Veterans Day is observed on Wednesday, Nov. 11, 2026, as a federal holiday honoring Americans who have served in the U.S. military. While federal offices, post offices, and most major banks are closed, the U.S. stock market and many national retailers and grocery chains remain open for business.
The holiday was first directed as "Armistice Day" by President Woodrow Wilson in 1919 and was officially recognized as a federal holiday by Congress in 1926. Because it is observed by the Federal Reserve, traditional banking and mail services are suspended for the day, though retail and financial markets often continue operations.
Major retailers including Target, Walmart, and Walgreens confirmed they are operating during regular business hours on Wednesday. Grocery chains such as Aldi, Publix, and Whole Foods are also open. In contrast, the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) stated all post office locations are closed with no mail delivery, and banks such as Chase and Bank of America have shuttered physical branches. The New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq remain open, with their next scheduled closure on Thanksgiving, Nov. 26.
The scale of economic activity is centered on retail and dining, where several national brands are providing discounts or complimentary items to those with military identification. For example, Food Lion and Publix are offering 10% off grocery totals for veterans and their families. Restaurant chains including Applebee’s, Chili’s, and IHOP are providing free entrees or breakfast meals. Starbucks is providing free coffee to veterans and military spouses, a benefit available at in-person and drive-thru locations.
The knock-on effects of the federal holiday include the suspension of government administrative functions and a pause in the processing of certain electronic transfers between financial institutions. These service interruptions are temporary, with full operations for the postal service and major banks scheduled to return on Thursday. The U.S. stock market's decision to remain open ensures that investment trading continues until the Thanksgiving holiday on Nov. 26. Individuals seeking specific deals are advised by the American Legion to verify offers with local establishments.