Presidents’ Day 2026 falls on Feb. 16. Check what’s open and closed, including banks, USPS, stock markets, schools, and grocery stores.
Presidents’ Day 2026 falls on Feb. 16 [Photo: X]
Americans will observe Presidents’ Day 2026 on Monday, February 16, marking the third Monday of February and the last federal holiday until Memorial Day in May. As a federal holiday, the day will bring widespread closures across government offices, financial institutions, and mail services, while many retail stores and restaurants will remain open. If you are planning errands, banking, or deliveries, here is a detailed guide to what will operate and what will pause for the holiday.
Presidents’ Day is a federal holiday in the United States. The government officially recognizes it as “Washington’s Birthday,” a day created to honour George Washington, the nation’s first president.
Although many Americans call it Presidents’ Day, federal law still lists the holiday under Washington’s Birthday. Over time, the celebration has expanded to recognize all US presidents, past and present.
The holiday began in 1879 to celebrate George Washington’s birthday, which falls on February 22. Lawmakers later changed the observance in 1971 under the Uniform Monday Holiday Law, moving it to the third Monday of February to create a three-day weekend for workers.
As the holiday shifted dates, many states and businesses began referring to it as Presidents’ Day. The new name reflected a broader purpose, honouring not only Washington but also leaders such as Abraham Lincoln and other US presidents who played key roles in shaping the country.
Today, Americans celebrate Presidents’ Day to remember presidential leadership, reflect on the nation’s history, and recognize the contributions of those who have served in the highest office.
No. All locations of the United States Postal Service will close on Monday, February 16. Regular mail delivery will not run, and retail counters will remain shut.
However, USPS online services will continue to function. Customers can still purchase postage, print shipping labels, and track packages online. Mail delivery will resume on Tuesday, February 17.
Priority Mail Express will be the only mail service operating on the holiday.
Most major banks will close their branches in observance of the federal holiday. This includes Capital One, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, Chase, PNC, Truist, M&T Bank, KeyBank and CitiBank.
Even though physical branches will close, customers can still access ATMs, mobile banking apps, and online banking platforms. Direct deposits and digital transactions will continue, but certain transfers may process on the next business day.
It’s advisable to complete in-person banking before Monday if you need teller services.
Yes. Financial markets will pause trading on February 16.
Both the New York Stock Exchange and the Nasdaq will remain closed for the day. US bond markets will also shut down in observance of the holiday.
Trading activity will resume on Tuesday, February 17.
Unlike USPS, private carriers will continue most of their operations.
UPS will provide regular pickup and delivery services, and UPS Store locations will stay open. However, UPS SurePost and UPS Mail Innovations may experience a one-day delay because they rely partially on USPS for final delivery.
FedEx will operate on a modified schedule. Most pickup and delivery services will run, and FedEx Office locations will remain open, although some freight and express services may adjust timing.
Customers should check local store hours for specific details.
All non-essential federal offices will close on Presidents’ Day. This includes courts, public agencies, and government buildings.
Many public schools, colleges, and libraries will also shut down for the holiday, though policies can vary by district. Parents and students should confirm schedules with their local institutions.
Several states suspend trash and recycling services for the day, so residents may see delays in collection.
Yes. Most grocery chains, retail stores, malls, pharmacies, and restaurants will remain open.
Major retailers such as Walmart, Target, Aldi, Whole Foods, and Costco typically operate during regular business hours. Pharmacies, including CVS and Walgreens, will also open, though some pharmacy counters may reduce hours.
Restaurants, coffee shops, and movie theatres will welcome customers as usual. Many businesses may even offer Presidents’ Day sales and promotions.
Still, smaller local businesses may adjust their hours, so it is wise to check ahead before visiting.
