President's Day in Northern Mariana Islands

President's Day in the Northern Mariana Islands is a public holiday that aligns with the federal holiday observed on the third Monday of February in the United States. It is meant to honor all past presidents of the United States, although it originally began as a celebration of George Washington's birthday.

History

• Origin: President's Day originated as a celebration of George Washington's birthday (February 22) and was established as a federal holiday in the United States in 1885.
• Transformation: The holiday was shifted from Washington's actual birthday to the third Monday in February due to the Uniform Monday Holiday Act of 1968, which aimed to provide uniform annual observances of certain legal public holidays on Mondays.
• Scope: Over time, while still officially called Washington’s Birthday by the federal government, it has become popularly known as President's Day and is often an occasion to honor Abraham Lincoln (whose birthday is also in February), and all persons who have served as president.

Traditions

In the Northern Mariana Islands, President’s Day traditions mirror those in other U.S. states and territories:

• Government Closure: Government offices and schools are typically closed.
• Sales: Retailers often hold special sales events, taking advantage of the long weekend to attract shoppers.
• Activities: Some residents may participate in community events or educational programs that focus on American history and presidential legacies.

What People Do

• Relaxation & Recreation: As with many public holidays, people may use this day off for personal activities such as spending time with family or enjoying outdoor recreational activities.
• Commemorative Events: Although less common than on mainland USA, there may be occasional local events or school activities designed to educate about and commemorate past presidents.

President’s Day serves both as a day off work for many residents and an opportunity for reflection on U.S. history within this Pacific territory.