Presidents Day 2026: What’s Open, Closed Today/ Newslooks/ WASHINGTON/ J. Mansour/ Morning Edition/ Presidents Day 2026 brings widespread closures of government offices, banks, schools, and U.S. stock markets. Most major retailers remain open, while national parks offer free admission.
Here’s a complete breakdown of what’s open and closed on Monday’s federal holiday.
Presidents Day 2026 Open and Closed List Quick Looks
- Federal and state government offices: Closed
- Courts and most schools: Closed
- Banks: Closed
- U.S. stock markets: Closed
- Major retailers and businesses: Mostly Open
- National parks: Open and free admission
Deep Look: What’s Open and Closed on Presidents Day 2026
Americans observing Presidents Day 2026 will encounter a mix of closures and business-as-usual operations across the country. The federal holiday, officially known as Washington’s Birthday, is observed on Monday, Feb. 16, 2026. While many government functions pause for the day, most retailers and national parks remain open.
Here’s a detailed breakdown of what to expect.
Government Offices Closed for Federal Holiday
All federal and state government offices are closed in observance of Presidents Day. That includes administrative offices, motor vehicle departments, and most public service agencies.
Courts across the country also shut down for the holiday. Additionally, most public schools and many colleges are closed, although policies may vary by district or institution. Families should confirm schedules with their local school systems.
Presidents Day is officially designated as Washington’s Birthday, honoring the first U.S. president, George Washington. Over time, the holiday has evolved into a broader celebration of U.S. presidents. Many also associate the day with Abraham Lincoln, whose birthday falls on Feb. 12.
The holiday is recognized under federal law and listed on the official U.S. government holiday calendar maintained by the U.S. Office of Personnel Management.
Banks and Stock Market Closed
Financial institutions nationwide observe Presidents Day as a federal banking holiday.
Most major banks are closed for in-person services, although ATMs and online banking remain available. Customers are advised to plan transactions accordingly, as certain payments and deposits may experience delays until Tuesday.
The U.S. stock markets are also closed Monday. Both the New York Stock Exchange and the NASDAQ suspend trading for the holiday and will resume normal operations Tuesday morning.
Investors can verify trading schedules on official market websites.
Retailers and Businesses Mostly Open
Unlike government offices and financial institutions, most large retailers and private businesses remain open on Presidents Day. The holiday has become a popular shopping weekend, with many stores offering seasonal promotions and sales events.
Grocery stores, shopping malls, restaurants, and entertainment venues typically operate under normal or slightly adjusted hours. However, smaller businesses may choose to close or reduce operating times.
Consumers are encouraged to check local store hours online or call ahead for confirmation.
National Parks Offer Free Admission
National parks remain open on Presidents Day, and visitors can enjoy free admission at sites managed by the National Park Service.
Presidents Day is one of several fee-free days offered annually. Popular destinations such as the Washington Monument and national parks across the country typically see increased foot traffic during the long weekend.
Last year, the National Park Service announced changes to its fee-free holiday schedule. While Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Juneteenth are no longer included as free-admission days, June 14 — Flag Day — has been added to the calendar. June 14 also marks the birthday of Donald Trump.
However, admission remains free on Presidents Day, Memorial Day, and during Independence Day weekend.
Visitors should review park-specific hours and reservation requirements on the official National Park Service website before traveling.
Why Presidents Day Matters
Though widely recognized as a retail holiday, Presidents Day has historical roots dating back to the 19th century. Initially established to honor George Washington’s birthday, the observance expanded over time to recognize the contributions of American presidents more broadly.
Today, it serves both as a day of reflection on presidential leadership and as a long weekend for many Americans.
Planning Ahead
If you need to visit a government office, bank branch, or courthouse, plan to wait until Tuesday. For shopping, dining, or outdoor recreation, most options remain available.
When in doubt, verify hours with local businesses or official websites to avoid inconvenience.
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