What’s Open and Closed on MLK Day and Inauguration Day: Your Guide.
As the United States observes two significant occasions—Martin Luther King Jr. Day (MLK Day) and Inauguration Day—it’s essential to know which businesses, government offices, and services will be open or closed. These two holidays affect operations in different ways, so here's a guide to what you can expect.
MLK Day (Third Monday in January)
MLK Day is a federal holiday celebrating the life and legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., and it has a notable impact on business hours across the country.
What’s Open:
- Retail Stores: Most stores, including large retailers like Walmart, Target, and shopping malls, remain open, with some offering special sales.
- Restaurants and Bars: Many restaurants stay open, though some may reduce hours or close early.
- Public Transportation: Public transit generally operates on regular or modified schedules.
- Grocery Stores: These usually stay open, though they may close early or run on reduced hours.
What’s Closed:
- Federal Offices and Post Offices: Federal government offices, including the United States Postal Service, close for the holiday.
- Banks: Most banks will be closed for MLK Day.
- Schools: Many schools across the country close in observance of MLK Day.
- Courthouses: Most courthouses are closed, which may delay legal proceedings.
Inauguration Day (January 20, Every Four Years)
Inauguration Day only occurs every four years when a new president is sworn into office. This national event impacts operations, particularly in Washington D.C., where the ceremony takes place.
What’s Open:
- Retail Stores: Most retail stores across the country will be open, though in Washington D.C., some may close due to the crowds and events surrounding the inauguration.
- Restaurants: Dining establishments in D.C. will remain open, especially those catering to inauguration events and visitors.
- Public Transportation: Public transportation in Washington D.C. will operate, but expect possible delays due to heavy crowds and road closures.
What’s Closed:
- Federal Offices in D.C.: Federal offices in Washington D.C. may close or operate with reduced staff to accommodate the event.
- Schools in D.C.: Schools in Washington D.C. typically close for Inauguration Day.
- Banks: Some banks, especially in D.C., may close for the holiday, though this depends on the institution.
Inauguration Day marks the formal ceremony in which the President of the United States is sworn into office. The tradition dates back to the first presidential inauguration on March 4, 1789, when George Washington was sworn in as the nation’s first president. According to the U.S. Constitution, the President’s term begins at noon on January 20 following the election, with the oath of office typically administered on this day. This date was set by the 20th Amendment in 1933, shortening the time between Election Day and the inauguration from four months to two.
Inauguration Day has evolved over time, with the first public inauguration ceremony in 1801 for Thomas Jefferson. Traditionally held in Washington D.C., it includes the presidential oath, a speech, and various celebrations, such as parades and balls. In recent years, the event has become a grand spectacle, with increasing media coverage and global attention.
