Presidents Day 2026: Is it a federal holiday in the US and is the post office open? Here are the details

Presidents Day 2026 falls on Monday, February 16, and is observed nationwide as a federal holiday. Officially known as Washington’s Birthday, the day commemorates the legacy of George Washington and has gradually become connected with recognizing multiple U.S. presidents. While several government-linked services pause operations, much of daily life continues as usual, mainly in retail, dining, and delivery services.

Knowing what stays open and what shuts down can help people plan errands, shopping, and financial tasks without last-minute surprises.

Retail Stores and Grocery Chains

Shoppers will continue to have numerous options on Presidents Day. Big-box retailers and grocery shops are largely functioning on standard schedules.

Target will be open during regular functioning hours, a spokesperson confirmed with CBS News.

Additionally, grocery shopping will not be interrupted for most households. Significant grocery shops which include Aldi, Food Lion, Trader Joe's and Wegmans, will be functioning on Monday, February 16. Customers can anticipate normal access to food, household essentials, and daily supplies during the holiday.

Restaurants, Fast Food, and Pharmacies

Dining choices remain widely available on Presidents Day, making it simple for families and people to eat out or grab meals.

Most fast-food chains will welcome customers on Presidents Day like Burger King, Chick-fil-A, IHOP, Taco Bell and Subway. Because hours can vary by location, diners are urged to confirm schedules in advance. Restaurant chains advise checking ahead just to be sure, as hours may differ by places.

Financial Markets and Mail Services

While shopping and dining continue, significant financial and federal services will halt for the holiday.

The U.S. stock market will be shut, with the New York Stock Exchange listing ‘Washington's Birthday’ as one of the federal holidays it honors. Trading will resume on Tuesday, Feb. 17

Mail delivery will also be impacted. The U.S. Postal Service will pause its mail delivery and retail places on Monday in honoring the federal holiday.

Package Delivery Services

Unlike USPS, private delivery companies will continue functioning..

UPS and FedEx will both carry out deliveries on Presidents Day, although FedEx states that there might be ‘early on-call pickups and drop box pickups (which includes drop box closures) in certain regions. Customers anticipating shipments should be aware that timing may differ slightly according to the location.

FAQs:

Q1. Is Presidents Day a federal holiday?
Yes, Presidents Day is honored as a federal holiday in the United States. Several government-related services close in observance.

Q2. Are banks open on Presidents Day?
Most banks close on Presidents Day due to federal observance. Online banking and ATMs usually remain available.