Navigating Martin Luther King Jr. Day: Is the Stock Market Open Today?

This year, the annual celebration of Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday aligns with the civil-rights leader’s actual birth date.

On Monday, Americans will pay homage to the late Martin Luther King Jr., a pivotal figure in the civil-rights movement, as part of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Established in 1983 as a federal holiday and first observed in 1986, this day honors King’s significant contributions to the struggle for racial justice. Falling on the third Monday of January, MLK Day coincides with King’s birthday this year.

In July, Iowa Republicans designated Martin Luther King Jr.’s birthday as the date for their caucuses, marking the commencement of the presidential primary season.

Here’s what to expect on this day:

Stock and bond markets: U.S. stock exchanges will be closed, and bond markets will observe a holiday on Monday.

Mail and packages: The U.S. Postal Service will not deliver mail, while FedEx may provide modified service in specific instances. UPS will not offer pickup or delivery services.

Banks: Most banks are closed, but ATMs and banking apps remain available for transactions.

Government offices: As a federal holiday, nonessential federal government offices and, typically, state government offices are closed.

Schools: While schools are generally closed on MLK Day, it’s advisable to check with specific schools or school districts, as there may be exceptions.

Stores: Many stores are likely to remain open on MLK Day, with some taking advantage of the occasion to promote sales.