Presidents Day is a federally recognized holiday observed each year on the third Monday in February. In Montgomery County, the holiday brings government office closures, school schedule changes, and modified public transportation services.
Here’s what residents in Rockville, Germantown, Gaithersburg, and surrounding communities can typically expect.
Montgomery County Public Schools
All schools within Montgomery County Public Schools are closed in observance of Presidents Day.
In many years, the school calendar may also designate the following day as a non-instructional day. Families should always confirm the official academic calendar for specific dates.
Government Offices and Services
Most county, state, and federal government offices are closed on Presidents Day.
This includes offices such as:
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The Montgomery County Government administrative offices
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Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) branches
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Federal offices
Essential services — including public safety and emergency response — continue operating.
Libraries
All branches of Montgomery County Public Libraries are typically closed on Presidents Day.
Residents are encouraged to check the library system’s website for updated operating hours around the holiday weekend.
Financial Markets and Mail Service
Presidents Day is a federal banking holiday. As a result:
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Banks are generally closed
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The New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq do not operate
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The United States Postal Service does not deliver regular mail
Private shipping carriers may operate on modified schedules.
Public Transportation
Holiday schedules typically apply to Montgomery County transit services:
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Ride On buses operate on a modified holiday schedule
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MARC Train service runs on a reduced or designated holiday schedule
Commuter stores and transit centers may operate on adjusted hours.
Residents should confirm service schedules before traveling.
Parking
Public parking garages, lots, and meters operated by Montgomery County are often free on Presidents Day, though enforcement rules may vary by location.
Retail and Restaurants
Most retail stores, grocery stores, and restaurants remain open. However, some small businesses and non-retail offices may close in observance of the federal holiday.
Why Is It Called Presidents Day?
The holiday is officially recognized as Washington’s Birthday, honoring George Washington, who was born on February 22.
Under the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, enacted in 1971, the observance was moved to the third Monday in February to create a three-day weekend.
Over time, the holiday became popularly known as Presidents Day, also recognizing Abraham Lincoln, born on February 12, and celebrating the presidency as an institution.
