Presidents’ Day is a federal holiday that’s celebrated on the third Monday in February and recognizes the birthdays of Abraham Lincoln (February 12) and George Washington (February 22).
Washington’s Birthday was first celebrated as a federal holiday in the 1880s. Lincoln’s Birthday was celebrated in many states, but was never officially a federal holiday. In 1968, Congress passed a bill that moved many federal holidays to Mondays and increased the number of three day weekends. This would benefit workers who could enjoy extended time off, but it also reduced mid-week work disruptions. While the bill was being debated, many suggested renaming the holiday to Presidents’ Day to honor both Lincoln and Washington.
However, the holiday is still officially known as Washington’s Birthday. Congress did not agree to change the name, but many people, including stores promoting sales and events on the three-day weekend, began to call the holiday Presidents’ Day.
Presidents’ Day weekend also marks the start of mid-winter break for many students, including Yonkers! When it’s cold outside and you want to get out of the house, check out all of the great programs we have at all three branches of Yonkers Public Library. Below are some featured programs for children who might enjoy something fun to do during mid-winter break.
Children’s Programs at the Riverfront Library
- Black Onscreen Family Film Series - Check out these films featuring Black protagonists that are fun for the whole family. All films are screened in The Cove starting at 1:00 PM.
- Tuesday, February 17: The Little Mermaid (2023, PG)
- Wednesday, February 18: Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse (PG)
- Thursday, February 19: The Princess and the Frog (G)
- Mid-Winter Break Art Camp - Create dazzling artwork under the guidance of International Professional Artist and Yonkers resident Eddie Grigg. Art brings peace and calm to the soul! This program will be held on February 17-20 at 3:00 PM.
- 3D Printed Crafting: Lunar New Year - On Tuesday, Feb. 17 at 2:15 PM, come design a beaded necklace with 3D printed charms! Materials available while supplies last.
- Alma Thomas Art Afternoon - On Wednesday, Feb. 18 at 2:15 PM, join to make art pieces inspired by Alma Thomas! We'll mimic her iconic stripes using colorful stickers during this afternoon of creativity. Materials available while supplies last.
- The African Storyteller: Subomi Macaulay - On Friday, Feb. 20 at 2:00 PM, The African Storyteller, Subomi Macaulay, uses the powerful art of Storytelling to provide essential tools for the youth.
Children’s Programs at the Will Library
- Lunar New Year Crafternoon - On Tuesday, Feb. 17 at 2:00 PM, welcome the Year of the Horse with crafts and coloring!
- Puzzle Palooza! Board Games & Puzzles - On Wednesday, Feb. 18 at 2:00 PM, come for an afternoon of fun with board games and puzzles!
- K-Pop Demon Hunter Party - On Thursday, Feb. 19 at 4:00 PM, enjoy crafts, snacks, costumes and karaoke! This program is recommended for children ages 4-12. No registration required.
Children’s Programs at the Crestwood Library
- Fourth Annual Pancakes, Pajamas, and Puzzles - On Tuesday, Feb. 17 starting at 1:30 PM, wear your pajamas and get comfy with us at Crestwood Library! You are invited to join us for some pancakes, puzzles, and Winter Reading.
- The African Storyteller: Subomi Macaulay - On Thursday, Feb. 19 at 3:00 PM, The African Storyteller, Subomi Macaulay, uses the powerful art of Storytelling to provide essential tools for the youth.
- Coretta Scott King Book Award Celebration - On Friday, Feb. 20 at 3:00 PM, celebrate Coretta Scott Book Award Winning Books with us and log books for winter reading.
- Legend of Zelda 40th Anniversary Celebration - On Saturday, Feb. 21 at 2:00 PM, celebrate the 40th birthday of Legend of Zelda with us. Join us for puzzles, games,elda 40th Anniversary Celebration
Alison Robles, a Yonkers native, received an MS in Information and Library Science from the University at Buffalo. She works at the Crestwood Library and is an avid reader with a passion for YA lit, historical fiction, and fantasy.