Presidents Day is a federal holiday celebrated on the third Monday of February each year. It is a day to honor and celebrate the birthdays of two of America’s most iconic presidents, George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. In New Jersey, there are many ways to celebrate Presidents Day and pay tribute to these great leaders.
One of the most popular ways to celebrate Presidents Day in New Jersey is by visiting historic sites and museums dedicated to George Washington and Abraham Lincoln. In Morristown, visitors can tour Washington’s Headquarters Museum, where Washington spent the winter of 1779-1780 during the Revolutionary War. The museum features exhibits on Washington’s life and legacy, as well as artifacts from the time period.
In Springfield, New Jersey, visitors can explore the Abraham Lincoln Brigade Monument, which honors the soldiers who fought in the Spanish Civil War. The monument features a statue of Lincoln and plaques with quotes from his speeches. Visitors can also learn about Lincoln’s impact on American history at the nearby Springfield Public Library, which houses a collection of books and documents related to the 16th president.
Another way to celebrate Presidents Day in New Jersey is by attending special events and activities. Many towns and cities across the state hold parades, reenactments, and other festivities in honor of Washington and Lincoln. In Jersey City, for example, the annual Presidents Day Parade features marching bands, floats, and costumed reenactors portraying historical figures.
For those looking to learn more about the presidents and their legacies, there are also educational programs and lectures held throughout New Jersey on Presidents Day. The New Jersey Historical Society in Newark offers a variety of events, including lectures on Washington’s leadership during the Revolutionary War and Lincoln’s role in ending slavery.
Overall, Presidents Day in New Jersey is a time to reflect on the contributions of George Washington and Abraham Lincoln to American history and to celebrate their enduring legacies. Whether visiting historic sites, attending events, or participating in educational programs, there are plenty of ways to honor these great presidents in the Garden State.