The United States is preparing to observe Veterans Day 2025 on Tuesday, November 11, a date rooted in the historic armistice that ended World War I at “the eleventh hour of the eleventh day of the eleventh month.” Recognized as a federal holiday, the day honors U.S. veterans for their service, sacrifice, and commitment to the nation. As Americans pause to reflect, schedules across banks, post offices, schools, shipping services, and businesses will shift nationwide.
Meanwhile, major restaurant chains and stores are offering special deals to veterans and active-duty personnel. Here’s a complete, verified guide to what you need to know.
Key Points About Veterans Day 2025: Closures, Services, Deals and National Observances
• Veterans Day is a federal holiday celebrated annually on November 11, honoring all living U.S. veterans and active-duty service members.
• Banks and post offices across the country will remain closed, while ATMs and online banking continue operating.
• USPS mail delivery will stop for the day, but UPS and FedEx will run modified or normal schedules.
• Schools, government offices, courts, and the DMV in major cities like New York and Los Angeles will be closed.
• Restaurants including Applebee’s, Starbucks, Chipotle, Krispy Kreme, Red Lobster, and Cracker Barrel will offer free meals and discounts to veterans with ID.
• The NYSE will remain open, though U.S. bond markets will be closed.
What Is Veterans Day and Why It Matters
Veterans Day traces back to the armistice that ended hostilities in World War I on November 11, 1918. The date was first recognized as Armistice Day and became a federal holiday in 1938. In 1954, following World War II, President Dwight D. Eisenhower renamed it Veterans Day to honor all American veterans.
Congress preserved November 11 as the fixed date because of its historical significance. The day acknowledges veterans’ patriotism, love of country, and willingness to serve for the common good, as recognized by the Department of Veterans Affairs.
Are Banks Open on Veterans Day 2025?
Most major U.S. banks will be closed on Tuesday, November 11, in observance of the federal holiday. Institutions such as Bank of America, Wells Fargo, JPMorgan Chase, Citibank, PNC, Capital One, Truist, and TD Bank will close their branches. Although physical locations will be shut, online banking services, mobile apps, and ATMs remain available. Any transactions requiring human processing, such as large deposits or in-person financial services, will resume on Wednesday, November 12.
Will There Be Classes in Schools?
School operations vary by district, but many public schools across the country will be closed. New York City Public Schools, Chicago Public Schools, and the Los Angeles Unified School District are among those observing the holiday. Families should check local schedules to confirm closures or limited services.
Are Post Offices and Mail Services Closed on Veterans Day?
USPS post offices will be fully closed on November 11. There will be no domestic mail delivery, no window services, and no regular package drop-offs. Automated self-service kiosks in select lobbies may remain open, depending on location. Individuals needing urgent mail services are advised to complete shipments before Monday, November 10.
UPS and FedEx: How Are They Operating?
UPS pickup and delivery will run normally. However, shipments relying on USPS integration, such as UPS SurePost and UPS Mail Innovations, may experience an additional transit day.
FedEx will operate on a modified schedule. Most FedEx services, including FedEx Freight, will run normally, although certain parcel services may adjust hours or delivery timing.
Is the Stock Exchange Open on Veterans Day?
Unlike many federal holidays, the New York Stock Exchange remains open on Veterans Day. Investors should note, however, that U.S. bond markets will be closed for the day, following standard practice.
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Which Businesses and Stores Are Open?
Veterans Day does not legally require private businesses to close, so availability varies. Most retail stores, restaurants, and supermarkets will operate as usual, although some independent businesses may adjust hours. Shoppers are encouraged to check local listings.
Veterans Day Deals, Discounts, and Free Meals for 2025
Across the country, businesses are offering special deals to veterans and active-duty military personnel as a gesture of appreciation. Most require a valid military ID such as a DD214 or
What’s Closed in Major Cities Like New York?
In New York City, government offices including the DMV, courts, Social Security offices, and post offices will remain closed in observance of the holiday. Public transportation continues operating normally, but administrative services pause for the day.
Reflecting on the Significance of November 11
Veterans Day is more than closures and schedule changes. It stands as a national moment of gratitude, rooted in the 1918 armistice that ended World War I and formally recognized through congressional action in 1926. By 1938, it was a holiday dedicated to world peace, later expanded to honor all veterans. The date represents both historical symbolism and national appreciation.
A Broader Look at How America Honors Its Veterans
As the nation observes Veterans Day 2025, Americans adjust their routines while acknowledging the service of millions who have defended the country. Whether through ceremonial events, quiet reflection, or community participation, the day remains a reminder of sacrifice and courage. Government closures, modified services, and widespread appreciation offers reflect the country’s commitment to recognizing those who served in uniform.
FAQs on Veterans Day 2025
1. Is Veterans Day 2025 a federal holiday?
Yes. Veterans Day is a federal holiday on November 11, so government offices, post offices, and most banks remain closed nationwide.
2. Are USPS, UPS, and FedEx delivering on Veterans Day?
USPS stops all deliveries. UPS and FedEx operate normally, but UPS SurePost and Mail Innovations may face an extra transit day.
3. Are banks open on Veterans Day 2025?
Most major banks, including Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Citibank, will be closed. ATMs and online banking remain available.
4. Are schools open on Veterans Day?
Many school districts close. NYC Public Schools, Chicago Public Schools, and Los Angeles Unified School District will all be closed on November 11.
5. What deals are available for veterans on November 11?
Many chains offer free meals and discounts, including Applebee’s, Chipotle, Starbucks, Krispy Kreme, Red Lobster, and Cracker Barrel with valid military ID.
