Events

Presidents Day 2026: History, Meaning & Traditions

Published

6 months ago

February 16, 2026

Every February, Americans pause to recognize the nation’s highest office on Presidents Day, a federal holiday dedicated to honoring the leaders who have shaped the United States. Observed on the third Monday of February, the holiday falls on February 16 in 2026.

The Origins of Presidents Day

Presidents Day originally began as a celebration of George Washington’s birthday. Born on February 22, 1732, Washington was widely revered as a foundational figure in American history — a Revolutionary War hero and the nation’s first president.

In 1879, Washington’s Birthday became an official federal holiday. Nearly a century later, the Uniform Monday Holiday Act of 1971 shifted the observance to the third Monday in February, creating a long weekend for workers and broadening the holiday’s scope. Over time, it evolved into Presidents Day — a time to honor not just Washington, but also leaders like Abraham Lincoln, born February 12, and others who have served in the Oval Office.

A Day of Reflection and Celebration

Presidents Day is both commemorative and practical. While many government offices, banks, and schools close in observance, communities across the country host educational events, historical reenactments, and patriotic ceremonies.

At sites such as Mount Vernon — Washington’s historic Virginia estate — special programs and tributes are often held to honor the first president’s legacy. Meanwhile, retailers nationwide have turned the holiday into one of the year’s biggest sales weekends, making it a notable date on the commercial calendar as well.

The Broader Meaning

Beyond sales and long weekends, Presidents Day serves as a reminder of the responsibilities and challenges of presidential leadership. From times of war and economic hardship to moments of unity and progress, the office of the presidency has played a central role in shaping the American story.

As the nation reflects this Presidents Day, Americans are encouraged to learn more about the individuals who have held the office — their achievements, struggles, and enduring impact on the country’s democratic traditions.

Whether through visiting historic landmarks, reading biographies, or simply taking a moment to reflect, Presidents Day remains a tribute to leadership, service, and the evolving journey of the United States.

Photo Courtesy: Owen Cramsie

Events

Italian Feast & Carnival Returns to Tappan Sept. 10–13, 2026

Published

5 days ago

August 7, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

One of the Hudson Valley’s largest celebrations of Italian heritage is set to return this September as the annual Italian Feast & Carnival takes over Masonic Park Fairgrounds in Tappan.

The four-day event will be held September 10–13, 2026, at Masonic Park Fairgrounds, 89 Western Highway, Tappan, conveniently located near the Palisades Parkway, Exit 5 South.

Organizers describe the festival as the largest cultural event in Rockland and Westchester counties, featuring authentic Italian food, carnival rides, games, family-friendly activities, and free live entertainment throughout the weekend.

The festival schedule includes:

Thursday, Sept. 10: 5 p.m. to 11 p.m.
Friday, Sept. 11: 5 p.m. to Midnight
Saturday, Sept. 12: Noon to Midnight
Sunday, Sept. 13: Noon to 9 p.m., with an Outdoor Mass at 10 a.m.

Guests can also enjoy a casino, a Super 50/50 Grand Prize Raffle, and a variety of attractions for all ages.

Admission is $10 per person, and free parking will be available on-site.

Festival organizers remind attendees that outside food and beverages, coolers, backpacks, and pets are not permitted on the grounds.

Events

Free National Night Out 2026 Clover Stadium on August 6

Published

1 week ago

August 4, 2026

Rockland Report Admin

The annual National Night Out will return to Clover Stadium on Thursday, August 6, bringing together law enforcement, first responders, and the community for an evening of family-friendly activities and entertainment.

The free event begins at 5 p.m., with the official ceremony scheduled to start on the field at 6:30 p.m. A baseball game will follow at 7 p.m.

National Night Out is designed to strengthen relationships between law enforcement, emergency responders, and the communities they serve. The event offers residents an opportunity to meet local police officers, firefighters, EMS personnel, and other first responders in a fun and welcoming environment.

Attendees can enjoy live music, face painting, bounce houses, giveaways, and interactive activities for all ages. Police, fire, and emergency vehicles will be on display, along with K-9 demonstrations and mounted police horses.

Organizers say the event is free and open to the public, encouraging families from across Rockland County to attend and spend an evening with the men and women who serve their communities.

National Night Out has been celebrated nationwide since 1984 and has become an annual tradition in communities across the country, promoting public safety, crime prevention, and stronger partnerships between residents and first responders.