Post office, DMV, Publix: What will be open and what will be closed for Labor Day?

Cheryl McCloud, Florida Today

Updated August 17, 2023 at 10:31 AM·4 min read

Labor Day 2023 is almost here.

Often considered the unofficial end of summer, the holiday's roots go back into the late 1800s and have nothing to do with summer but everything to do with workers.

But "recreation and amusement of the workers and their families" has been part of the holiday since its inception.

Here's what will be closed in Florida on Labor Day, along with some history and what sales have been announced. Check back, this list may be updated.

When is Labor Day 2023?

Labor Day is celebrated on the first Monday of September. This year, the holiday will be on Sept. 4.

Is Labor Day a federal holiday?

Yes. Labor Day is one of 11 holidays for federal employees.

Is Labor Day a Florida holiday?

Yes. Labor Day is one of nine holidays for state employees.

Why do we celebrate Labor Day?

Labor Day is an annual celebration of the achievements of American workers, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.

The holiday is rooted in the late nineteenth century, when labor activists pushed for a federal holiday to recognize contributions workers have made to America’s strength, prosperity, and well-being.

Oregon was the first state to pass a law — on Feb. 21, 1887 — recognizing Labor Day. On June 28, 1894, President Grover Cleveland signed a law making the first Monday in September of each year a legal holiday.

Many Americans celebrate Labor Day with parades, picnics and parties.

In the proposal for a national holiday, it was suggested the day should be observed with a street parade to exhibit "the strength and esprit de corps of the trade and labor organizations" of the community, followed by a festival for the recreation and amusement of the workers and their families, according to the U.S. Department of Labor.

Does mail get delivered on Labor Day?

No. All U.S. post offices will be closed Sept. 4 and there will be no regular mail delivery.

Is UPS open on Labor Day? How about FedEx?

There will be no UPS pickup or delivery service on Sept. 4, and store locations will be closed.

UPS Express Critical services will be available, according to its holiday schedule.

There will be no FedEx home delivery on Sept. 4. Offices will have modified hours so check before you go..

Are banks closed on Labor Day?

Most banks follow the Federal Reserve's holiday schedule and will be closed on Labor Day.

ATMs and ATM branches will still be operating normally.

Is the stock market open on Labor Day?

No. The U.S. Stock Market, including the Nasdaq and New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) will close at 4 p.m. ET Friday, Sept. 1, and will not open again until 9:30 a.m. EDT on Tuesday, Sept. 5.

Are government offices open on Labor Day?

All non-essential federal offices will be closed. Florida state offices will be closed. Most local government and law enforcement administrative offices will be closed.

Check with your local government office before you go.

Will the DMV be open on Labor Day in Florida?

No. Offices will be closed Saturday, Sept. 2 and Monday, Sept. 4.

Are courts closed on Labor Day?

All federal courthouses will be closed, along with the 20 circuit courts in Florida.

Will restaurants be closed on Labor Day? Will Chick-fil-A be open?

Almost all major and local restaurants are expected to be open on Labor Day, along with Publix and other grocery and convenience stores.

Major fast food chains such as McDonalds, Wendys, Burger King, and KFC all will be open the usual times. Some, like Chick-fil-A, may have limited hours. Call ahead to be sure.