Merry Christmas!
Christmas, a sacred day on the Christian calendar, falls on a Sunday this year. That means many government offices, businesses and service providers will be closed not only on Dec. 25 but also on Monday, Dec. 26, the day that’s being federally observed. (Hours may be limited at some places of business on Dec. 24, Christmas Eve, as well.)
Financial markets — the New York Stock Exchange, the Nasdaq and bond markets — are ordinarily closed on Dec. 25, and they will also be closed on Dec. 26 this year. But what about everything else? Here’s a rundown of what you can expect.
Mail and packages
The United States Postal Service (USPS) will not deliver mail on Dec. 25 or Dec. 26, and local post offices will also be closed. Priority Express Mail, however, will be delivered both days.
Fedex
FDX,
will not offer service on Dec. 25, except for Custom Critical deliveries, but it will offer most services on Dec. 26, except for FedEx Express deliveries.
UPS
UPS,
will not deliver or pick up on Dec. 25 or Dec. 26, though UPS Express Critical Service is available both days.
Banks
Most banks will be closed on Dec. 25 and Dec. 26, although TD Bank is a notable exception in that it will be open on Dec. 26 during normal hours. But you can always visit an ATM or use your bank’s app for certain services.
Government offices
All nonessential federal offices are closed on Dec. 25 and Dec. 26, and the same generally applies to state government offices.
Schools
Public schools and many private schools generally won’t be open on Dec. 25 and Dec. 26, which for most schools fall during the longer winter break.
Stores
If you need to do any shopping on Dec. 25, you’ll have limited options. Certain supermarkets and pharmacy and convenience stores will be open, according to a number of websites. But on Dec. 26, you’ll find most stores open as usual — just expect the usual day-after-Christmas lines at the returns desk!
Restaurants
As with stores, many restaurants will be closed on Christmas Day, but there are exceptions, ranging from Benihana to Waffle House. On Dec. 26, restaurants should be operating as usual.