Understanding Veterans Day: More Than Just a Day Off

The modern observance of Veterans Day has deep historical roots that explain its fixed date and solemn purpose. Originally known as Armistice Day, it commemorated the cessation of hostilities in World War I, which took effect on the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month in 1918. For years, it served as a remembrance of the “war to end all wars.”

Following the massive mobilization of World War II and the Korean War, the scope of the holiday expanded. In 1954, after sustained efforts by veterans’ service organizations, President Dwight D. Eisenhower signed legislation officially changing the name from Armistice Day to Veterans Day. This pivotal shift transformed it from a day remembering the end of a specific conflict into a day for honoring all American veterans, living and dead, who served in any era, in war or peace. Unlike Memorial Day, which honors those who died in service, Veterans Day pays tribute to all who have worn the uniform.

A brief period of confusion occurred when the Uniform Monday Holiday Act of 1968 attempted to move Veterans Day to the fourth Monday in October to create three-day weekends. This change was implemented from 1971 to 1977 but proved unpopular, as many felt it diluted the historical significance of the November 11th date. Bowing to public pressure, President Gerald Ford returned the observance to its traditional date effective in 1978, where it has remained ever since.

Federal Holiday Status and Its Practical Implications

Veterans Day’s designation as a federal holiday has specific, cascading effects. For federal government employees, it means a paid day off, and non-essential government offices are closed. This includes agencies like the Department of Veterans Affairs, Social Security Administration, and passport agencies. Many state and local government offices, as well as public school districts, also close in observation, though this is not universally mandated and can vary by municipality.

The key financial implication is that the Federal Reserve System closes. Since the Fed processes all electronic transfers and check clearings for the nation’s banking system, its closure forces most banks and credit unions to close their physical branches. Financial markets, however, operate on their own schedules. The New York Stock Exchange and NASDAQ remain open for trading on Veterans Day, as it is not one of the market’s official holidays, though the bond market does close.

Navigating Financial Services on November 11th

Planning financial errands around Veterans Day requires understanding the difference between branch access and digital functionality. While brick-and-mortar locations are largely inaccessible, the digital backbone of modern banking continues to operate.

Bank and Credit Union Operations

The majority of national and regional banks, including Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Citibank, close their branch lobbies and drive-thrus in observance of the Federal Reserve holiday. Similarly, most credit unions follow suit. It is always advisable to check your specific institution’s website or mobile app for a confirmed holiday schedule, as policies for smaller community banks or unions can differ.

Despite branch closures, customers are not cut off from their finances. A full suite of digital services remains available 24/7:

Online and Mobile Banking: You can securely check balances, review transaction history, transfer funds between accounts, and pay bills electronically without interruption.
ATM Networks: ATMs operated by your bank or within its network remain fully functional for cash withdrawals, deposits, and balance inquiries. Be aware that using an out-of-network ATM may incur fees from both the ATM operator and your own bank.
Customer Service: Automated phone systems and, in many cases, live customer service representatives are available via telephone, though wait times may be longer than usual due to reduced holiday staffing.

For time-sensitive transactions that require a bank employee, such as accessing a safe deposit box, getting a cashier’s check, or finalizing a loan, you will need to plan to visit before or after the holiday.

Postal and Shipping Services: A Split Schedule

The logistics of mail and package delivery see a clear division between public and private services on Veterans Day.

The United States Postal Service (USPS), as a federal entity, does not deliver regular mail, and post office locations are closed. Limited exceptions exist for premium services. According to USPS policy, Priority Mail Express mail, which carries a 365-day service guarantee, may be delivered on the holiday, but this is not guaranteed for all routes. All other mail services, including standard First-Class Mail, Priority Mail, and packages, are suspended for the day. Mail will not be collected from blue street collection boxes or business mail receptacles.

In contrast, major private carriers like FedEx and UPS treat it as a standard business day for most operations. Their ground and air shipping networks run normally, and pickup and delivery services are generally available. FedEx Express, FedEx Ground, and FedEx Home Delivery operate on regular schedules. Similarly, UPS Ground, Air, and international services continue. However, their retail store locations or customer service counters, often housed inside other businesses like Office Depot or The UPS Store, may have modified hours if the host business is closed. It’s best to check the specific location’s hours via the carrier’s website.

