February 2026 Holidays in the USA

February 2026 Holidays in the USA – Key Dates, Celebrations, and Events

February 2026 brings a vibrant mix of federal holidays, cultural celebrations, and beloved traditions that make this shortest month of the year truly special across the United States. From honoring presidents and civil rights icons to celebrating love and recognizing African American history, February offers Americans numerous opportunities to reflect, celebrate, and enjoy time with family and friends.

This comprehensive guide covers all the important dates you need to know for February 2026, including official federal holidays, state-specific observances, and popular cultural events. Whether you’re planning a long weekend getaway, organizing Valentine’s Day celebrations, or participating in Black History Month activities, this article provides everything you need to make the most of February 2026 holidays in the USA. We’ve included a detailed calendar, travel tips, and answers to frequently asked questions about public holidays in February 2026 to help you plan ahead effectively.

Federal and Public Holidays in February 2026

February 2026 features one major federal holiday that affects government offices, banks, and many businesses across the nation. Understanding these official observances helps you plan your schedule and take advantage of long weekends.

Presidents’ Day (Washington’s Birthday) falls on Monday, February 16, 2026. This federal holiday honors all U.S. presidents, though it originally celebrated George Washington’s birthday. Government offices, post offices, and banks close on this day, while many retailers offer special sales events. The three-day weekend provides an excellent opportunity for Americans to enjoy winter getaways or visit presidential historic sites.

Valentine’s Day, celebrated on Saturday, February 14, 2026, is not a federal holiday, meaning businesses and government offices remain open. However, it’s one of the most widely observed cultural celebrations in the United States, with Americans spending billions on flowers, chocolates, cards, and romantic dinners to express love and affection. The weekend timing in 2026 makes it particularly convenient for extended celebrations.

Here’s a quick reference table for major February 2026 holidays:

State Holidays in February 2026

While federal holidays apply nationwide, several states observe their own unique holidays in February 2026. These state-specific observances reflect local history, culture, and important figures.

Rosa Parks Day is celebrated on February 4, 2026, in California and Missouri, honoring the civil rights activist who sparked the Montgomery Bus Boycott. Some states commemorate her on December 1st instead, marking the anniversary of her historic refusal to give up her bus seat.

Lincoln’s Birthday on February 12, 2026, is recognized in several states including California, Connecticut, Illinois, Missouri, and New York, though it’s not a federal holiday. Abraham Lincoln, the 16th president, remains one of America’s most revered leaders.

Susan B. Anthony Day falls on February 15, 2026, celebrated primarily in Florida, New York, Wisconsin, and West Virginia. This observance honors the women’s suffrage pioneer who fought tirelessly for women’s voting rights.

It’s important to note that state holiday observances vary significantly. Government offices, schools, and businesses may or may not close depending on your state’s specific regulations. Check with your local government to confirm which state holidays affect your area.

Cultural & Fun Observances

Beyond official holidays, February 2026 is packed with meaningful observances and entertaining celebrations that enrich American culture.

Black History Month spans the entire month of February, dedicating 28 days to recognizing and celebrating African American achievements, history, and contributions to American society. Schools, museums, libraries, and cultural institutions host special programs, exhibitions, and educational events throughout February. This observance, established in 1976, provides an essential opportunity to learn about figures like Harriet Tubman, Martin Luther King Jr., Maya Angelou, and countless other Black Americans who shaped the nation.

Groundhog Day on February 2, 2026, brings the beloved tradition of watching Punxsutawney Phil emerge from his burrow in Pennsylvania. According to folklore, if the groundhog sees his shadow, expect six more weeks of winter; no shadow means an early spring. This quirky tradition attracts thousands of visitors to Punxsutawney and spawns watch parties across America.

Ash Wednesday marks the beginning of Lent for Christians and falls on February 18, 2026, signaling the start of the 40-day period of reflection and fasting before Easter.

Super Bowl Sunday typically occurs in early February, and in 2026, this unofficial American holiday falls on February 8, 2026. Millions gather for watch parties, making it one of the most-watched television events annually, complete with elaborate commercials and halftime entertainment.

Chinese New Year begins on February 17, 2026, ushering in the Year of the Horse. Celebrations include parades, dragon dances, and festive gatherings in cities like San Francisco, New York, and Los Angeles, with festivities continuing for several days into the month.

Fun food-themed observances include National Pizza Day (February 9), National Chocolate Day (February 9), and Random Acts of Kindness Day (February 17), adding lighthearted moments to the month’s calendar.

Calendar of February 2026 Holidays

Here’s your complete visual guide to US February holidays 2026, helping you track all important dates at a glance:

For a printable version to hang on your wall or refrigerator, check out our February 2026 Calendar Printable to help you plan and stay organized throughout the month.

