Abraham Lincoln's Birthday

Celebrated on 02/12/2026

Quick Fact

Abraham Lincoln's Birthday is a legal holiday in several U.S. states, though it is not a federal holiday. Interestingly, it is often combined with George Washington's Birthday to create Presidents' Day, but some states still celebrate Lincoln's Birthday separately on February 12.

Origins and Establishment of Abraham Lincoln's Birthday

Abraham Lincoln's Birthday was first observed as a holiday in 1865, the year after his assassination, when local communities held memorial services. The first official state recognition came in 1874 when Illinois declared February 12 a legal holiday. By the early 20th century, many northern states had adopted the holiday, though it remained largely a regional observance.

Evolution and Modern Commemoration

Over time, the holiday has evolved from somber remembrance to a celebration of Lincoln's legacy. In 1971, the Uniform Monday Holiday Act moved Washington's Birthday to the third Monday in February, and many states combined both presidents' birthdays into Presidents' Day. However, some states like Illinois, New York, and California still observe Lincoln's Birthday separately on February 12. Modern celebrations include reenactments, speeches, and educational programs highlighting Lincoln's achievements.

Facts & General Observations

• Abraham Lincoln's Birthday is a state holiday in Illinois, where it was first officially recognized, and in several other states including New York, New Jersey, and Connecticut.
• The Lincoln Memorial in Washington, D.C., hosts an annual wreath-laying ceremony on February 12.
• Lincoln's Birthday is one of the few holidays that honors a single individual who was not a founding father or a national symbol like George Washington.

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