Presidents Day 2023: What’s Open and Closed
Presidents Day, a federal holiday commemorating the birthdays of George Washington and Abraham Lincoln, falls on Monday, February 17, 2023. While some sectors observe this holiday, others remain operational, providing essential services.
Closed on Presidents Day
- Banks: Major banks like Capital One, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, PNC, Chase, Truist, and CitiBank will close their branches on Presidents Day.
- Post Offices: U.S. Postal Service post offices will suspend operations on the holiday, and mail delivery will not occur.
- Government Offices: Federal, state, and local government offices will be closed for the holiday.
- Stock Market: The Nasdaq, New York Stock Exchange, and U.S. bond markets will not operate on Presidents Day.
Open on Presidents Day
- Grocery Stores: Most grocery stores will remain open with regular business hours.
- Retail Stores: Many retail stores will operate as usual, offering sales and promotions.
- Restaurants: Restaurants generally stay open on Presidents Day, providing dining and takeout options.
- UPS and FedEx: UPS pickup and delivery services will be available, and UPS Store locations will be open. FedEx pickup and delivery services will also operate, with FedEx Office locations open as well.
Holiday Observations
Contrary to popular belief, Presidents Day is not a commemoration of all U.S. presidents’ lives and birthdays. Instead, it specifically celebrates the birthdays of former presidents George Washington and Abraham Lincoln.
Historical Significance
Presidents Day has a rich history dating back to the late 19th century. Originally known as Washington’s Birthday, it was the first federal holiday to honor an individual’s birth date. In 1968, the Uniform Monday Holiday Act moved the celebration to the third Monday in February, creating a three-day weekend for many Americans.
Impact on Business
While some businesses close for the holiday, others remain open, capitalizing on the increased foot traffic and consumer spending associated with the long weekend. For example, restaurants often offer special menus and promotions, while retailers host sales and discounts to attract customers.
Government Services
During the holiday, essential government services, such as police, fire, and emergency medical services, will continue to operate. However, non-essential services, such as permit offices and license bureaus, will be closed.
Travel and Transportation
Public transportation services, such as buses and trains, may operate on a reduced schedule on Presidents Day. Those traveling should check with their local transportation providers for holiday hours.
Conclusion
Presidents Day 2023 will see a mix of closures and operations across various sectors. While federal offices, banks, and post offices will be closed, grocery stores, retail outlets, and restaurants will largely remain open, providing convenience and holiday cheer for Americans.
