What is open and closed on MLK Day and Inauguration Day

On January 20, 2025By Littum

Trump & Vance lay wreaths at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier

President-elect Donald Trump and Vice President-elect JD Vance place a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington National Cemetery in Virginia.

WASHINGTON – President-elect Donald Trump is is sworn in as president of the United States on Monday, January 20 – the same day as Martin Luther King Jr. Day as the nation commemorates the legacy of the late civil rights leader.

Why is Inauguration Day on January 20?

The backstory:

January 20 is celebrated as inauguration day because of the 20th amendment.

“The 20th Amendment to the Constitution specifies that the term of office of each elected President of the United States begins at noon on January 20 of the year following the election,” according to the Architect of the Capitol. “Each president must take the oath of office before assuming the duties of office.”

At one point, according to History.com, a four-month gap pushed Inauguration Day to March of the year following the election. This long period of paralysis often caused problems between the outgoing administration and the incoming administration. In 1933, the time was shortened to January of the year after the election, finally allowing the president-elect to address issues more quickly.

If January 20th happens to fall on a Sunday, the oath is still taken on Inauguration Day – just privately – before a public inauguration ceremony on January 21st.

In preparation for the upcoming US President Donald Trump’s second inauguration in Washington, DC, security measures have been significantly tightened around the US capital and its surroundings. (Photo by Celal Gunes/Anadolu via Getty Images)

When is MLK Day 2025 and why is it on Inauguration Day?

Big picture:

Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a federal holiday that celebrates the life and legacy of civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. The holiday is celebrated on the third Monday in January each year, around the time of the King’s birthday, which is. 15 January.

“We also remember the timeless values he taught us through his example – the values of courage, truth, justice, compassion, dignity, humility and service that so brilliantly defined Dr. King’s character and strengthened his leadership,” according to the United States State Press. “On this holiday we celebrate the universal, unconditional love, forgiveness and non-violence that fueled his revolutionary spirit.”

Occasionally, Martin Luther King Jr. Day falls on Inauguration Day. However, the two dates are not directly connected.

Are the post office, UPS and FedEx open?

US Postal Service notes Martin Luther King, Jr., Day as a federal holidaywhich means there will be no regular mail delivery. Its retail branches are also closed.

UPS Critical Express is availablebut UPS Domestic Ground, Air & International is closed. “Limited” UPS stores are open.

Meanwhile FedEx is open, with modified service on FedEx Express and FedEx Ground Economy.

Are the banks open?

The Federal Reserve is closed on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, which means that the vast majority of banks will also be closed in recognition of the day.

ATMs and online banking will be available.

Is the stock market open?

No. New York Stock Exchange observes Martin Luther King, Jr. Daywhich does Nasdaq.

The source: This story was written based on information released by the US government, US Postal Service, UPS, FedEx, various banks, NYSE and Nasdaq. It was reported from Cincinnati and FOX 5 DC contributed.

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