Veterans Day falls on a Saturday this year, which is bound to cause some confusion.
This is one of the few unique holidays that is locked to a specific day: November 11. But it’s also a federal and bank holiday, so that causes some head-scratching about when it’s going to be a bit harder to get things done.
Here’s the good news: Retail stores generally aren’t going to be affected. With the exception of some small businesses, which choose to honor those who have served, most will be open. If your to-do list involves visiting a government office or visiting the bank on Friday, however, it can be a lot more complicated.
Here’s a look at who’s open and closed on Veterans Day 2023—both on the actual holiday and the observed day.
What is Veterans Day?
Originally known as Armistice Day, this holiday is meant to honor those who have died in the country’s service and thank those who have served. It was proclaimed in 1919 by Woodrow Wilson and became a legal federal holiday in 1938.
The date of Nov. 11 is significant — and there’s a reason we don’t deviate from it. On the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month of 1918, a cease fire (or armistice) went into effect between the Allied nations and Germany, signaling the unofficial end of World War I.
Are banks open on Veterans Day?
No. Since Veterans Day is a federal holiday, most banks will be closed.
Because the holiday is on a Saturday, though, there are questions about whether you’ll be able to get business done on Friday, Nov. 10. Since most banks have Saturday hours, branches will generally be open on Friday. If you’re unsure, though, it might be wise to call the bank before you head out to visit it.
You can, of course, still make online transfers and use ATM machines to get cash or put money into your account.
Will there be any mail delivery on Veterans Day?
Don’t expect anything from the U.S. Postal Service, but UPS and FedEx will conduct business as usual. In addition, drop off locations for both delivery services will have normal hours.
Is the stock market open on Veterans Day?
Not on Nov. 11, of course. But the New York Stock Exchange, Nasdaq and bond markets are all open on Friday Nov. 10. Their next scheduled holiday is Thanksgiving.
The bond markets, which are often closed on Veterans Day, will not take a day off this year.
Are government offices open on Veterans Day?
Federal offices will be closed, as will most, but likely not all, city, county and state divisions on both Friday Nov. 10 and Saturday, Nov. 11.
Which retail and grocery stores are closed on Veterans Day?
Pretty much none of the major retail and restaurant chains shut down for Veterans Day. Some small businesses could be closed, however, depending on the policies (or service history) of their owners.