Today is Presidents Day.

At the federal level, the holiday is still called Washington’s Birthday. It began as a tribute to George Washington after his death in 1799.

Communities marked February 22 with speeches, parades, and public gatherings.

In 1879, Congress made Washington’s Birthday a federal holiday in Washington, D.C. In 1885, it expanded nationwide for federal employees. In 1968, lawmakers passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, moving the holiday to the third Monday in February.

The change took effect in 1971. Over time, states and retailers began using Presidents Day, broadening the focus to include Abraham Lincoln and other presidents.

The Delaware Valley played a quiet but meaningful role in shaping the legacy behind the holiday.

At Valley Forge National Historical Park in Montgomery County, Washington led the Continental Army through the brutal winter of 1777 to 1778. That endurance defined his public image as a steady leader under pressure.

Philadelphia later served as the nation’s capital during his presidency. Early public celebrations of his February 22 birthday were common here.

The region’s deep Revolutionary War identity helped sustain annual commemorations long before Congress acted.

Lawmakers created the holiday. The Delaware Valley helped create the story that made honoring Washington inevitable.

Today, we are pressing pause on new VISTA Today stories.

Instead of publishing fresh articles, we are sharing five stories from our archive focused on past presidents and their impact. Some connect directly to our region. Others explore moments that shaped the country.

Presidents Day offers space to reflect. We invite you to revisit these stories and consider how leadership, legacy, and local history continue to intersect right here at home.