Hey there, Del Mar! It’s that time of the year again when we get a day off to honor our nation’s leaders. But Presidents Day isn’t just about a long weekend or a chance to snag some sales. Let’s dive into the fun and fascinating world of this holiday.
The Birth of a Holiday
Originally, Presidents Day was all about George Washington. Born on February 22, 1732, Washington was the first President of the United States, and his birthday was celebrated as a federal holiday starting in 1885. But here’s the twist: the holiday we now call Presidents Day isn’t actually named that by the federal government. It’s still officially known as Washington’s Birthday.
A Shift in Celebration
In 1968, Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Bill, which moved several holidays to Mondays to give workers more three-day weekends. This was when Presidents Day got its unofficial new name, thanks to retailers who saw an opportunity for sales and the holiday’s proximity to Abraham Lincoln’s birthday on February 12. Although the name change was debated, it stuck in the public’s mind, even if not in law.
More Than Just Washington and Lincoln
While Washington and Lincoln are the show’s stars, Presidents Day has morphed into a celebration of all U.S. presidents. Here are some fun facts:
- Presidential Parks: There are 35 parks named after American Presidents. From Washington’s birthplace in Colonial Beach, VA, to the Adams National Historical Park in Massachusetts, which was the birthplace of two presidents, John Adams and John Quincy Adams.
- The Peanut Farmer President: Jimmy Carter was a peanut farmer before he was president. Talk about a down-to-earth leader!
- The Park Ranger President: Gerald R. Ford is the only American president to have served as a park ranger. Imagine him guiding tourists through Yellowstone!
- The Most Honored: Theodore Roosevelt has the most national parks named in his honor, with Lincoln coming in a close second.
What’s Open and What’s Closed?
On Presidents Day, you’ll find:
- Banks: Closed, so plan your errands accordingly.
- Post Offices: Also closed, but you can still drop off mail in those blue boxes.
- Federal Offices: They’ll be shut down, giving government workers a break.
- Schools: Many schools will be closed, giving kids a day off to learn about presidents in their own way.
- Retail: This is where the fun begins. Stores often have big sales, making it a great time to shop.
Celebrating in Del Mar
So, what can you do in Del Mar to celebrate Presidents Day? Here are some ideas:
- Visit a Park: While we might not have a park named after a president in Del Mar, we’re not far from places like Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve, where you can enjoy nature and maybe reflect on the leaders who helped preserve such spaces.
- Educational Fun: Organize a little quiz or trivia night with friends or family about U.S. presidents. Who knows, you might discover some surprising facts!
- Community Events: Check out local events. Sometimes, there are parades, reenactments, or special exhibits at local museums or libraries.
- Shop Smart: Take advantage of the sales. Whether it’s furniture, electronics, or clothes, Presidents Day sales are a big deal.
Reflecting on Leadership
Presidents Day isn’t just about the past; it’s a chance to think about leadership. Each president, from Washington to the current officeholder, has uniquely shaped our country. They’ve led us through wars, economic crises, and social changes. This day reminds us of their contributions and the importance of leadership in our lives.
So, this Presidents Day, whether you’re exploring a national park, enjoying a sale, or just taking a moment to learn something new about our leaders, remember it’s more than just a day off. It celebrates the people who’ve steered our nation through history. Enjoy your day, Del Mar, and maybe take a moment to appreciate the legacy of leadership that Presidents Day honors.
Sources: britannica.com, nationalparks.org, livemint.com
Header Image Source: Joshua Hoehne on Unsplash
