Presidents Day 2018: What is it, how did it start and is it a federal holiday?

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Presidents Day is an annual American holiday that honours George Washington.

Every year, on the third Monday in February, US citizens enjoy a three-day weekend to mark the federal holiday.

How did it start?

The tradition began in honour of President Washington, the country’s first leader whose birthday falls on 22 February.

It became a national holiday in 1968, when the US Congress passed a measure known as the Uniform Monday Holiday Act.

The day is also believed to celebrate Abraham Lincoln, America's 16th President, who was born on 16 February.

Although it is commonly referred to as Presidents Day, the federal government still recognises it as “Washington’s Birthday”.

How is it marked?

Every year, carnivals and parades take place across the country.

It is also a big shopping day, as Americans hit the sales that take place over the bank holiday weekend.

The day is popularly viewed as an opportunity to celebrate all US presidents past and present.

But in 2017, after Donald Trump’s election, widespread protests took place in dozens of cities across the country.

Protesters also held rallies outside London’s Houses of Parliament, and in Orkney.