Are banks, post offices, stock markets and shops open on Memorial Day 2026? Here’s everything you need to know | Today’s news
On Memorial Day, millions of Americans prepare for holiday shopping, traveling, cooking, and gatherings. While most major retailers, grocery stores and restaurant chains will remain open on Monday (May 25), several essential services – including banks, post offices and the stock exchange – will be closed for the federal holiday.
Commemorated on the last Monday in May, Memorial Day honors U.S. military personnel who have died while serving the country. Originally known as “Decoration Day,” this holiday dates back to the 1860s after the Civil War.
Here’s a full breakdown of what’s open and closed on Memorial Day 2026.
Which retail stores are open on Memorial Day?
Most chain stores will be open for regular or modified hours on Memorial Day.
Stores open on May 25 include:
Most Walmart stores will reportedly be open from 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. local time, while Target stores are expected to keep regular business hours.
Which grocery stores are open on Memorial Day?
Most grocery chains will remain open on May 25, although pharmacy and clinic hours may vary by location.
Open grocery stores include:
Are restaurants and fast food chains open?
Yes, most restaurants and fast food chains will remain open on Memorial Day.
Are banks open on Memorial Day?
No. Since Memorial Day is a federal holiday, most bank branches in the United States will be closed on Monday, May 25.
Online banking services and ATMs will continue to operate as normal.
Are post offices, UPS and FedEx open?
United States Postal Service post offices will be closed and regular mail delivery will not take place on Memorial Day.
UPS pickup and delivery services will not be available
Some UPS Store locations may also be closed
FedEx will operate adjusted holiday hours, with some locations closed entirely
Is the stock market open on Memorial Day?
No. US stock markets will remain closed on Monday in observance of Memorial Day.
The following stock markets will be closed:
Trading will resume on Tuesday, May 26.
The US bond market also remains closed for the holiday.
Why is Memorial Day celebrated?
Memorial Day is celebrated to honor and remember US military personnel who have died while serving in the armed forces.
The holiday began after the American Civil War in the 1860s, when communities began holding ceremonies to decorate the graves of fallen soldiers with flowers and flags. It was originally known as “Decoration Day”. Over time, this observance expanded to honor all American soldiers who died in wars and conflicts, including World War I, World War II, the Vietnam War, Iraq War, and Afghanistan War.
Memorial Day became an official federal holiday in 1971. Today, it is marked by ceremonies, parades, visits to cemeteries and memorials, and moments of silence across the country. Many Americans place flowers and small American flags on the graves of fallen soldiers. The president traditionally places a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery.
The holiday also symbolizes national reflection and gratitude for the sacrifices of military service members. At 3:00 p.m. local time, Americans are encouraged to observe the National Moment of Remembrance by pausing for a minute of silence.
While Memorial Day is primarily a celebratory occasion, it also marks the unofficial start of summer in the United States. Many people spend the long weekend with family gatherings, barbecues, traveling and public events.
Memorial Day is different from Veterans Day, which honors all military veterans, living and deceased. Memorial Day specifically commemorates those who have lost their lives while serving in the military.
Read also | Memorial Day 2026 in the USA: The date, why it is celebrated, what is its history?
