What’s open and closed on Memorial Day 2024? Banks, stock markets, USPS, stores and more
Monday, May 27 is Memorial Day.
While many Americans will enjoy the extra sleep, the day off work, and the family barbecue, the true meaning of the federal holiday is somber. It is meant to be a day of remembrance for those who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces.
So, as you enjoy the unofficial start of summer, take a moment to honor those who have made the ultimate sacrifice. Due to the holiday, many establishments will not be operating as usual. Here’s a look at what’s open and what’s closed.
Quick history lesson
The roots of Memorial Day can be traced back to Civil war. At its end, many communities – often organized by women – would come together to decorate the soldiers’ graves with flowers. This will happen in the spring as the flowers bloom. Memorial Day was first called Decoration Day because of the activity.
On May 5, 1868, Major General John A. Logan is formalizing things with his release General Order No. 11, also known as the “Memorial Day Law.” He was president of the Grand Army of the Republic, an organization formed by the Union of Veterans. He declared that May 30 would be Memorial Day.
Unfortunately, many wars since then have been fought beyond our internal battles. The holiday was expanded to include them as well. Congress consent Uniform Monday Holiday Act in 1968, changing the now official federal holiday to the last Monday in May. This came into effect in 1971, making a three-day weekend possible for many and causing some establishments to take the day off.
Banks and other financial services
The bad news is that the actual banks won’t be open on Memorial Day. The good news is that you can complete many of the same errands or tasks through online banking, apps, and ATMs, all of which are available. Many toll-free helplines are also still available during the holiday.
Restaurants and shops
Most major retailers, such as grocery stores and convenience stores, will be open for business. You can get last minute items for your BBQ. Many are likely to have holiday sales, including major retail chains such as… Goal And Walmartwhich offers discounted prices on spring-related items.
Likewise, most large restaurant chains will be open, including most fast food chains such as McDonald’s, Wendy’s, Taco Bell and Burger King. It’s always a good idea to double-check in advance, although smaller establishments and independent restaurants may decide to take the day off.
Post office
Regular mail will have to wait because Memorial Day is Memorial Day Postal holidayWhich means the US Postal Service (USPS) will be closed. You will not receive any messages unless they are delivered Harry Potter style.
Stock market
Trading in the stock market also stopped. The NYSE and NASDAQ are closed every year on Memorial Day.
Schools
Most schools also have a day off. For many schools, depending on the state, this is the last break until summer break. It’s the beginning of the end of the school year.
Government offices
All non-essential government offices will be closed for the federal holiday. Employees will also be given a paid day off.
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