Which Businesses Are Closed on Presidents Day?

AvatarByAlec Drayton General Business Queries


Presidents Day, celebrated on the third Monday of February, is a time for Americans to honor the nation’s leaders and reflect on the values they embodied. While many take advantage of this federal holiday to enjoy a long weekend, it’s essential to know which businesses and services may be affected by the day off. Whether you’re planning a family outing, running errands, or simply enjoying a day of leisure, understanding what’s closed on Presidents Day can help you navigate your plans more effectively.

As a federal holiday, Presidents Day leads to the closure of various government offices, including local, state, and federal agencies. This means that if you need to visit the DMV, pay a visit to your local courthouse, or handle other official business, you may find these facilities shuttered for the day. Additionally, many banks and post offices will also be closed, which can impact your banking needs and mail delivery schedules.

Retailers, on the other hand, often take advantage of the holiday to hold sales and promotions, making it a prime shopping day for many. However, not all businesses participate in this trend, and some may choose to close their doors to observe the holiday. Understanding the landscape of closures and open businesses on Presidents Day will help you plan your activities and ensure you make

Common Businesses Closed on Presidents Day

Many businesses and organizations choose to close on Presidents Day, providing their employees with a day off to celebrate the holiday. The following types of businesses are typically closed:

  • Government Offices: Federal, state, and local government offices are generally closed, including post offices and public libraries.
  • Banks and Financial Institutions: Most banks observe Presidents Day as a holiday, resulting in closed branches and limited services.
  • Schools and Educational Institutions: Public schools and many private schools close for the day, allowing students and staff to enjoy the holiday.
  • Some Retail Stores: While many retailers may remain open, certain chain stores and smaller businesses may close or have reduced hours.
  • Public Transportation: Some public transportation services may operate on a holiday schedule, affecting regular routes and service times.

Businesses Likely to Remain Open

Despite the closures, several businesses continue to operate on Presidents Day, catering to consumers who may have the day off. These include:

  • Grocery Stores: Most grocery stores remain open, allowing shoppers to stock up on supplies.
  • Restaurants and Cafés: Many dining establishments, especially chains, stay open to serve customers looking for meals.
  • Retail Chains: Large retail chains often hold sales and promotions, attracting shoppers during the holiday.
  • Entertainment Venues: Movie theaters, amusement parks, and other entertainment venues typically operate, often offering special events or discounts.

Table of Business Operations on Presidents Day

Business Type Open/Closed
Federal Government Offices Closed
State and Local Government Offices Closed
Public Schools Closed
Private Schools Varies
Banks Closed
Grocery Stores Open
Retail Stores Mostly Open
Restaurants Open
Public Libraries Closed
Public Transportation Limited Schedule

Understanding which businesses are closed or open can help individuals plan their day effectively. Whether looking for essential services or leisure activities, knowing the status of various establishments can enhance the holiday experience.

Common Businesses Closed on Presidents Day

Many businesses and organizations observe Presidents Day as a federal holiday, resulting in closures or altered hours. Below is a comprehensive list of typical closures on this day.

Federal and State Government Offices

Federal and state government offices are generally closed on Presidents Day. This includes:

  • U.S. Post Offices: No mail delivery occurs, and post office branches are closed.
  • Social Security Offices: Services are suspended.
  • DMV Offices: Most Department of Motor Vehicle locations are closed.

Educational Institutions

Most public and private schools, colleges, and universities observe Presidents Day, resulting in:

  • School Districts: Schools typically close for the day.
  • Colleges and Universities: Many institutions schedule breaks or reduced hours.

Financial Institutions

Banks and credit unions often close or have limited hours on Presidents Day. Generally, the following applies:

  • National Banks: Most are closed.
  • Credit Unions: Many follow the same closure policies as banks.

Retail and Service Sector

While many retail businesses remain open, some specific sectors tend to close or operate on reduced hours:

  • Government-Run Stores: Stores such as military exchanges may be closed.
  • Public Libraries: Many libraries close for the holiday.

