Are Banks Open on Presidents’ Day 2013? What’s Open, What’s Closed in Urbandale?

Perhaps never in the history of U.S. holidays has one been so convoluted as Presidents’ Day, which will be observed Monday, Feb. 18.

In some other places, the holiday is called George Washington’s Birthday – which actually isn’t until Feb. 22, but is celebrated on the third Monday of February due to the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, congressional tinkering that set the stage for all the confusion in the first place.

Some say the holiday honors Washington and Abraham Lincoln, whose birthday isn’t on Feb. 18, either. Lincoln was born Feb. 12, 1809.

Others view the day as honoring all presidents, past and present.

So whether you’re honoring President Washington or President Obama and everyone in between, here’s what’s open and what’s closed in Urbandale and around the area:

Federal government offices are closed, but state of Iowa and Polk County offices are open.

There will be no mail delivery.

Most, but not all banks, will be closed, according to the Iowa Bankers Association. Call ahead.

Urbandale Community Schools will be closed for professional development.

The Urbandale Public Library will be closed, but online resources are still available.

Most businesses will be open and many will offer special Presidents’ Day sales and promotions.

Presidents’ Day is a holiday for Patch.com.