Labor Day 2026 is being observed across the United States on Monday, September 7, with millions of Americans enjoying a long holiday weekend.
The federal holiday, celebrated annually on the first Monday of September, means many government offices and financial institutions will remain closed. However, most major retailers, restaurants, airports, hotels and other businesses serving travelers are expected to operate, although some may have modified hours.
Labor Day has its roots in the late 19th century, when several states began recognizing the occasion as a public holiday. By 1894, 23 states had adopted Labor Day as an official holiday, and Congress subsequently established it as a national holiday.
For people planning to shop, travel or complete essential errands, knowing which services are operating can help avoid unnecessary delays.
What is open on Labor Day?
Most major retailers and popular chains are expected to remain open on September 7, although individual locations may have different schedules.
Businesses generally operating on Labor Day include:
- Best Buy
- Chick-fil-A, although many locations may have reduced hours
- Chipotle
- CVS
- Gap, depending on mall operating hours
- Home Depot
- Starbucks
- Target
- Walgreens
- Walmart
- Kroger
- Lowe’s
- Old Navy, depending on mall operating hours
- National parks
Hotels, gas stations and airports are also generally open during the holiday. However, travelers should expect increased crowds and heavier activity at popular destinations.
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What is closed on Labor Day?
Several government services and financial institutions observe Labor Day by closing for the federal holiday.
These include:
- Costco
- Nonessential federal government offices
- Social Security Administration offices
- Internal Revenue Service offices
- US courthouses
- US Postal Service offices
- Most banks
- US stock markets
People expecting Social Security-related services or payments may need to account for the holiday closure. Services scheduled for the holiday may instead be handled on Tuesday, September 8.
What about weather services?
While many federal offices will be closed, the National Weather Service is expected to continue operating on Labor Day.
This is particularly important for people traveling over the holiday weekend, as weather conditions can affect road travel, flights and outdoor activities.
With airports, hotels and other travel-related businesses remaining open, travelers are advised to check operating hours and schedules in advance and allow extra time for possible crowds and delays.
