Big news regarding the nation’s upcoming 250th-anniversary celebrations was delivered right here in our backyard. During a press conference held in Vero Beach on January 30, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis announced that Presidents Day 2026 will be designated as an extra state holiday. This move is part of the state’s broader “America 250” initiative, gearing up to honor the United States’ semiquincentennial since the Declaration of Independence.
While Presidents Day has long been a federal holiday, it is not typically a paid holiday for Florida state employees. However, the Governor chose his visit to Indian River County to declare that for 2026, the state will align with the federal calendar to mark this historic milestone.
Governor DeSantis emphasized the significance of the decision during his address in Vero Beach:
“…This year for America’s 250, we’ll recognize Washington’s birthday, not just federally, but as a state holiday. So our state offices will be closed, our state employees will be able to have the day off, which I know they’re not going to complain about.”
What This Means for Indian River County Residents
The holiday falls on Monday, February 16, 2026. For residents of Vero Beach and the wider Treasure Coast, this designation adds another layer of closures to the calendar. While the holiday honors Presidents George Washington and Abraham Lincoln, the practical impact will be felt across local schools and government services.
Parents in the area should mark their calendars now: Indian River County schools will be closed on February 16, 2026. This aligns with closures in neighboring St. Lucie and Martin counties. While most Florida counties observe this break, it is worth noting that just four counties in the state will remain in session. Fortunately for local families, the Treasure Coast school districts are observing the holiday, providing a long weekend for students.
What is Open and Closed on Presidents Day 2026?
To help you plan your weekend in Vero Beach, here is a breakdown of what to expect regarding services and retail hours on Monday, Feb. 16, 2026:
- State Offices: Closed. This includes all state government agencies, thanks to the Governor’s recent announcement.
- Schools: Closed for students in Indian River County.
- Banks: Closed. Most financial institutions follow the Federal Reserve holiday schedule.
- Post Office: Closed. The U.S. Postal Service will not deliver regular mail, and retail counters will be shut down.
- Shipping Services: UPS pickup and delivery services are generally available, while FedEx usually operates on a modified service schedule.
- Grocery Stores & Retail: Open. Most major retailers and supermarkets in Vero Beach will operate during regular business hours.
A Historic Celebration
The push to elevate Presidents Day 2026 is rooted in the “America 250” celebrations. Although the official 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence arrives on July 4, 2026, Florida is kicking off the patriotic festivities early in the year.
Historically, the holiday began as an unofficial celebration of George Washington’s birthday following his death in 1799. It became a signed law for federal workers in 1879. While Florida statutes list “Washington’s Birthday” as a legal holiday, it has not traditionally been observed as a paid day off for state workers until this special exception for the semiquincentennial.
As Vero Beach continues to grow as a hub for important state announcements, we look forward to seeing how the community participates in the upcoming America 250 celebrations.
