Memorial Day, observed on the last Monday of May, serves as a time to honor America’s fallen soldiers. Since becoming a federal holiday in 1971, Memorial Day has also evolved into one of the biggest retail sales and travel weekends of the year. Here’s a detailed guide to what you can expect to be open and closed on this significant day.
Memorial Day 2024: Government and Public Services
All government offices including local, state, and federal agencies will be closed in observance of Memorial Day. This includes post offices and courts. Schools will also not be in session as they observe the holiday. Residents must plan accordingly, especially if they rely on public sector services.
Banks and Financial Markets
For those planning to do banking over the holiday, U.S. banks and the stock markets will take a break on Memorial Day. This includes all major banks and financial institutions, which will resume normal operations the following day. If you have urgent banking needs, it’s advisable to complete them ahead of the weekend or utilize online banking services that remain available 24/7.
Shipping and Deliveries
Major courier services like FedEx and UPS have announced that most of their pickup and delivery services will not be available on Memorial Day. Anyone expecting packages or needing to send shipments should anticipate delays or plan to use the services before or after the holiday.
Retail Operations
While most retailers will remain open on Memorial Day, warehouse membership club Costco has announced it will close its doors for the day. This is an opportune time for shoppers to catch holiday sales as many retail stores will offer significant discounts and promotions to attract customers. However, store hours may vary by location, so it’s a good idea to check specific hours if you plan to visit any particular store.
Travel Plans
Memorial Day weekend is not just a time for remembrance but also marks the unofficial start of the summer travel season. According to the auto club AAA, about 43.8 million travelers are expected to venture at least 50 miles from home during the holiday period, which is a 4% increase from last year. This surge in travel could approach the record set in 2005 when 44 million people traveled during the Memorial Day weekend.
AAA also notes that 38.4 million people are expected to travel by car — the highest number recorded since tracking began in 2000. Air travel too will see a significant uptick, with an estimated 3.5 million people taking to the skies. Travelers should prepare for busy roads and airports, and possibly higher prices for tickets and accommodations due to the increased demand.
As Memorial Day approaches, understanding what services and establishments are available can help you plan your day more effectively, whether you’re observing the holiday, shopping the sales, or embarking on a weekend getaway.
Make sure to check local sources or directly contact services and stores for the most accurate and specific information regarding operational hours and closures. This day of remembrance is a solemn one, yet it also marks a time of busy commercial activity and travel that signals the beginning of summer.
