Students across most of Florida will enjoy a three-day weekend in observance of Presidents Day on February 16, 2026. This federal holiday, which is commonly referred to as Presidents Day, celebrates Washington’s birthday, as it falls on the third Monday in February.
However, students in four counties, including Palm Beach—home to Mar-a-Lago—will attend school on this day. The counties where classes will be in session are Columbia, Highlands, Osceola, and Palm Beach. For instance, students in Columbia will not have school on Friday, February 13, due to a professional development day, while Highlands and Osceola will also have a teacher workday leading into the weekend.
Governor Ron DeSantis has designated Presidents Day as a state holiday for 2026, aligning it with America’s semiquincentennial, marking the 250th anniversary of the United States. As a result, state offices will be closed, and government employees will receive this day off. This announcement highlights Florida’s recognition of important historical events and places significance on its residents.
While most students will revel in their break, they will soon look forward to their next holiday—spring break—whose timing varies throughout the state. Some school districts will break for spring as early as March 9, while others will not have their break until as late as April 13.
This year’s Presidents Day is part of a list of federal holidays recognized in 2026, including New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, and Thanksgiving, among others. It’s worth noting that the holiday has various names across the country, with some referring to it as Presidents’ Day, President’s Day, or simply Washington’s Birthday, depending on local traditions and style guides.
As the holiday approaches, students and families across Florida are encouraged to plan their weekend activities and take advantage of the time off to relax and enjoy time together.