Patriot Day 2026: Is September 11 a Federal Holiday in US? What Is Open and Closed Today?

Patriot Day is observed across the United States on September 11 each year to remember the nearly 3,000 people killed in the 2001 terrorist attacks. But is Patriot Day a federal holiday, and will schools, banks, post offices and government offices be closed on Friday?

Patriot Day is not a federal holiday, meaning most government offices and businesses will operate normally on Friday. Although Congress designated September 11 as Patriot Day, the date was not added to the list of federal holidays that provide federal employees with a day off. The day is also observed as the National Day of Service and Remembrance. The 2026 observance is especially significant because it marks the 25th anniversary of the September 11 attacks.

Are Banks Open on Patriot Day 2026?

Banks are generally open on Sept. 11. Major banks are not required to close for Patriot Day because it is not a federal banking holiday.

Branch hours can vary by location, and some banks may alter their schedules because of local 9/11 ceremonies or other circumstances. Customers should check with their individual branch before visiting. Online banking, mobile banking and ATMs are also expected to remain available.

Is USPS Open on September 11?

USPS is expected to operate normally on Sept. 11, 2026. Post offices are generally expected to follow their normal Friday schedules, and regular mail delivery is expected to continue. Customers should nevertheless check their local post office for any location-specific changes.

Are Stores and Restaurants Open on September 11?

Most stores, restaurants and other private businesses are expected to remain open. Retailers, supermarkets, restaurants and other businesses can set their own operating hours, so customers should check individual locations if they are planning a visit.

Will the Stock Market Be Open on September 11?

U.S. stock markets are expected to operate normally on Friday, September 11, 2026. Investors should still check individual exchange calendars for any extraordinary schedule changes.

Why Is September 11 Called Patriot Day?

Patriot Day was established to honor the victims of the September 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.

On that morning, hijackers took control of four commercial airplanes. Two planes were flown into New York City’s World Trade Center, another struck the Pentagon and a fourth crashed near Shanksville, Pennsylvania, after passengers and crew attempted to regain control of the aircraft. Nearly 3,000 people were killed.

What Happens on Patriot Day 2026?

The 2026 observance is expected to include memorial ceremonies, moments of silence, flag displays and events honoring victims, survivors and first responders.

The 25th anniversary will bring major commemorations at the World Trade Center in New York, the Pentagon in Virginia and the Flight 93 National Memorial in Pennsylvania. President Donald Trump is scheduled to attend the Pentagon ceremony, while Vice President JD Vance is expected at the New York observance.

“For millions of Americans, the memories of September 11, 2001, remain as vivid today as they were 25 years ago. We will never forget the 2,977 precious lives taken from us, we will always cherish their memories, and we will forever hold their families in the enduring embrace of ourNation. We stand in unending gratitude to the first responders who answered the call of duty, including the thousands who continue to suffer from serious health conditions caused by their service. We honor the warriors of our Armed Forces who have defended the sacred cause of freedom in the quarter century since. Above all,we ask Almighty God to keep our Republic forever safe, forever united, and forever free,” President Donald Trump wrote in a White House statement on Thursday.

Patriot Day 2026: What’s Open and Closed?