Each year on the third Monday in February, Americans celebrate Presidents’ Day, one of the most important official holidays in the United States. Since its founding, this day has celebrated the leadership and legacy of U.S. presidents, including Abraham Lincoln and others who shaped the nation.
In 2026, Presidents’ Day will be on February 16. The Museum of Historic Annapolis in Annapolis, Maryland, is preparing for an exciting Presidents’ Day celebration. From 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM, families can participate in hands-on activities that kids will love, such as patriotic crafts, scavenger hunts, and tours.
History enthusiasts, families, and anyone seeking a worthwhile activity to commemorate Presidents’ Day will have the opportunity to learn, explore, and pay tribute to American heritage at one of Annapolis’s beloved cultural institutions.
So are you ready to explore fun things to do in Annapolis Presidents’ Day with Zavros Place!
Presidents’ Day History — A Deeper Look
Origins of the Holiday
The United States celebrates Presidents’ Day every year on the third Monday of February. It is a government holiday that dates back to the 1800s, and it was founded as a way of paying honor to George Washington, who was the first president of the United States and a famous leader of the American Revolution.
After Washington’s death in 1799, February 22 became a special day to remember him and celebrate his life. Congress made Washington’s birthday a federal holiday for government workers in the 1880s. It was the first holiday to honor a specific American.
From Washington’s Birthday to Presidents’ Day
Congress passed the Uniform Monday Holiday Act in 1971. This moved a number of government holidays, including Washington’s Birthday, to Mondays so that people could plan their weekends more easily. The holiday no longer happens on Washington’s actual birthday because the third Monday in February never falls on February 22.
The official name of the holiday is still “Washington’s Birthday,” but the name “Presidents’ Day” has become more common in popular culture and public discourse to refer to a celebration of U.S. presidential leadership in a wider sense.
What the Day Means Today
Lincoln’s birthday is February 12, so some states still honor him separately. However, many Americans now use Presidents’ Day to honor the contributions of more than one president and to think about the country’s history and civic ideals.
Connecting to the Museum Event
At the Museum of Historic Annapolis, this holiday is more than just a date on the calendar. It is an opportunity for families and visitors to learn about presidential history through hands-on games and interesting exhibits.
What to Expect at the Museum of Historic Annapolis on Presidents’ Day — Event Overview
Event Basics
- Date & Time: It will happen on Monday, February 16, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM.
- Location: The Museum of Historic Annapolis is at 99 Main Street, Annapolis, MD 21401.
- Admission: The admission fee is $7 for people aged 8 and more, but it is free for museum members, kids under 7 years old, and people who get SNAP or WIC through the Museums for All program.
- Registration: You can register ahead of time, but it’s not necessary.
Family Friendly Hands On Activities
On Presidents’ Day, the Museum of Historic Annapolis turns it into a party where people of all ages can have fun and learn about American history at the same time.
- Patriotic Craft Station: Make your own patriotic art project using American flags, symbols, and colors. These projects let kids and their families work together on something fun while learning about the country’s history.
- Museum Scavenger Hunt: A guided scavenger hunt through the museum’s exhibits will help you find interesting facts about presidents, historical items, and important events in American history.
- Book Nook — Presidential Reads: Look through a carefully chosen group of children’s books that have stories about important people in history, like Abraham Lincoln and George Washington. Young readers can get more into presidential stories in this quiet area.
- Guided Tours: The museum offers two guided tours of important exhibitions from 11:30 AM and 2:00 PM.
Accessibility & Inclusivity
The Museum of Historic Annapolis works hard to ensure that everyone who comes feels welcome. A lift brings visitors to all museum levels and bathrooms, and an accessible entrance is right of the main doors.
This inclusive setup makes it easy for families, seniors, and guests with different abilities to enjoy the event. Individuals who experience sensory issues can get KultureCity® Sensory Bags to make their visit more comfortable.
Deep Dive: Highlighting Presidents’ Stories
For Presidents’ Day, the Museum of Historic Annapolis has fun events like curated book readings and scavenger hunts that will help you learn more about the lives and legacies of some of America’s most important presidents. All of these help kids and adults understand history in a very real way.
George Washington — The Father of the Nation
- Who he was: George Washington was the first President of the United States and a major figure in the American Revolution.
- Why he matters: He was important because he led the Continental Army to win over the British and helped make the early U.S. government what it is today.
- Fun local connection: Washington visited Annapolis a lot and made history here in 1783 when he resigned as commander in chief, paving the way for civilian control in the U.S. military.
The life of Washington as an assistant, a surveyor, and even the president is the testament of how leadership and character can be used to construct a new nation.
Abraham Lincoln — Leader Through Division
- Who he was: Abraham Lincoln was the 16th President of the United States. He led the country through the Civil War and kept the Union together when the country was very split.
