Bryan Stalder
Contributor

As the United States approaches a historic milestone — the 250th anniversary of the nation’s founding — communities across the country are kicking off a yearlong series of events highlighting American history, leadership and civic pride. Presidents Day offers one of the first opportunities in 2026 to reflect on the people and principles that have shaped the nation since 1776.

While many Americans know this holiday as “Presidents Day,” its official federal name remains Washington’s Birthday.

The holiday began in 1879 as a way to honor George Washington, the nation’s first president, born Feb. 22. Nearly a century later, Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act in 1971, shifting the observance to the third Monday in February to create a three-day weekend for workers. Because the date falls between the birthdays of Washington and Abraham Lincoln (Feb. 12), states and retailers gradually adopted the broader “Presidents Day” name in the 1980’s, expanding the focus to recognize all who have served in the Oval Office.

Today, the holiday serves as both a tribute to individual leaders and a reminder of the responsibilities of democracy itself.

Locally, residents can step directly into history at a special Presidents Day program at the Harry S. Truman Presidential Library & Museum, 500 West U.S. Hwy 24 in Independence.

From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., visitors can celebrate 250 years of the American presidency through interactive presentations and up-close encounters with historical reenactors portraying four iconic presidents: Harry S. Truman, George Washington, Abraham Lincoln and Theodore Roosevelt. Designed for all ages, this event invites families to hear firsthand stories about the challenges and decisions that shaped the country.

Presentation schedule:

• 10 a.m. — President Harry Truman
• 10:30 a.m. —  President George Washington
• 11 a.m. —  President Abraham Lincoln
• 11:30 a.m. —  President Theodore Roosevelt

Throughout the day, these presidents will also mingle with guests, answer questions and pose for photos. Light refreshments and self-guided, family-friendly activities will be available.

As residents make plans for the long weekend, it’s also important to remember that Presidents Day is a federal holiday. Banks, post offices, government offices and many businesses will be closed. Trash pickup will be delayed by one day; in Northeast neighborhoods, collection will be delayed by one day..

Whether attending a local event or simply taking a moment to reflect, the holiday offers a chance to consider the nation’s past — and its path forward — as America enters its 250th year.