MLK Day 2025: Is It a Federal Holiday, and What's Open/Closed?

Jan. 20, 2025, 4:30 p.m. Politics

MLK Day 2025: Is It a Federal Holiday, and What's Open/Closed?

As Martin Luther King Jr. Day approaches in 2025, many Americans are preparing to celebrate the life and legacy of the civil rights leader. January 20th marks what would have been Dr. King's 96th birthday, and the day has been designated as a federal holiday to honor his contributions to the fight for racial equality and social justice. But what exactly does this mean for businesses and government offices on MLK Day? Is it a federal holiday, and what will be open or closed on this day?

MLK Day, officially known as Martin Luther King Jr. Day, is a federal holiday in the United States. This means that most federal offices, including post offices and federal courts, will be closed in observance of the holiday. Additionally, all federal employees are entitled to a paid day off on MLK Day. However, not all businesses and organizations follow the federal holiday schedule, so it's important to check with individual companies to see if they will be open or closed on January 20th.

In terms of state and local government offices, MLK Day is considered a holiday in all 50 states, as well as in the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico. This means that most state and local government offices will be closed on MLK Day, and public schools are often closed as well. However, some states have designated MLK Day as a day of service, encouraging residents to volunteer in their communities in honor of Dr. King's commitment to social justice.

Banks and financial institutions typically follow the federal holiday schedule, so most banks will be closed on MLK Day. This means that bank branches, as well as the stock market, will be closed for the day. Additionally, some businesses may choose to close on MLK Day as a way to honor Dr. King's legacy and values.

Retail stores and restaurants, on the other hand, are less likely to close on MLK Day. Many retail stores and restaurants will remain open for business on January 20th, though some may have modified hours or special promotions in honor of the holiday. If you plan to visit a specific store or restaurant on MLK Day, it's a good idea to check their hours of operation in advance.

For those who have to work on MLK Day, it's worth noting that federal law does not require employers to provide a day off or pay extra for working on federal holidays. However, some employers may choose to offer holiday pay or other incentives for employees who work on MLK Day. Additionally, some organizations may choose to hold special events or activities on MLK Day to honor Dr. King's legacy and promote social justice in their communities.

Overall, MLK Day is a federal holiday in the United States, and most federal offices, as well as state and local government offices, will be closed in observance of the holiday. Banks and financial institutions will also be closed on MLK Day, but retail stores and restaurants are more likely to remain open. Whether you plan to spend the day volunteering, attending events, or simply relaxing at home, MLK Day is an important time to reflect on Dr. King's contributions to the fight for racial equality and social justice.