Labor Day — the unofficial end of summer — is almost here, bringing with it barbecues, sales, and a much-needed long weekend. In 2025, the federal holiday falls on Monday, September 1, giving Americans across the country a chance to relax and celebrate the contributions of workers to the nation’s strength and prosperity.
While many look forward to the festivities, it’s important to know what will and won’t be open during the holiday. Here’s your quick guide for Labor Day 2025 in the U.S.
What is Labor Day?
Labor Day has its roots in the late 19th century, when organized labor groups pushed for a day to recognize the hard work of American workers. The U.S. Department of Labor describes it as a celebration of the “many contributions workers have made to America’s strength, prosperity, and well-being.”
Will Grocery Stores Be Open on Labor Day 2025?
Good news for last-minute shoppers: most major grocery chains will remain open. Stores like Walmart and Target will be welcoming customers all day, making it easy to grab supplies for your cookout or weekend trip.
However, not every retailer will follow suit. Costco and certain local stores will be closed, so it’s wise to check hours ahead of time to avoid surprises.
Mail and Delivery Services
If you’re expecting a package or planning to send mail, you’ll need to wait until Tuesday. The United States Postal Service (USPS) will be closed, along with UPS and FedEx services. No regular mail or package deliveries will occur on the holiday.
Are Government Offices Open?
Since Labor Day is a federal holiday, all state, local, and federal offices will be closed. This includes courthouses, DMVs, and other government-run services.
Labor Day Sales and Shopping Deals
Labor Day weekend is famous for big sales, and 2025 will be no different. Retailers such as Amazon, Target, and Walmart are expected to offer deep discounts on electronics, home goods, apparel, and more. Many of these sales start in mid-August and last through the holiday weekend, so shoppers can score deals well before September 1.
Bottom Line:
Labor Day 2025 is a time to honor American workers while enjoying the last stretch of summer. Most grocery stores will be open, government services will pause, and shoppers can take advantage of major holiday sales. Just be sure to double-check store hours before heading out — and don’t expect any mail deliveries until after the holiday.
