Understanding Veterans Day 2023

Each year on November 11th, the United States honors its military veterans with Veterans Day—a day dedicated to expressing gratitude for the sacrifices and contributions of service members. In 2023, Veterans Day falls on a Saturday, which means that the federal observance of the holiday takes place on the adjacent Friday for many institutions. This dual observance can sometimes cause confusion regarding closures and service availability.

Veterans Day, originally known as Armistice Day, commemorates the end of World War I. In 1954, the name was changed to Veterans Day to honor all veterans, not just those who served in World War I. It’s a significant day for reflection, commemoration, and education about the importance of military service and the sacrifices involved.

This year’s Veterans Day may include parades, ceremonies, and other events designed to pay tribute to those who have served. As we approach Veterans Day 2023, it’s essential to understand how this holiday affects business operations, government services, and public institutions.

What’s Open and What’s Closed?

When Veterans Day lands on a weekend, it can lead to some confusion regarding what services and institutions remain operational. Generally, non-essential federal government offices are closed on the actual holiday, but when it falls on a weekend, many observe the holiday on the preceding Friday.

Most banks follow the Federal Reserve’s schedule and are closed on the official holiday, which in 2023 is observed on Friday. However, some branches, especially those in retail spaces, may remain open on the Saturday. The United States Postal Service (USPS) does not deliver mail on Veterans Day, and post offices are closed. Similarly, UPS does not deliver, but FedEx operates with modified service.

When it comes to schools, the decision to close is made by individual school districts. Some may close on Friday or Monday if the holiday falls on a weekend, while others may remain open.

The stock market is another sector affected by the holiday—both the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and NASDAQ close on Veterans Day. Retail businesses, including stores and restaurants, often remain open and may offer special promotions and discounts for veterans.

Public transportation schedules can vary, with some cities operating on a normal schedule and others on a holiday schedule. It’s always best to check local services for any changes due to the holiday.

Special Promotions and Recognitions

Veterans Day is not only a day off for some; it’s also a day where businesses and organizations show their appreciation for veterans through various promotions, discounts, and freebies. Restaurants across the country often offer free meals or discounts to veterans and active-duty military members. Retailers might provide special discounts or benefits to those who have served.

It’s also common for national parks and museums to offer free admission on Veterans Day, allowing families and individuals to spend the day reflecting on the service of veterans and experiencing the nation’s cultural and natural heritage.

Beyond the deals and discounts, many communities host parades, ceremonies, and other events to honor veterans. These events provide an opportunity for the public to show respect and appreciation for the bravery and sacrifice of military service members and are an essential part of the day’s observances.

Resources

For more detailed information on Veterans Day 2023 openings and closures, please refer to the following resources:

• CNN: What’s Open and Closed on Veterans Day 2023 Saturday
• Morningstar: Veterans Day 2023 – Are Banks Closed on Friday? Will Mail Be Delivered? Are Schools Open?
• Fortune: Open & Closed Veterans Day 2023 – Mail, Banks, Stock Market
• Marca: Veterans Day 2023 – What’s Open and Closed?
• Syracuse.com: Veterans Day 2023 – What’s Open, What’s Closed? Is Mail Delivered?
• WTOP: Veterans Day 2023 – What’s Open, What’s Closed?