What’s Open and Closed on Presidents Day 2026? A Comprehensive Guide to the Federal Holiday

Presidents Day 2026 falls on Monday, February 16, marking one of the 12 annual federal holidays observed across the United States.

Officially designated as Washington's Birthday, the day was originally established to honor the birth of George Washington, the nation’s first president. Over time, the holiday has evolved in popular usage to recognize all U.S. presidents and is now widely referred to as Presidents Day.
As with most federal holidays, Presidents Day affects government operations, financial institutions, mail delivery, and certain businesses.

However, many retailers and restaurants remain open, often featuring special promotions. Below is a detailed overview of what Americans can expect to be open and closed on February 16, 2026.

Retail Stores and Major Chains
Shoppers will find that most major retail stores are operating under regular business hours on Presidents Day.

Large national retailers, including Target, have confirmed that stores will remain open throughout the holiday.
Presidents Day has traditionally become associated with retail sales events, particularly for furniture, appliances, and mattresses. Consumers planning to shop in-store are encouraged to verify hours with their local branch, as schedules may vary slightly by location.

Grocery Stores

Most grocery store chains across the country will remain open on February 16. Major supermarkets such as Aldi, Food Lion, Trader Joe’s, and Wegmans are expected to operate under normal or slightly adjusted hours.

While closures are rare among national grocery chains on this holiday, independent and locally owned markets may choose to modify their schedules. Customers are advised to check directly with their neighborhood stores for confirmation.

Restaurants and Fast-Food Establishments
Dining options will largely remain available. The majority of fast-food chains and casual dining restaurants will serve customers on Presidents Day. National brands such as Burger King, Chick-fil-A, IHOP, Taco Bell, and Subway typically maintain regular operations during federal holidays.

That said, hours may vary depending on the franchise owner or local management decisions. Calling ahead or reviewing online listings can help avoid inconvenience.
Pharmacies and Drugstores
Consumers needing prescriptions or over-the-counter medications will generally find pharmacy chains open. CVS Pharmacy locations, for example, are expected to operate during their regular hours.

However, while retail sections may be open, pharmacy counters in certain locations could operate on reduced holiday schedules. It is advisable to check ahead, particularly for time-sensitive prescriptions.

Banks and Financial Institutions

Unlike retail businesses, most banks will be closed on Presidents Day. The holiday is recognized by the Federal Reserve, meaning that major financial institutions suspend in-branch services for the day.

Customers will not be able to conduct routine banking transactions at physical branches. However, online banking platforms, ATMs, and mobile banking applications will remain accessible, allowing customers to deposit checks, transfer funds, and monitor accounts.
Because Presidents Day is a Federal Reserve holiday, certain transactions—such as wire transfers and ACH payments—may be delayed until the next business day, Tuesday, February 17.

Stock Market and Trading

Investors should note that U.S. financial markets will not operate on Presidents Day. Both the New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq observe the federal holiday, listing Washington’s Birthday among their official closures.

As a result, stock and bond markets will be closed on Monday, February 16, with trading scheduled to resume on Tuesday, February 17. Investors should plan accordingly, particularly if managing time-sensitive trades or settlements.
Postal Services and Package Delivery
Mail delivery will be suspended on Presidents Day. The United States Postal Service (USPS) will not deliver regular mail, and post office retail locations will be closed in observance of the holiday.

Customers can still access select services online at USPS.com, including postage purchases, tracking information, and package scheduling. Self-service kiosks in certain locations may also remain operational.
Private shipping companies, however, will continue many of their services. Both UPS and FedEx are expected to make deliveries on Presidents Day. FedEx has indicated that some service adjustments may occur, including early pickups or modified drop-box schedules in certain areas.

Consumers expecting important deliveries should check tracking information for updates specific to their region.
Government Offices and Public Services
As a federal holiday, Presidents Day results in the closure of most federal government offices. This includes non-essential federal agencies and administrative offices. Many state and local government offices also close, though this can vary depending on jurisdiction.

Public schools and some private institutions may close for the holiday or incorporate it into mid-winter break schedules. Court systems at the federal level will not conduct regular proceedings.
Emergency services, including police, fire departments, and hospitals, will continue to operate as usual.

Planning Ahead

Presidents Day provides an opportunity for reflection on American leadership and history while also offering a long weekend for many workers and students. For consumers, it is primarily characterized by retail sales and modified service schedules.
To avoid disruptions:
Complete in-person banking needs before Monday.

Anticipate no regular mail delivery.
Confirm local store and restaurant hours.
Plan financial transactions and stock trades around market closures.

Although many businesses remain open, essential public institutions—including banks, federal offices, and postal services—pause operations in observance of the holiday.
With appropriate planning, Americans can take advantage of the long weekend while minimizing inconvenience.