Martin Luther King Jr. Day, observed on Monday, January 20, 2025, is a federal holiday that honors the civil rights leader’s legacy. Designated as a national day of service, this holiday encourages Americans to engage in volunteer work and support their communities, according to the National Museum of African American History and Culture.
History of MLK Day
The push to recognize Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. with a federal holiday began just days after his assassination on April 4, 1968. However, it took 15 years of advocacy by civil rights activists before the holiday was officially signed into law by President Ronald Reagan on November 2, 1983. Even after federal approval, it took another 17 years before all 50 states recognized the holiday.
What’s Open and Closed on MLK Day 2025?
While most restaurants, grocery stores, and retail businesses will remain open, some essential services and institutions will observe closures.
Will the Post Office Deliver Mail?
- U.S. Postal Service (USPS) locations will be closed on Monday, January 20, and there will be no mail delivery that day.
- Regular postal operations will resume on Tuesday, January 21.
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Are Banks Open on MLK Day?
- Major banks, including Wells Fargo, Chase, PNC, Bank of America, Capital One, CitiBank, and Truist, will not be open on the holiday.
- Customers should use online banking, mobile apps, or ATMs for transactions.
Are UPS and FedEx Operating on MLK Day?
- UPS will not offer regular pickup or delivery services on January 20, and some UPS Store locations may be closed.
- UPS Express Critical, which provides urgent deliveries, will remain available. Customers can call 1-800-714-8779 for assistance.
- FedEx will provide limited pickup and delivery services on the holiday. FedEx Office locations are expected to remain open, but hours may vary by location.
- FedEx Custom Critical, the company’s emergency shipping service, will be operational. Customers can contact 1-800-762-3787 for more details.
Plan Ahead for MLK Day
If you need to visit the bank, ship a package, or send mail, be sure to plan accordingly as many services will be limited on Monday, January 20, 2025. While many businesses will stay open, government offices and financial institutions will pause operations in recognition of Dr. King’s contributions to civil rights and social justice .
