President's Day in American Samoa

President's Day in American Samoa is observed on the third Monday in February. This day is a federal holiday in the United States, and as an unincorporated territory of the U.S., American Samoa follows suit in commemorating this occasion.

History

Originally established to honor George Washington, the nation's first president, President's Day has since evolved to celebrate all past U.S. presidents. The Uniform Monday Holiday Act of 1968 shifted the celebration of Washington's birthday from February 22 to the third Monday of February and took effect in 1971. While still officially called "Washington’s Birthday" by the federal government, it is popularly known as President's Day.

Traditions

President's Day serves as a day of patriotic celebration and remembrance. In American Samoa, traditions include:

• Educational Events: Schools and educational institutions may use this day to teach students about the history of American presidents and their contributions.
• Government Observance: As with other federal holidays, government offices are typically closed for the day.
• Cultural Displays: Local communities may host parades or cultural performances highlighting Samoan heritage alongside American history.

Activities

Residents of American Samoa may engage in various activities such as:

• Family Gatherings: Families often spend time together, enjoying a day off from work and school.
• Sales and Shopping: Retailers may offer President’s Day sales, providing an opportunity for shopping at discounted prices.
• Outdoor Activities: With the tropical climate, people might participate in outdoor activities like picnics or beach outings.

President’s Day provides a moment for reflection on presidential legacies while also offering an opportunity for relaxation and community engagement within American Samoan society.