What businesses are closed on Inauguration Day?
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WASHINGTON - This year, Inauguration Day and Martin Luther King Jr. Day will share the spotlight, making Monday, Jan. 20, a uniquely historic holiday.
While the day honors King’s legacy as a national day of service, it also marks the swearing-in of the new president, bringing about some notable changes to regular operations.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day became a federal holiday in 1983, nearly 20 years after King’s assassination. By 2000, all 50 states observed the holiday.
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Inauguration Day, however, typically only affects federal employees in Washington, D.C., and certain federal offices.
This year, with both events falling on the same day, many Americans will have a day off, though not specifically because of Inauguration Day.
Here are some of the businesses and agencies that are closed on Inauguration Day.
President-elect Donald Trump walks to take his seat for the inaugural swearing-in ceremony at the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C., Friday, January 20, 2017. (Official White House Photo by Shealah Craighead)
Stores and Restaurants
Most grocery stores, chain restaurants, and big-box retailers will be open.
However, as with any major holiday, some businesses may adjust their hours, so it’s a good idea to check with local establishments before heading out.
Some eligible D.C. businesses have been approved for extended alcohol service hours during the 60th Presidential Inauguration Week. A list of approved vendors can be viewed here.
Banks and Financial Institutions
In recognition of Martin Luther King Jr. Day, most banks will be closed as the Federal Reserve observes the holiday. Though banks aren’t required to close on federal holidays, many do, so it's wise to check with your local branch ahead of time. The New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq will also be closed.
Postal Service
Post offices will be closed, meaning there will be no mail or package delivery from the United States Postal Service on Monday. UPS will not provide pickup or delivery services either, though some store locations may be closed. UPS Express Critical service remains available 24 hours a day. FedEx services will be open with some modifications.
Court and Government Offices
All federal offices and courts will be closed on Monday. However, state government offices may still be open, and local courts may operate under different schedules.
National Parks
In honor of MLK Day, national parks will waive entrance fees as part of the first fee-free day of the year. Additionally, the National Park Service will offer volunteer opportunities for those looking to participate in service projects.
Metro
Per the request of the United States Secret Service and the United States Capitol Police, Metrorail will open at 4 a.m. on Monday, Jan. 20 to accommodate the crowds.
Metro General Manager and CEO Randy Clarke said over 900 uniformed security personnel will be monitoring the transit system during the inaugural events. Clarke said that the transit system will open at 4 a.m. on inauguration day to assist with crowds.
Six stations will be closed, and trains will bypass these stations for security reasons from Sunday, Jan. 19 at 8 p.m. until 5 a.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 21.
The Source: The information in this report comes from DC.gov, WMATA, and NPS.