Is the stock market open on Martin Luther King Jr. Day? Will the post office deliver mail?

By Charles Passy

The annual observance of King's birthday falls this year on the civil-rights leader's actual birth date

On Monday, Americans will pay tribute to the late civil-rights leader Martin Luther King Jr.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day commemorates the life and legacy of King, who was born on Jan. 15, 1929, and became a leading voice in the fight for racial justice. MLK Day, as the holiday is often called, was made a federal holiday in 1983 and was first observed in 1986.

The holiday is always celebrated on the third Monday in January, which this year falls on King's actual birthday.

The Martin Luther King birthday - and federal holiday - was chosen last July by Iowa Republicans as the date for the caucuses that kick off the presidential primary season.

Here's what else you can expect.

Stock and bond markets

U.S. stock exchanges will be closed Monday. Bond traders also get a long weekend, as bond markets will be closed on Monday, too.

Mail and packages

The U.S. Postal Service will not deliver mail on Monday. FedEx (FDX) will offer modified service in certain instances. UPS (UPS) will not offer pickup or delivery service.

Banks

Banks are generally closed, according to GoBankingRates.com. Of course, you can still make transactions using an ATM or your banking app.

Government offices

Since MLK Day is a federal holiday, all nonessential federal government offices are closed. The same generally applies to state government offices.

Schools

Schools are typically closed on MLK Day, though there have been exceptions. It's always best to check with your school or school district.

Stores

Stores are likely to be open on MLK Day - and many use the occasion to promote sales.

-Charles Passy

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01-15-24 0803ET

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