Monday, January 20, 2021, is Martin Luther King, Jr. Day in the United States. As with many federal holidays, it can be hard to anticipate what is and isn’t going to be open. Companies and various organizations or entities aren’t required to shut down to observe the occasion, but they do have the option to do so. If you’re wondering what is open or closed on MLK Day 2021, here’s what you need to know.
Federal Government
Federal government offices will close on MLK Day. The only exception tends to be agencies that focus on safety and security.
State and Local Government
State and local government offices are typically closed on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Most follow the federal holiday schedule. Again, the only exceptions tend to be personnel essential for safety and security.
Mail and Delivery Services
The United States post office is closed on January 20, 2021. However, FedEx and UPS are open.
Retailers
Major retailers – such as Walmart, Target, and Costco – are open on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. In some cases, there are even special sales to commemorate the event.
Small retailers may or may not be open. If you want to shop at a small business on January 20, you may want to call ahead and confirm they are open.
Grocery Stores
Major chain grocery stores are open on MLK Day. Independent grocers may or may not be open.
Drug Stores or Pharmacies
Chain pharmacies and drug stores will be open on Martin Luther King, Jr. Day. Independent pharmacies may or may not open.
Restaurants
Restaurants are usually open on MLK Day. The only exception may be small, independent restaurants, which may choose to close instead.
Gas Stations and Convenience Stores
By and large, gas stations and convenience stores will be open on January 20.
U.S. Stock and Bond Markets
On MLK Day, the New York Stock Exchange, NASDAQ, and bond market are closed.
Banks and Credit Unions
In recognition of the holiday, banks and credit unions typically close.
K-12 Schools
Public and private K-12 schools close for MLK Day. This means classes will not be held, and teachers, administrators, and office personnel will not be available.
Trade Schools, Colleges, and Universities
On Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, trade schools, colleges, and universities will not hold classes. Additionally, the offices will not be open.
On-site cafeterias and other facilities may be open for students living on-campus. However, services may be limited.
Public Libraries
Public libraries will close on January 20. However, exterior drop boxes should remain available if you need to turn in a borrowed book.
National Parks
National parks usually welcome visitors on federal holidays, including MLK Day. In fact, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day is one of six fee-free days in 2021, so you can actually visit a participating park without having to pay to get inside.
Garbage Services
Garbage pickup services may or may not run on January 20. If MLK Day is your usual pickup day, check with your service provider to confirm if they are operating or if your pickup day has is different to the holiday.
Local dumps also may or may not be open. Again, check with your nearest location to confirm if they are opening before making the trip.
Deals on MLK Day
Find deals during this day on these shops. Check them out or sign-up.
| Platform: | Fees and Minimum: | Deals Best for: |
|---|---|---|
| Costco | Gold Star Membership $60.00 | The biggest deals and discounts if you are a member |
| Walmart | Free sign-up | Houseware, etc |
| Target | Free sign-up | Clothing and low-cost home accessories |
| Amazon | Free sign-up | Different options to choose from |
Do you know of other places that are open or closed on MLK Day 2021? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
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Tamila McDonald is a U.S. Army veteran with 20 years of service, including five years as a military financial advisor. After retiring from the Army, she spent eight years as an AFCPE-certified personal financial advisor for wounded warriors and their families. Now she writes about personal finance and benefits programs for numerous financial websites.
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