George Washington and Abraham Lincoln Didn't Celebrate Their Birthdays

The first U.S. presidents were not fans of extravagant birthday parties and parades.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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While modern U.S. presidents are known to host lavish birthday celebrations, George Washington and Abraham Lincoln did not share that enthusiasm. Washington barely acknowledged his birthday in his diary, and there are no records of him doing anything special to mark the occasion. Lincoln also did not celebrate his birthday as an adult, though his wife Mary did once make him a special almond cake that he enjoyed.

Why it matters

The lack of birthday celebrations by Washington and Lincoln reflects their humble beginnings and focus on their presidential duties rather than self-promotion. This contrasts with the more extravagant birthday events held by recent U.S. presidents, highlighting how the office and public expectations have evolved over time.

The details

According to the executive director of the George Washington Presidential Library at Mount Vernon, Washington paid little attention to his birthday and there is no record of him doing anything special to mark the occasion beyond a brief mention in his diary. Similarly, Lincoln, who came from very humble beginnings, never celebrated his birthday as an adult, though his wife Mary is said to have once made him a special almond cake that he called 'the best cake I ever ate'.

George Washington's birthday is February 22nd.
Abraham Lincoln's birthday is February 12th.
Presidents' Day is always the third Monday in February, ranging from February 15th to the 21st.

The players