- Why he’s celebrated: The Emancipation Proclamation, which Lincoln released, started the process of freeing slaves in Confederate states. He also led the United States through its worst crisis.
- Lincoln’s leadership: His dedication to equality and unity is remembered throughout history. The museum’s children’s reading nook has books about his life and ideas that teach kids about them.
Bringing Stories to Life Through Interactive Learning
There are scavenger hunts, guided walks, and a book corner at the museum that make presidential history real. People do not just read about Washington and Lincoln; they also look at artifacts and hear stories that show how these leaders changed the course of American history. This makes history fun and memorable for families enjoying Presidents’ Day.
What Else to See in Annapolis
If you spend Presidents’ Day at the Museum of Historic Annapolis, you will be in one of the most historic and charming towns in the United States, and there is lots more to see nearby. Annapolis is a great place for a short holiday because it has a lot of history, culture, and beautiful scenery.
Historic Downtown & Colonial Sights
- In the Annapolis Historic District, you can walk along streets with colonial structures, brick sidewalks, and historic sites, such as the Maryland State House, which is the oldest state capitol that is still serving as a legislature.
- The Hampton Harwood House is a well-preserved 18th-century mansion and yard that shows how people lived in the colonies.
- Historic London Town and gardens is a peaceable 23-acre site just outside of downtown that has colonial buildings and beautiful grounds.
Maritime & Museum Experiences
- Take a guided walk across “The Yard” at the U.S. Naval Academy to learn about naval history and see the famous Chapel. You can also learn about American navy history at the U.S. navy Academy Museum.
- Annapolis Maritime Museum & Park tells us about the past of mariners on the Chesapeake Bay and lets us enjoy the views of the water, exhibits, and programs.
- The Banneker Douglass Museum has interesting exhibits and cultural displays about Maryland’s African American past.
Tips for Families & Visitors
Here are some useful, up-to-date tips that will help you plan your day so that your trip to the Museum of Historic Annapolis on Presidents’ Day is fun and stress-free.
Plan Your Timing
- Get There Early: The museum opens at 11:00 AM in the winter, even on Presidents’ Day. Early arrival lets you enjoy all the events, including the 11:30 AM and 2:00 PM guided tours without feeling rushed.
- Length of Visit: It takes most people about an hour and a half to two hours to look at the exhibits and do things, so plan your day accordingly.
Be Comfortable & Prepared
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: The museum is self-guided and has exhibits on several floors, so shoes that are easy on your feet will make it easier to look around.
- Bring a Camera or Phone: Capture the scavenger hunt, projects, entertainment, exhibits, and downtown Annapolis.
Make It a Full Day
Explore Downtown Annapolis: After you visit the museum, eat lunch or a snack at one of the famous restaurants nearby, and then keep going to see more things in the area.
Why Celebrate Presidents’ Day at a Museum
On Presidents’ Day, visiting the Museum of Historic Annapolis is more than enjoyable. All ages can learn about America’s presidents and the events that shaped the nation while enjoying a national holiday. There is a deeper and more meaningful way to learn about the past than just reading a textbook. Museums keep and tell the stories of important historical items and events.
Education Through Exploration
- Museums are fun and dynamic places to learn, especially for families and kids. Scavenger hunts and guided tours are fun ways to connect facts with real things and stories.
- These activities make people learn about leadership, civic responsibility and the impact of presidents on American history.
Beyond the Classroom
- Rather than finding things to buy or sit at the TV during a holiday, visiting a museum fosters curiosity, speculation, and consideration of the history of the country.
- Through exhibits, stories, and hands-on activities, Presidents’ Day is a chance to get close to history. This makes it fun and important for everyone.
FAQs
Do I Need to Register?
You should register ahead of time to secure your spot, but you can also just show up at any time between 11:00 AM and 3:00 PM.
What About Parking?
There is not a designated parking lot at the museum, but there are many public parking garages and street parking spots in central Annapolis, such as Gott’s Court Garage or Calvert Street Garage, that are only a short walk away.
Are There Age Limits?
There are activities for people of all ages.. Crafts and treasure hunts are especially fun for kids.
Is the Event Rain or Shine?
Since this event is inside at the museum, rain or cold weather probably will not change the plans. Just wear clothes that are right for the season when you go into downtown Annapolis.
Conclusion
On Presidents’ Day, the Museum of Historic Annapolis is the greatest venue to honor and learn about America’s presidents. Hands-on activities, museum exploration, and family-friendly fun make this event fun for people of all ages who want to learn, meet, and enjoy the holiday together.
Mark your calendar and sign up early to guarantee a spot. Have fun at the event! Tell your friends and family about it or write a message below about what you are most looking forward to!