r/illinois: The Illinois Reddit Community & Icon Explained

Many Illinois state government offices were closed today, February 12, 2026, in observance of Abraham Lincoln’s birthday, though it is not a federal holiday. The closures include offices such as the Illinois Treasurer’s Office, the Illinois Department of Central Management Services, and all facilities operated by the Illinois Secretary of State, including Driver’s License facilities.

The City of Chicago also observed the holiday with city officials’ offices closed for the day, according to a statement released by the city. Several libraries across the state are also impacted, with all Chicago Public Library locations closed. Yet, not all libraries in the Chicago suburbs followed suit, with many remaining open to the public.

The Illinois National Guard marked the 217th anniversary of Lincoln’s birth with a ceremony at his tomb in Oak Ridge Cemetery in Springfield. Major General Rodney Boyd, The Adjutant General of Illinois and Commander of the Illinois National Guard, presented a wreath on behalf of President Donald J. Trump as part of the 92nd annual American Legion Pilgrimage to Lincoln’s Tomb. Boyd noted Lincoln’s service in the Illinois National Guard during the Blackhawk War in the 1830s, highlighting his unique connection to the organization.

This observance precedes another closure of state offices on Monday, February 16, for Presidents’ Day, a federal holiday. That closure will extend to DMVs, government offices, banks, and the stock market, with no mail delivery scheduled.

Lincoln’s birthday is also recognized as an official school holiday in Illinois, although some school districts may choose to observe Presidents’ Day instead. The University of Illinois Springfield recently concluded its 2025 Beaumont Endowed Lincoln Legacy Lecture Series, which explored the legacy of Lincoln and his era of disruption, including a discussion of the challenges faced by his son, Robert Todd Lincoln, in living under his father’s shadow.