Retail and Dining: Largely Open for Business

For the retail and restaurant industries, Veterans Day is predominantly a day of normal operations, with many businesses actively welcoming customers and offering special promotions for veterans. The decision to remain open reflects both consumer demand and a desire to participate in honoring service members through discounts and acknowledgments.

Major Retailers and Grocery Stores

Virtually all national big-box retailers, grocery chains, and home improvement stores operate on their standard Monday schedules. This includes industry giants like:

Walmart, Target, and Costco: These retailers remain open, with Costco notably not including Veterans Day on its short list of annual closure holidays, which typically only includes Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas Day.
Grocery Chains: Stores like Kroger, Albertsons, Publix, Wegmans, and Aldi operate normally, ensuring customers can access essentials. Pharmacy counters inside these stores are also generally open.
Home Improvement & Specialty Retail: Home Depot, Lowe’s, Best Buy, and Petco all conduct business as usual, though local franchisees of some chains may have autonomy to set hours.

While widespread closures are rare, two prudent steps are always recommended: First, for smaller local businesses or boutique shops, calling ahead or checking social media for hours is wise, as owner-operated stores may choose to close. Second, for any store, using the “store hours” feature on Google Maps or the business’s own app can provide real-time, location-specific information and save an unnecessary trip.

Restaurant and Fast-Food Operations

The restaurant industry largely stays open on Veterans Day. National sit-down chains like Applebee’s, Chili’s, and Olive Garden, along with fast-food giants such as McDonald’s, Burger King, Wendy’s, and Taco Bell, typically run regular hours. In fact, for many of these establishments, the day is a key opportunity to express gratitude through structured discount programs for veterans, active-duty military, and sometimes their families.

These offers vary dramatically in scope and requirement. Some may provide a complimentary entrée or dessert, while others offer a percentage off the total bill. The most critical step for veterans is to always verify the offer details directly with the restaurant. Common requirements include proof of service (such as a VA card, DD Form 214, or military ID) and limitations like dine-in only, specific meal periods, or exclusion from alcohol and combined offers. Reputable resources like the American Legion or Veterans of Foreign Wars (VFW) websites often compile national lists, but the restaurant’s own website is the definitive source for its current policy.

Public Services and Community Resources

Beyond commerce, the holiday affects access to public amenities and community services. The general rule is that taxpayer-funded services close, while private or essential services adapt.

Government Offices and Courts

As a federal holiday, non-essential functions of the U.S. government shut down. This means federal offices like Social Security, the Department of Motor Vehicles (on the federal level), and passport agencies are closed. At the state and local level, closures are common but not absolute. Most state government offices, county clerks, and city halls will be closed. Public libraries and community centers frequently close as well. Courts at the federal, state, and local levels typically do not hold sessions, though clerk’s office hours can vary by jurisdiction. For any official government business, checking the specific agency’s website is essential.

Public Transportation and Schools

Public transportation systems, including buses, subways, and commuter rails, often run on a modified “holiday” or “Sunday” schedule. This usually means reduced frequency of service. There is no national standard, so commuters must check with their local transit authority (e.g., MTA in New York, CTA in Chicago, WMATA in Washington D.C.) for precise schedules. Most public school districts across the country cancel classes for Veterans Day. Many schools hold assemblies or educational programs in the days leading up to the holiday to teach students about its significance. Private schools and daycare centers set their own policies, so parents should confirm directly.

Essential and emergency services, of course, remain fully staffed. Police, fire departments, and hospitals operate 24/7, regardless of the holiday. For non-emergency municipal issues, hotlines may have limited staffing or be redirected to answering services.

A Guide to Veterans Day Discounts and Offers

One of the most visible ways businesses engage with Veterans Day is through special offers for the military community. These promotions range from free meals to substantial retail discounts and are a meaningful gesture of appreciation. Navigating them successfully requires a bit of knowledge.

Veterans, active-duty service members, National Guard, reserves, and sometimes their immediate families are typically eligible. The standard proof of service requested is a military ID (CAC card for active duty), Veterans Health Identification Card (VHIC), DD Form 214, a current leave and earnings statement (LES), or a membership card from a recognized veterans service organization. It is always the responsibility of the individual to provide valid documentation.

