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Holiday Closures

Information on which services, businesses, and institutions are typically closed on public holidays.

Sections

1. Overview of Public Holidays in the United States

The United States observes federal holidays, which are designated by the federal government. On these days, most federal offices, banks, and certain businesses are closed. However, the U.S. does not mandate private businesses to close on federal holidays, so practices can vary.

Federal Holidays (2023-2024)

  1. New Year’s Day (January 1)
  2. Martin Luther King Jr. Day (Third Monday in January)
  3. Presidents’ Day (Third Monday in February)
  4. Memorial Day (Last Monday in May)
  5. Juneteenth National Independence Day (June 19)
  6. Independence Day (July 4)
  7. Labor Day (First Monday in September)
  8. Columbus Day (Second Monday in October)
  9. Veterans Day (November 11)
  10. Thanksgiving Day (Fourth Thursday in November)
  11. Christmas Day (December 25)

2. National Regulations and General Practices

  • Federal Offices and Services: Federal government offices, including post offices, are closed on federal holidays. Mail delivery does not occur on these days.
  • State and Local Variations: States are not required to observe federal holidays. For example, some states do not recognize Columbus Day or replace it with Indigenous Peoples’ Day.
  • Private Businesses: Private employers are not legally required to provide time off for holidays. Many businesses, however, close or operate on reduced hours during major holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.
  • Schools: Public schools typically close on major holidays, but schedules vary by district. Some holidays, like Veterans Day, may not result in school closures in all areas.

3. Common Closures and Their Impacts

Government Services

  • Closed: Federal, state, and local government offices, including the Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) and Social Security Administration offices.
  • Open: Emergency services (police, fire departments, hospitals) remain operational.

Banks

  • Most banks close on federal holidays, though ATMs and online banking services remain available.

Retail and Grocery Stores

  • Major Holidays (e.g., Thanksgiving, Christmas): Many stores close or operate on reduced hours.
  • Other Holidays: Retailers often remain open, sometimes offering holiday sales (e.g., Presidents’ Day or Labor Day sales).

Transportation

  • Public Transit: Many public transit systems operate on a reduced or holiday schedule. Check local transit authority websites for updates.
  • Airports: Airports remain open, but holiday travel can lead to delays and crowded conditions.

Healthcare

  • Hospitals and emergency rooms remain open, but non-emergency services (e.g., clinics, pharmacies) may close or operate on reduced hours.

Restaurants

  • Many restaurants remain open, especially on holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas, but reservations are often required due to high demand.

4. Costs and Considerations

  • Holiday Premiums: Some services, such as rideshares, taxis, and delivery services, may charge higher rates during holidays due to increased demand.
  • Travel Costs: Airfare, train tickets, and hotel rates often increase around major holidays, especially Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s.
  • Tipping: It is customary to tip service workers (e.g., restaurant staff, delivery drivers) more generously during the holiday season.

5. Planning Tips for Visitors and Immigrants

Before the Holiday

  • Check Schedules: Verify the operating hours of businesses, government offices, and public transit systems in advance.
  • Stock Up: Purchase groceries, medications, and other essentials ahead of time, especially for holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas when many stores close.
  • Make Reservations: Book restaurants, transportation, and accommodations early, as demand increases during holidays.

During the Holiday

  • Expect Crowds: Popular tourist attractions and shopping centers may be crowded, especially during long holiday weekends.
  • Be Flexible: Reduced hours and closures may require adjustments to your plans.

After the Holiday

  • Delayed Services: Expect delays in mail delivery, banking transactions, and other services immediately following a holiday.

6. Country-Specific Considerations

  • Cultural Diversity: The U.S. is culturally diverse, and some communities celebrate additional holidays (e.g., Lunar New Year, Diwali, Eid). These are not federal holidays but may impact local businesses and schools in certain areas.
  • Holiday Sales: Many holidays, such as Black Friday (the day after Thanksgiving) and Labor Day, are associated with major retail sales events.
  • Weather Impacts: Winter holidays (e.g., Christmas, New Year’s) may coincide with snowstorms in northern states, potentially disrupting travel and services.

7. Key Resources

  • USPS Holiday Schedule: www.usps.com
  • Federal Holiday Calendar: www.opm.gov
  • Local Transit Authorities: Check city-specific websites for holiday schedules.
  • Travel Alerts: Visit www.tsa.gov for airport updates and www.amtrak.com for train schedules.

By understanding these details and planning accordingly, visitors and immigrants can navigate holiday closures in the United States with ease.