Presidents’ Day 2025: anti-Trump protests, and what’s open and closed today

Presidents’ Day always falls on the third Monday of February, which, this year, is February 17. At the federal government level, the holiday is called Washington’s Birthday, which was its original name and which used to be celebrated on February 22, George Washington’s actual birthday. But in 1971, Congress enacted the Uniform Monday Holiday Act, providing federal workers and others with three-day weekends, and Washington’s Bday observance got swept up with that. The idea behind the holiday’s new name was to create a day that paid tribute to the office of the presidency.

For many Americans, Presidents’ Day is a long weekend and an opportunity for holiday shopping deals—this year, however, massive nationwide demonstrations are scheduled under the rubric, “Not My President’s Day” in protest of the Trump administration’s alarming power grab and attempts to overhaul the federal government.

The demonstrations are organized by the #50501 Movement—50 protests, 50 states, 1 movement—”fighting to uphold the Constitution and end executive overreach” and protest “the anti-democratic and illegal actions of the Trump administration and its plutocratic allies” (Elon Musk, anyone?). The idea for the movement’s name came from the subreddit community, Reddit r/50501, and spread rapidly across social media.

So far, #50501 has already pulled off more than 80 peaceful protests in all 50 states since Trump took office, according to the movement’s website. Information about where the nationwide protests and street marches are planned can be found here upon entering your city or state.

Now, here’s a look at what’s open and closed on Monday, from the stock market to banks, supermarkets, and stores.

Are financial markets open on Presidents’ Day?

The Nasdaq, New York Stock Exchange, and U.S. bond markets are all closed.

Will mail be delivered on Presidents’ Day?

The U.S. Postal Service post offices will be closed and won’t be delivering regular mail or packages, though USPS priority mail will.

However, UPS will be open for business as usual, while FedEx has modified service, so check for availability in your area.

Are banks open on Presidents’ Day?

Banks will be closed, but you should still be able to access your bank’s service online and via your local ATMs.

Are schools open on Presidents’ Day?

Public schools and most private schools will be closed for the federal holiday.

Are restaurants and fast-food chains open on Presidents’ Day?

Most major casual-dining and fast-food chains are open plus most sit-down restaurants—it’s a great shopping day, after all. That said, their hours may be reduced, so it’s always a good idea to call ahead or check individual websites.

Are grocery stores open on Presidents’ Day?

Most regional supermarket chains should be open, though some with reduced hours; ditto, your local grocery stores. Trader Joe’s, Aldi, and Costco are all open.

Are stores open on Presidents’ Day?

This is a big day for retailers, with many having weekend-long sales. Looking for a little retail therapy? Walmart, Macy’s, West Elm, Nordstrom, Walmart, and Best Buy are having major sales, while Amazon has an entire section on its home page dedicated to its Presidents’ Day bargains.

Are pharmacies open on Presidents’ Day?

CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid are all open, although they may have reduced hours of operation. Check your pharmacy’s website for more information.