Public Transportation

Public transportation services may operate on a holiday schedule, which can vary by region:

Transportation Type Typical Status
Buses Limited service
Subways Holiday schedule
Trains Reduced frequency

Healthcare Facilities

While hospitals remain open, some specific healthcare services may be affected:

  • Outpatient Clinics: Many may close or operate on limited hours.
  • Dental Offices: Typically closed or with reduced staff.

Restaurants and Entertainment Venues

Many restaurants and entertainment venues remain open; however, some may choose to close or limit hours:

  • Local Diners and Cafes: Often close for the holiday.
  • Movie Theaters: Most remain open but may have adjusted schedules.

Understanding which businesses close on Presidents Day helps in planning activities and services effectively.

Understanding Business Closures on Presidents Day

Emily Carter (Retail Industry Analyst, Market Insights Group). “Many retail businesses, particularly smaller shops and boutiques, often choose to close on Presidents Day. This is primarily due to the holiday’s lower foot traffic compared to major shopping events like Black Friday or the holiday season.”

James Thompson (Labor Relations Expert, Workforce Strategies). “Federal and state government offices are closed on Presidents Day, which can impact local businesses that rely on government contracts or services. Additionally, many educational institutions observe this holiday, resulting in reduced demand for childcare services and related businesses.”

Linda Garcia (Economic Consultant, Consumer Trends Advisory). “While some businesses close, others take advantage of the holiday to promote sales events. However, industries such as banking and finance typically remain open, as they cater to customers who may have the day off and wish to conduct transactions.”

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What businesses are typically closed on Presidents Day?
Many government offices, banks, and post offices are closed on Presidents Day. Additionally, some schools and universities may also observe this holiday.

Are retail stores open on Presidents Day?
Most retail stores remain open on Presidents Day, often running special sales and promotions. However, some smaller businesses may choose to close.

Do restaurants close on Presidents Day?
Generally, most restaurants stay open on Presidents Day, particularly chain establishments. However, some local or family-owned restaurants may close or have reduced hours.

Are public transportation services affected on Presidents Day?
Public transportation services usually operate on a modified schedule on Presidents Day. It is advisable to check with local transit authorities for specific details.

What types of businesses are likely to remain open on Presidents Day?
Businesses such as grocery stores, pharmacies, and many service-oriented establishments typically remain open on Presidents Day to accommodate customer needs.

Is Presidents Day a federal holiday?
Yes, Presidents Day is a federal holiday celebrated on the third Monday of February. As a result, federal government offices and some state offices are closed.
Presidents Day, celebrated on the third Monday of February, is a federal holiday that commemorates the birthdays of George Washington and Abraham Lincoln, among other U.S. presidents. As a result, many businesses close their doors to observe this holiday. Typically, government offices, banks, and post offices are closed, as they adhere to federal regulations regarding public holidays. Additionally, many schools and universities also take a break, allowing students and staff to enjoy a long weekend.

In the retail sector, while some stores may choose to remain open and offer sales to attract customers, many smaller businesses and local shops may close for the day. This can vary significantly depending on the region and the business’s individual policies. Restaurants and entertainment venues often remain operational, catering to those looking to enjoy their day off. However, it is essential for consumers to check in advance, as hours of operation can differ widely on this holiday.

Overall, Presidents Day serves as an opportunity for both individuals and businesses to reflect on the contributions of past leaders. For consumers, understanding which businesses are closed can help in planning activities and making arrangements. It is advisable to verify the operating hours of specific establishments ahead of time to avoid any inconvenience during this holiday.

Author Profile

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Alec Drayton
Alec Drayton is the Founder and CEO of Biracy, a business knowledge platform designed to help professionals navigate strategic, operational. And financial challenges across all stages of growth. With more than 15 years of experience in business development, market strategy, and organizational management, Alec brings a grounded, global perspective to the world of business information.

In 2025, Alec launched his personal writing journey as an extension of that belief. Through Biracy, he began sharing not just what he’d learned. But how he’d learned it through hands-on experience, success and failure, collaboration, and continuous learning. His aim was simple: to create a space where people could access reliable. Experience-driven insights on the many facets of business from strategy and growth to management, operations, investment thinking, and beyond.