Labor Day, observed on the first Monday in September, honors the American labor movement and the millions of workers who power the US economy. This year, the holiday falls on September 1, and while it offers a long weekend for many, it also means some businesses and services will operate differently. Here’s a guide to what’s open and closed.
Banks and financial markets
- Banks: Most major banks will be closed in observance of the federal holiday. Online banking and ATMs will remain available.
- Stock Market: Both the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and Nasdaq will be closed on Monday.
Government offices
- Federal, state and local offices: Closed, including courts, DMVs, and public libraries.
Postal and Delivery Services
- USPS: No mail pickup or delivery.
- UPS: No regular pickup or delivery; UPS locations may be closed. UPS Express Critical will operate as usual.
- FedEx: Most services will be closed. FedEx Office will have modified hours, while FedEx Custom Critical will remain open.
Retail and Grocery Stores
- Closed: Costco warehouses.
- Limited Hours: Aldi locations (hours vary by store).
- Open (check local hours): Whole Foods.
- Regular Hours: Trader Joe’s, Walmart, Target, Kroger-owned stores (Kroger, Pick ’n Save, Harris Teeter, Fred Meyer, Ralphs), and Home Depot.
Pharmacies
- Walgreens: Stores will be open with regular hours, but most pharmacies (except 24-hour and select locations) will be closed.
- CVS: Stores and pharmacies will be open, though hours may vary by location.
Significance of the holiday
Labor Day, observed on the first Monday of September, honors the contributions of American workers whose efforts have shaped the nation’s strength, prosperity, and democratic ideals. Rooted in the labor movement of the late 19th century, the holiday commemorates historic struggles for fair rights and recognition while celebrating the enduring role of workers in building the country’s economic and social fabric. Marked by parades, gatherings, and a day of rest, it serves as both a tribute to past achievements and a reminder of the central place of labor in America’s progress.
