Understanding What a Federal Holiday Means
A federal holiday is a day officially recognized by the United States government when federal offices and agencies close. On these days, most nonessential federal employees are given paid leave, and government services pause. Banks, post offices, and courts often follow the same pattern, although private businesses can choose whether or not to close.
Veterans Day, observed each year on November 11, is one of the 11 federal holidays recognized nationwide. The date doesn’t change unless it falls on a weekend. If November 11 lands on a Saturday, the holiday is observed on Friday, November 10. If it falls on a Sunday, it’s observed on Monday, November 12. This ensures that federal workers still receive a designated day off.
Understanding this distinction helps explain why some services close while others stay open. Federal recognition sets the standard, but participation varies between sectors, creating different experiences depending on where people work or live.
Why Veterans Day Is a Federal Holiday
Veterans Day was established to honor those who have served in the United States Armed Forces. It originated from Armistice Day, marking the end of World War I on November 11, 1918. The armistice signed on that date ended one of the deadliest global conflicts in history. In 1954, after World War II and the Korean War, Congress renamed the observance to Veterans Day to honor all American veterans, not just those from World War I.
Making it a federal holiday ensured consistent national recognition. The decision underscored the government’s intent to give both civilians and public servants an opportunity to acknowledge military service. Since then, Veterans Day has stood as a national day of gratitude rather than mourning, separating it from Memorial Day, which honors those who died in service.
What Closes and What Stays Open
Because Veterans Day is federally recognized, federal offices, courthouses, and post offices close for the day. Banks that follow the Federal Reserve schedule also close. Public schools often observe the day with closures or ceremonies, depending on the district.
Private businesses, however, operate on their own schedules. Many retail stores and restaurants stay open and may even run Veterans Day sales or offer free meals to veterans. Grocery stores and local services usually remain open, though some smaller businesses may choose to close in observance.
Public transportation usually runs, but sometimes on a modified schedule, especially in major cities. Those who need to handle government-related errands, such as renewing a passport or visiting a post office, should plan around the closures.
How It Differs from Other Military Holidays
Veterans Day is sometimes confused with Memorial Day and Armed Forces Day, but each one serves a different purpose. Memorial Day, held in May, honors service members who lost their lives in military service. Armed Forces Day, celebrated in May as well, recognizes those currently serving. Veterans Day, on the other hand, honors everyone who has served, whether during war or peace, living or deceased.
This distinction gives Veterans Day a unique emotional balance. It’s both reflective and celebratory, allowing people to express appreciation for service without focusing solely on loss. Parades, community events, and public gatherings often highlight veterans’ contributions, while schools and local organizations hold educational programs to help younger generations understand the meaning of the day.
Why It Matters to Keep It Federal
Federal holidays provide a shared national moment that cuts across geography and profession. Veterans Day’s official status ensures that at least once a year, the country collectively pauses to acknowledge military service. It also serves a symbolic role, reminding citizens that public gratitude isn’t limited to speeches or ceremonies—it’s built into the nation’s civic calendar.
Some federal holidays, like Thanksgiving or Independence Day, revolve around family or national milestones. Veterans Day stands out for its personal dimension, recognizing individuals whose service shaped those milestones. The federal acknowledgment reinforces a commitment to honoring that service at every level, from government offices to local communities.
Observing the Day
For most Americans, Veterans Day is marked by a mix of reflection and activity. Communities hold parades, city halls raise flags, and schools invite veterans to share their stories. Many businesses offer complimentary meals, discounts, or gestures of appreciation. While not every worker gets the day off, many still find time to participate in these acts of respect.
Veterans Day’s federal status ensures that it remains part of the country’s rhythm—predictable, consistent, and meaningful. Whether someone spends it at a parade, in quiet reflection, or at work, the intent is the same: to honor the people who served and to recognize that their sacrifices continue to shape daily life in the United States.