The nature of offers varies significantly by industry:

Restaurants: These are the most common offers, ranging from a free appetizer or dessert to a full complimentary meal. Always check for restrictions (dine-in only, specific menu items, not valid with other offers).
Retail Stores: Many home improvement stores, clothing retailers, and online outlets offer a one-day percentage-off discount (e.g., 10% off) for veterans. These may apply to entire purchases or exclude certain categories like appliances or tools.
Travel & Entertainment: Hotels, airlines, car rental companies, museums, and theme parks often extend discounts around the Veterans Day period. These may be available for several days or even a full week.
Online Deals: An increasing number of e-commerce sites and service providers offer promo codes for veterans. Signing up for newsletters from favorite brands or checking dedicated military deal websites can reveal these digital offers.

The most important rule is to confirm the details before you go. Offers can change yearly, and store-level employees may not be fully informed of national policies. Reputable, updated compilations can be found on the websites of major veterans’ organizations, which vet the offers before listing them.

Planning Ahead: A Practical Checklist

With the mixed landscape of openings and closures, a small amount of planning can ensure a smooth Veterans Day. Whether you are a veteran looking to take advantage of offers, a family planning an outing, or someone simply needing to run errands, this checklist can help.

For Banking Needs: Complete any in-branch transactions (cashier’s checks, loan signings, large cash withdrawals) by the close of business on the Friday before the holiday. Set up online bill payments in advance, as processing may be delayed. Ensure you have your debit card and know your PIN for ATM access.
For Shipping: If you need guaranteed delivery for November 11th, use FedEx or UPS services, not USPS. Drop off packages at a carrier-operated hub or retail location for the most reliable pickup. For receiving USPS mail, expect no delivery on the holiday itself.
For Dining & Shopping: If you are a veteran, identify 2-3 restaurants or stores of interest and visit their official websites to find their official Veterans Day policy, noting any required documentation and restrictions. For general shopping, a quick online search for “[Store Name] Veterans Day hours” is usually effective.
For Appointments & Services: Confirm any scheduled appointments (medical, dental, salon, etc.) as some private practices may close or have limited hours. Assume government-related appointments (DMV, passport renewal) will be canceled and need rescheduling.
For Community Participation: If you wish to observe the holiday, research local Veterans Day parades, ceremonies, or memorial services, which are often held in the morning. Many are organized by local American Legion or VFW posts.

Adopting a mindset of “verify, then trust” is the best strategy for navigating the day. Relying on assumptions can lead to frustration, while a minute spent checking a website or making a quick phone call can ensure your plans proceed smoothly.

The Significance Behind the Schedules

While much of the public discussion around Veterans Day focuses on practicalities like store hours, it’s vital to remember the profound purpose at its heart. The patchwork of closures and openings itself tells a story about how American society chooses to balance respect, commerce, and daily life.

The closure of federal institutions and many schools is a formal, institutional gesture of honor—a conscious pause in official business to acknowledge service. Conversely, the decision of most retailers to stay open, often while offering discounts, represents a different, more participatory form of civic engagement and gratitude from the private sector. This allows the day to be both a solemn remembrance and an active, inclusive expression of thanks within the community.

Ultimately, the most meaningful observance often happens at the personal and local level. Attending a town parade, visiting a war memorial, flying the American flag, or simply taking a moment to thank a veteran in your life are powerful acts. They connect the national holiday to individual and community values, ensuring the sacrifices of service members are remembered not just through operational schedules, but through genuine appreciation and respect.

Conclusion

Veterans Day on November 11th presents a unique operational landscape across the United States, characterized by a clear division between public and private sector observances. The holiday reliably brings closures for federal services, the USPS, public schools, and most banking institutions, while the vast majority of retail stores, restaurants, and private shipping carriers remain open for regular business. For veterans and their families, the day is also marked by a wide array of discounts and special offers, though these require verification of details and proper documentation. Successfully navigating the day hinges on proactive planning—confirming hours for specific errands, completing bank transactions in advance, and understanding the split in mail delivery services. By taking these simple preparatory steps, individuals can smoothly manage their day while still honoring the holiday’s true purpose: to reflect on and express gratitude for the service and sacrifices made by all American veterans.

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