celebrating it. After his death in 1799, the nation began informally observing his birthday. It wasn’t until 1879 that Senator Steven Wallace Dorsey proposed making February 22, Washington’s actual birthday, an official holiday. And the rest, as they say, is history.
Presidents’ Day Around the Country
While many states celebrate Presidents’ Day, not everyone does it the same way. Twenty-four states use some variation of the name "Presidents’ Day," while ten call it "President’s Day" (singular), and three simply say "Presidents Day" without an apostrophe. Interestingly, ten states don’t celebrate the holiday at all. But whether you call it "Washington’s Birthday" or "Presidents’ Day," the spirit of the day remains the same—to honor the men who’ve led our nation.
How Presidents’ Day Became What It Is Today
The Uniform Monday Holiday Act, which took effect in 1971, moved Presidents’ Day to the third Monday in February. This change was meant to give workers more long weekends, but it also sparked debates about the holiday’s true purpose. Historian C. Bruggeman noted that Washington and the founding fathers might have been uneasy about the commercialization of the day. Yet despite these concerns, Presidents’ Day has become synonymous with sales and discounts, making it a favorite among shoppers nationwide.
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What’s Next for Presidents’ Day?
As we look ahead, Presidents’ Day 2025 will fall on February 17. While the holiday continues to evolve, its core mission remains unchanged: to honor the legacy of American leadership. So whether you spend the day shopping for bargains or reflecting on history, remember the men who’ve shaped our nation’s story. After all, that’s what Presidents’ Day is all about.
