Presidents Day, once a modest commemoration of George Washington’s birthday, has evolved into a consumerism bonanza devoid of its original significance. George Washington, like other Founding Fathers, eschewed public celebrations of his life, embodying the ideals of a new republic rather than seeking adulation akin to a monarch. Yet, the nation continues to observe Presidents Day, now more focused on shopping sales than reflecting on Washington’s legacy.

Historians lament the holiday’s transformation, with some arguing that it has lost all discernible meaning. Alexis Coe, author of “You Never Forget Your First: A Biography of George Washington,” likens Presidents Day to the towering monument in Washington, D.C., bearing Washington’s name—a featureless giant devoid of identifiable features.

Washington’s birthdays were unremarkable during his lifetime, marked by diligent work rather than grand celebrations. Even as president, he downplayed observances, preferring to spend time with family rather than bask in adulation. Despite occasional commemorations by his peers, including a ball thrown by the comte de Rochambeau for his 50th birthday, Washington remained humble in his approach to his own legacy.

Following Washington’s death in 1799, a market for Washington memorabilia emerged, conflating consumerism with patriotic memory. His birthday became an official holiday in 1879, although it wasn’t until 1832, on the centennial of his birth, that Congress arranged national parades and festivals in his honor.

The holiday’s official designation as Washington’s Birthday persists, but its observance has shifted towards consumerism. The Uniform Monday Holiday Act of 1971 moved Presidents Day to the third Monday in February, sparking retail sales campaigns and three-day weekend travel. This transition to commercialism would have troubled Washington and his contemporaries, who viewed corporations with skepticism.

Today, Presidents Day lacks recognizable traditions and moments of reflection. Its transformation into a consumer-driven holiday underscores broader cultural shifts and a departure from the original intent of honoring Washington’s legacy. As cynicism towards the presidency pervades, perhaps a return to meaningful reflection on the values of leadership and democracy is warranted.