Monday, May 27, is Memorial Day.
While many Americans will relish the extra sleep, day off from work, and BBQs with family, the true meaning of the federal holiday is a somber one. It is meant to be a day of remembrance for those who died while serving in the United States Armed Forces.
So while you are enjoying the unofficial beginning to summer, take a moment to honor those who gave the ultimate sacrifice. Because of the holiday, business won’t be running like usual at many establishments. Here’s a look at what is open and closed.
A Quick History Lesson
Memorial Day’s roots can be traced back to the Civil War. At its conclusion, many communities—often organized by women—would come together to decorate soldiers’ graves with flowers. This would occur in the spring as that’s when the flowers bloomed. Memorial Day was first called Decoration Day because of the activity.
On May 5, 1868, Major General John A. Logan formalized things by issuing General Order No. 11, also known as “The Memorial Day Act.” He was the head of the Grand Army of the Republic, an organization made up of Union Veterans. He declared that May 30 would be the day of remembrance.
Sadly, many more wars have since fought beyond our domestic battles. The holiday was expanded to include them as well. Congress approved the Uniform Monday Holiday Act in 1968, changing the now official federal holiday to the last Monday in May. This took effect in 1971, making a three-day weekend possible for many and causing some establishments to take the day off.
Banks and other financial services
The bad news is, physical brick-and-mortar banks will not be open on Memorial Day. The good news is, you can complete many of the same errands or tasks through online banking, apps, and ATMs, which are all available. Many toll-free helplines are also still available on the holiday.
Restaurants and Stores
Most major retailers, such as grocery and convenience stores, will be open for business. You can grab last-minute items for your BBQ. Many will likely be having sales for the holiday, including major retail chains like Target and Walmart, which offer discounted prices on spring-related items.
Most large chain restaurants, likewise, will be open. It is always a good idea to double check ahead of time, though, as smaller establishments and independent restaurants may decide to take the day off.
The Post Office
Snail mail will have to wait as Memorial Day is a postal holiday, meaning the United States Postal Service (USPS) will be closed. You will not be getting any letters unless they are delivered Harry Potter style.
The Stock Market
Trading on the stock market also comes to a halt. The New York Stock Exchange and the Nasdaq close every year on Memorial Day.
Schools
Most schools also have the day off. For many schools, depending on the state, this is the last holiday until summer break. It is the beginning of the end of the school year.
Government Offices
All non-essential government offices will be closed in observance of the federal holiday. Employees will be given a paid day off work as well.