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Most banks and USPS closed on Veterans Day, stock exchanges open
The U.S. Postal Service and most major banks are closed on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, while the NYSE and Nasdaq remain open. Big-box retailers, Costco, grocery chains and major pharmacies are operating normally, and several restaurant chains are offering veterans free meals and discounts.
Most major banks, the U.S. Postal Service and many government offices will be closed on Wednesday, November 11, 2026, when the United States observes Veterans Day. The New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq will stay open, while big-box retailers, supermarkets and major pharmacies will keep their regular hours. Most restaurants will also be open, and a number of chains are offering special deals to former and current service members.
The holiday is fixed to November 11 because it marks the armistice that ended fighting in World War I in 1918. The Uniform Monday Holiday Act of 1968 moved several federal holidays to Mondays, and Veterans Day was observed on a Monday beginning in 1971. After veterans' groups objected to the change, the holiday was returned to its original November 11 date, which is why it falls on a Wednesday this year.
Because Veterans Day is a federal holiday, the U.S. Postal Service will not make regular mail deliveries. FedEx physical locations will be open, although some pickup and drop-box arrangements may differ by region. UPS will operate as usual, so customers expecting packages on the holiday should check the carrier's schedule for their area.
Chase, Bank of America and Wells Fargo are among the large banks that will be closed for the day. Customers can still use online and mobile banking, and outdoor ATMs are generally available. The U.S. bond market will also be closed under the calendar published by the Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association, SIFMA, even though equity trading will continue.
School status depends on each local district, so families should confirm with their own schools, and private schools set their own calendars. CVS and Walgreens, the two largest pharmacy chains, will be open. Walmart, Target, Costco, Kroger and Whole Foods are also on the list of retailers operating during the holiday.
Several restaurant chains are marking the day with offers for veterans. Applebee's is providing a free entree to veterans along with a $5 coupon for a future visit. BJ's is offering a free dessert and an appetizer coupon, and Farmer Boys is giving a free burger at participating locations to customers who show proof of service.
Eligibility and identification requirements differ from one location to another, so visitors should check the terms before going in. A 2026 guide from Dinova lists about 30 brands offering veteran perks this season, and many of those deals require some form of ID or documentation confirming military service.
Source: fastcompany.com
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