Memorial Day 2026 lands on its earliest possible date, giving Americans a three-day weekend that starts before June. For those who forgot to stock up on grill supplies or beach gear, most retailers will be open, making last-minute shopping relatively easy.
Unlike Christmas or Thanksgiving, when nearly everything shuts down, Memorial Day is a lighter federal holiday. The U.S. Postal Service, banks, libraries, and government offices will be closed. UPS, FedEx, and Amazon are also not delivering. Costco and Raising Cane's are confirmed closed, so the $1.50 hot dog deal and that Cane's Sauce will have to wait.
However, a long list of major retailers will be open, though hours may vary. Shoppers should call ahead or check online. Among those open: Ace Hardware, Aldi, Best Buy, Cabela's and Bass Pro Shops, CVS, Dick's Sporting Goods, Dollar General, Dollar Tree, Kroger family stores, Family Dollar, Hobby Lobby, Home Depot, Home Goods, Homesense, IKEA, JCPenney, Kohl's, Lowe's, Macy's, Marshalls, Petco, PetSmart, Publix, REI, Sam's Club, Sierra, Target, Trader Joe's, TJ Maxx, Walgreens, Walmart, Wegmans, and Whole Foods.
Most restaurant chains are also open, though some may operate on reduced hours. Gas stations and convenience stores typically keep regular schedules.
For those hitting the road, check out our guide to the worst highways and peak travel times to avoid delays. AAA predicts a record 45 million travelers for the 2026 Memorial Day weekend, so expect heavy traffic.
The holiday also brings political attention. President Trump used a wreath-laying ceremony to attack Democrats over military issues, as covered in our report on the event. Meanwhile, California Governor Gavin Newsom urged drivers to boycott Chevron amid a gas price dispute, detailed in this story.
The next major holiday with potential closings is July 4, which falls on a Saturday this year, so many businesses may adjust their hours accordingly.
