Presidents Day 2026: What’s open, what’s closed, and what can wait until Tuesday
United States – February 17, 2026 – Presidents Day is a federal holiday, so government offices, courts, many schools, banks, and U.S. stock markets are closed, while most major …
Presidents Day is the annual reminder that America can pause the paperwork, but it rarely pauses the shopping. Observed as a federal holiday, it changes the rhythm of the week in predictable ways: some essential services go quiet, while most big retailers keep operating.
What’s closed for Presidents Day
- Federal and state government offices: Closed.
- Courts: Closed.
- Schools: Most are closed (check locally).
The holiday’s official designation is Washington’s Birthday, honoring George Washington. Over time it has become widely known as Presidents Day, and it is often associated with Abraham Lincoln as well, since Lincoln’s birthday is nearby on Feb. 12.
Banks and the stock market
- Banks: Closed Monday, reopening Tuesday.
- U.S. stock markets: Closed Monday, reopening Tuesday.
If you planned to handle a deposit, sign paperwork, or take care of market-related business, this is the kind of holiday that turns “Monday morning” into “try again tomorrow.”
What’s open
- Most large retailers and businesses: Open.
Because store hours can vary, the practical advice is simple: call ahead or look up your local store’s schedule online before you drive over.
National parks: open and free
National parks are open on Presidents Day, and admission is free to U.S. residents. The National Park Service also made a policy change late last year: free admission is no longer offered on Martin Luther King Jr. Day and Juneteenth, and is instead offered on June 14, which is Flag Day and President Donald Trump’s birthday. Free admission remains available on other holidays, including Presidents Day, Memorial Day, and Independence Day weekend.
Bottom line: expect official doors to be locked, expect big retail doors to be open, and if you want a simpler plan, the parks are waiting.