Veterans Day falls on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, marking the annual commemoration to honor U.S. military personnel and their sacrifices. This federal holiday was first established by President Woodrow Wilson in 1919 to recognize the end of World War I.
What began as Armistice Day now encompasses all veterans and is observed as Veterans Day. Although many businesses remain open, some services will be interrupted.
The United States Postal Service (USPS) will be closed on Wednesday, November 11, in observance of Veterans Day. This means there will be no regular mail delivery, caller service, or P.O. box access.
USPS operations will resume on Thursday, November 12, 2026. Private courier services such as Amazon, FedEx, UPS, and DHL will continue operations on November 11, though with limited business hours.
Federal banks and their branches will remain closed for the holiday. Online banking operations, including ATMs, will not be interrupted and will remain in service.
Private banks like Chase, Wells Fargo, and Bank of America will also be closed. The stock market will be open, following normal business hours starting at 9:30 a.m. Leading grocery stores and big-box retailers are likely to remain open, with Walmart, Target, and Costco all planning to maintain normal operating hours.
National Parks are open, and there is good news for visitors: the National Park Service is waiving entrance fees on November 11. This gesture is intended to encourage families to visit these historic sites during the holiday.
While government offices are generally closed, emergency services remain fully operational across the country. Public schools and universities often have varying policies regarding Veterans Day.
While many public school districts close for the day, some may remain open depending on the local academic calendar. It is recommended that parents check with their local school district websites for specific closures.
Public transportation systems, such as buses and subways in major cities, typically operate on a holiday schedule. This often means reduced frequency of service compared to a standard weekday.
Commuters are advised to check their local transit authority's website for updated schedules. Many restaurants and retail chains offer special discounts or free meals to veterans and active-duty military personnel on this day as a token of appreciation.
It is advisable for veterans to carry valid military identification to avail of these offers at participating locations. As the nation prepares to honor those who have served, the focus remains on gratitude and reflection.
Whether you are planning to visit a national park or simply running errands, being aware of these operational changes will help ensure a smooth experience during the federal holiday. In summary, while the postal service and banking institutions will observe the holiday, the retail and stock market sectors will largely remain functional.
Citizens are encouraged to plan their errands accordingly and take advantage of the free access to national parks.