Veterans Day 2024: What’s open and closed? Here’s your guide
Veterans Day 2024: What’s open and closed? Here’s your guide
Veterans Day 2024: What’s open and closed? Here’s your guide
Veterans Day 2024: What’s Open and Closed
Veterans Day, celebrated on November 11 each year, honors all U.S. military veterans. Since it’s a federal holiday, it brings specific closures and operating hours changes in various sectors. Here’s a comprehensive guide to what’s open and closed on Veterans Day 2024, falling on Monday, November 11.
Government Offices and Services
Federal Government
Closed: Federal government offices, including Social Security Administration, IRS, and federal courts.
Open: Military facilities remain operational as they honor the service of veterans.
State and Local Government
State and local government closures may vary depending on the area. In most states:
Closed: State courts, motor vehicle departments, and other government offices.
Open or Limited Hours: Some city and county offices may be open but with modified hours.
Postal and Delivery Services
U.S. Postal Service
Closed: No regular mail delivery or in-person services at post offices.
Exception: Priority Mail Express will still operate on Veterans Day.
Private Carriers
Open: FedEx, UPS, and other carriers will mostly continue normal services, but some may have limited holiday hours at customer service locations. It’s advisable to check with specific carriers for details.
Veterans Day 2024: What’s open and closed? Here’s your guide
Schools and Educational Institutions
Closed: Most public schools observe Veterans Day and will remain closed. However, some schools may stay open depending on the district and state policies.
Open: Colleges and universities vary widely; some hold classes, while others close or hold special events honoring veterans.
Financial Services
Banks
Closed: Many banks, including larger institutions like Chase, Wells Fargo, and Bank of America, will be closed in observance of the holiday.
ATMs and Online Banking: These services remain operational, allowing customers to access their accounts and conduct transactions.
Stock Market
Open: Both the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and NASDAQ remain open on Veterans Day as it is not a stock market holiday.
Retail Stores and Shopping Malls
Open: Most retail stores, shopping centers, and malls will be open, often with special discounts and offers for veterans and active-duty military personnel. Major retailers like Walmart, Target, and Costco typically operate under regular hours.
Holiday Sales: Many retailers offer Veterans Day sales and discounts, which are available both online and in-store. This is a popular day for deals on clothing, electronics, and home goods.
Grocery Stores and Pharmacies
Open: Grocery stores and pharmacies generally operate as usual, though some may have reduced hours. For instance, CVS, Walgreens, and major supermarket chains are typically open on Veterans Day.
Pharmacy Services: Pharmacy hours may vary, especially in-store locations within larger retail stores, so it’s recommended to check ahead.
Restaurants and Food Services
Open: Most restaurants remain open, and many honor veterans with special discounts or free meals. Some popular chains participating include Applebee’s, Olive Garden, and Cracker Barrel, but it’s best to check for any special offers in advance.
Transportation Services
Public Transportation
Modified Schedule: Many public transit systems run on a holiday or weekend schedule. Services may be less frequent, so travelers should check local transit websites for details.
Airports and Flights
Open: Airports and flights continue normal operations, though security lines may be longer as more people travel over the holiday weekend.
Recreational Facilities and National Parks
Open: National Parks often waive entrance fees on Veterans Day to honor service members, making it an excellent opportunity to visit parks like Yellowstone, the Grand Canyon, and others.
Community Centers and Gyms: Many are open but may have reduced hours, especially those operated by local governments.
Garbage Collection and Utility Services
Varies by Area: Trash collection often follows a modified schedule, with some cities postponing services by a day. Utility companies generally remain operational, though customer service centers may be closed.
Veterans Day 2024: What’s open and closed? Here’s your guide
Veterans Day 2024: What’s open and closed? Here’s your guide
Summary
Veterans Day 2024 is widely observed across different sectors with various closures and reduced hours, particularly affecting federal and state government offices, schools, and postal services. Meanwhile, retail stores, restaurants, and many private services remain open, often with discounts and special offerings to honor veterans. For the most accurate information, especially if you’re planning to visit specific locations or need particular services, it’s always best to check with local entities as the holiday approaches.