Travel & Activities Ideas for February 2026

February offers excellent opportunities for memorable experiences, whether you’re taking advantage of the Presidents’ Day long weekend or planning romantic Valentine’s Day activities.

Presidents’ Day Weekend Travel: The three-day weekend from February 14-16, 2026, is perfect for winter escapes. Popular destinations include ski resorts in Colorado, Vermont, or Utah for snow enthusiasts, or warmer locations like Florida, Arizona, or California for those seeking sunshine. Many airlines and hotels offer special Presidents’ Day deals, making it an affordable time to travel. The fact that Valentine’s Day falls on Saturday creates an extended celebration opportunity for couples planning romantic getaways.

Valentine’s Day Celebrations: Saturday, February 14, 2026, provides ideal timing for Valentine’s celebrations without the weekday rush. Consider making restaurant reservations well in advance, as popular venues book quickly for weekend dates. Alternative ideas include couples’ spa days, cooking classes together, weekend getaways to romantic destinations like Charleston, Savannah, or Napa Valley, or attending special Valentine’s concerts and theater performances.

Black History Month Activities: Throughout February, participate in educational and cultural events celebrating African American heritage. Visit museums like the National Museum of African American History and Culture in Washington D.C., attend local lectures and film screenings, or explore historic sites along the Civil Rights Trail spanning multiple southern states.

Winter Festivals: Many cities host winter carnivals, ice sculpture competitions, and outdoor festivals in February. Check local event calendars for activities in your area, from Mardi Gras celebrations (which occur in late February/early March depending on the year) to winterfest events in northern cities.

Chinese New Year Celebrations: With Chinese New Year falling on February 17, 2026, this presents wonderful opportunities to experience vibrant parades, traditional performances, and authentic cuisine in major cities with significant Asian American communities.

FAQs About February 2026 Holidays

What are the federal holidays in February 2026?

February 2026 has one federal holiday: Presidents’ Day (Washington’s Birthday) on Monday, February 16, 2026. This is the only day when federal government offices, post offices, and banks are officially closed during the month.

Is Valentine’s Day a public holiday in the US?

No, Valentine’s Day is not a federal or public holiday in the United States. Businesses, schools, and government offices remain open on February 14, 2026. However, it’s one of the most commercially significant and culturally important dates, with widespread celebrations across the country. In 2026, Valentine’s Day falls on a Saturday, making it even more convenient for extended celebrations.

Which states celebrate Rosa Parks Day?

Rosa Parks Day is observed on February 4th in California and Missouri. Other states may recognize Rosa Parks on different dates or through other commemorative events. The observance honors her pivotal role in the civil rights movement.

How many holidays are in February 2026?

February 2026 includes one federal holiday (Presidents’ Day), several state-specific holidays (Rosa Parks Day, Lincoln’s Birthday, Susan B. Anthony Day), and numerous cultural observances including Valentine’s Day, Groundhog Day, Chinese New Year, and the month-long celebration of Black History Month. The exact count depends on whether you include cultural observances and your state’s specific holidays.

Do schools close for Presidents’ Day?

Most public schools close for Presidents’ Day, making it part of a three-day weekend for students and teachers. However, policies vary by school district, so check with your local schools to confirm their specific schedule for February 2026.

When does Black History Month 2026 take place?

Black History Month is celebrated throughout the entire month of February annually, including all of February 2026. The observance spans from February 1st through February 28th, 2026.

What day of the week does Valentine’s Day fall on in 2026?

Valentine’s Day 2026 falls on Saturday, February 14th, making it particularly convenient for romantic celebrations, dinner dates, and weekend getaways without the constraints of work schedules.

February 2026 holidays in the USA offer a rich tapestry of federal observances, cultural celebrations, and meaningful traditions that bring Americans together despite the winter cold. From the patriotic recognition of Presidents’ Day to the romantic festivities of Valentine’s Day falling on a weekend, and from the important educational focus of Black History Month to the whimsical fun of Groundhog Day, this short month packs tremendous significance into just 28 days.

Whether you’re planning to take advantage of the Presidents’ Day long weekend for travel, organizing special Valentine’s celebrations that coincide with the three-day weekend, or participating in Black History Month and Chinese New Year activities, understanding the full calendar of observances in February 2026 helps you make the most of these opportunities. Mark your calendar with these important dates, plan ahead for federal holidays when banks and government offices close, and embrace the diverse celebrations that make February special.

Ready to stay organized? Visit our February 2026 Calendar Printable to download a free calendar with all holidays marked to keep these important dates at your fingertips. Plan ahead, celebrate meaningfully, and make February 2026 a month to remember!