Over time, however, its meaning evolved. In 1971, the Uniform Monday Holiday Act moved the observance to a Monday as part of an effort to create more three-day weekends for American workers.

That shift helped transform “Washington’s Birthday” into what we now widely recognize as Presidents’ Day.

While some states still honor Washington, Lincoln, or other presidents individually, the modern holiday has grown into something broader:

A day to recognize all U.S. presidents—past and present

A moment to reflect on leadership, legacy, and national progress

And yes, a well-earned long weekend

Presidents’ Day reminds us that leadership evolves—but its impact lasts generations.