One of the many ways Americans practice gratitude in the month of November is by honoring those who have served in the U.S. military. This federal holiday is always observed on November 11—even if that falls on a weekday, as is the case this year.
Many federal services take the day off to give workers time to observe Veterans Day. It can get a bit confusing to know how this impacts what’s open and closed.
The ongoing federal government shutdown adds another layer of uncertainty. Before we clear all that up, let’s take a look at the history of the day.
A brief history of Veterans Day
World War I was supposed to be the war that ended all wars. On November 11, 1918, a temporary armistice went into effect at 11 a.m., which ended fighting between the Allied nations and Germany.
This halting of hostilities became permanent on June 28, 1919, when the Treaty of Versailles was signed, but the November 11 ceasefire would have a historical stronghold and continue to be celebrated.
The following year, President Woodrow Wilson proclaimed November 11 Armistice Day. Congress followed suit eight years later with a concurrent resolution.
Unfortunately, as we are all too aware, WWI did not end all wars. The United States went on to fight in World War II and get entangled in conflicts in Korea, Vietnam, and Iraq, to name just a few.
The holiday evolved to honor not just those soldiers who served in WWI but in any of the conflicts that came after. In 1954, Congress officially amended the Act of 1938 to include all veterans.
The Uniform Holiday Bill of 1968 moved the observance to Monday, October 25, 1971. People did not love this change, so President Gerald R. Ford reversed the decision in 1975, which took effect in 1978.
Are banks open on Veterans Day?
No. Veterans Day is a federal holiday, so most major banks are closed. You can turn to online banking in a pinch. Also, most ATMs are operational on Veterans Day.
What about the post office?
No. The United States Postal Service is closed on Veterans Day.
Is mail delivered on Veterans Day?
No. You will get a day off from bills and junk mail. The exception is USPS Priority Mail Express, a premium service that guarantees delivery even on federal holidays.
Are FedEx and UPS open?
Yes. FedEx locations are open, and most services will run as normal. Some delivery and pickup times for standard FedEx Express/ground services are modified because of the holiday.
UPS stores are also open for business. Most pickup and delivery services will run as usual, but UPS Ground Saver and UPS Mail Innovations will need an additional day for deliveries.
Is the stock market open on Veterans Day?
Yes. The New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq are open for trading.
What about schools?
No. Most schools are not in session on Veterans Day. Some districts even took November 10 off to give everyone a four-day weekend.
Are retail stores and restaurants open on Veterans Day?
Yes. Most major retail stores and eateries are open for business. Some businesses even offer discounts or deals for service members.
Applebee’s, California Pizza Kitchen, and Red Robin are all offering a free entrée. Knott’s Berry Farm in Buena Park, California, is offering veterans and their families discounted tickets.
The Nashville Zoo is offering free admission for veterans and their immediate family members. Here’s a full list of deals and discounts compiled by the American Legion.
What about pharmacies?
Most pharmacies are open, including major chains like Walgreens and CVS, but some locations may observe different hours in the pharmacy section, so it’s best to check with your local store if you need medication.
