Memorial Day falls on Monday, May 25, 2026, marking the unofficial start of summer.
The day is celebrated on the last Monday in May, to honor and mourn those who serve in the U.S. military.
It was originally known as “Decoration Day” when the tradition began after the Civil War in 1868, when citizens unanimously decorated the graves of fallen soldiers with flowers.
What is closed
All non-essential federal, state and municipal offices will be closed. Mail services provided by the United States Postal Service will be suspended and all post offices will be closed that day. Most banks will also be closed, as will the Federal Reserve. All financial markets, such as the New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq, will be closed. All public libraries and schools will be closed across the board. One of the rare exceptions in retail is Costco.
- US Postal Service (USPS)
- UPS, Fedex
- Most banks, including Bank of America, Chase and Wells Fargo.
- New York Stock Exchange, Nasdaq, Bond Market
- costco
- Government offices
- Schools
- Public libraries
- Garbage collection
- Transit
- Opening or modified hours
What is open?
Major retailers operate on normal hours. Additionally, CVS and Walgreens pharmacies will remain open. Although UPS and FedEx will remain nearby, UPS Express Critical will be available. Restaurants and bars will operate according to adjusted holiday hours.
The public transportation system, including the MBTA, will operate on a weekend/holiday schedule. A record 45 million Americans will travel more than 50 miles from their homes even though the national average fuel cost is $4.50 per gallon, which is higher than last year.
- Walmart, Target, Home Depot, Lowe’s, Sam’s Club, Belk
- Kroger, Trader Joe’s, ALDI, Whole Foods Market
- CVS, Walgreens
- 7-Eleven, most gas stations
- VA’s 157 National Cemeteries, Arlington National Cemetery
For real-time updates, citizens are advised to check relevant websites and official social media pages.
