Presidents Day 2026: Are schools closed? What’s open and what’s not

Presidents Day 2026: If you’re planning errands around the holiday today, you may be wondering what’s open and closed for Presidents Day 2026. The federal holiday, observed every year on the third Monday in February, often changes business hours across the country.

This year, Presidents Day 2026 falls on Monday, Feb. 16. Before heading out, it’s worth checking how the holiday today could affect your plans, from mail delivery to grocery runs and the stock market.



ALSO READ: Quote of the Day by Maya Angelou: 'There is no greater agony than bearing…'—Inspiring quotes by the world-famous author

When is Presidents Day 2026 and what does it celebrate?

If you’re wondering when Presidents Day 2026 takes place, it falls on Feb. 16. The holiday was first declared in 1879 to officially recognize George Washington’s Birthday, which is Feb. 22, 1732.

In 1971, the observance shifted to the third Monday of February. While it is still formally called Washington’s Birthday, the name Presidents Day has become widely used to honor all U.S. presidents.

However, most grocery stores, retail chains, pharmacies, shipping companies and major restaurants will remain open. Here’s a full breakdown of what’s open and closed, as per a report by NBC Washington and USA Today.

ALSO READ: Employee takes WFH within a week of joining without informing boss on an overseas business trip - Internet says she crossed boundaries

What is closed on Presidents Day 2026?

Since it is a federal holiday, all non-essential federal agencies will be closed. That includes the U.S. Post Office, meaning regular mail delivery will not run.

Banks, libraries, and most government offices will also shut their doors for the day.

Are schools closed on Presidents Day 2026?

Schools typically close as well in observance of the holiday.

Is the stock market open on Presidents Day?

Stock markets will pause trading. The New York Stock Exchange, Nasdaq, S&P 500 and bond markets will all be closed on Monday, Feb. 16. Trading resumes on Tuesday, Feb. 17.

What’s open on Presidents Day?

Despite federal closures, many businesses will remain open. Major grocery and retail chains including Aldi, Walmart, Target, Whole Foods and Costco plan to operate during regular business hours.

Pharmacies such as Walgreens and CVS will also stay open, although individual pharmacy counters may run on reduced schedules depending on location, as per a report by NBC Washington and USA Today.

Shipping services will continue operating. While the U.S. Postal Service is closed, UPS and FedEx will still provide shipping and mailing services, though delivery times could vary.

Most large restaurant chains, including McDonalds, Starbucks and Chick-Fil-A — are expected to remain open. For smaller, local businesses, it’s always a good idea to confirm holiday hours before visiting, as per a report by NBC Washington and USA Today.

Who has the day off?

Federal holidays are observed by the federal government, so federal employees generally have the day off. When federal holidays fall on a weekend, they may be observed on the nearest weekday, typically Monday or Friday.

FAQs

Is the stock market open on Presidents Day 2026?
No. The New York Stock Exchange, Nasdaq, S&P 500 and bond markets will be closed. Trading resumes on Feb. 17.

Will mail be delivered on Presidents Day?
No. The U.S. Postal Service will be closed, though UPS and FedEx will continue operating.