Martin Luther King Jr. Day, celebrated today, coincides with the inauguration of President-elect Donald Trump, marking only the third time these significant events have overlapped in U.S. history.
Established in 1983, Martin Luther King Jr. Day is observed annually on the third Monday of January to honor the civil rights leader and his lifelong fight for equality and nonviolence. The holiday was first observed in 1986. However, it wasn’t until 2000 that every U.S. state officially recognized it. The day is widely seen as an opportunity for community service and reflection on King’s vision of a society free from racial injustice. 
Major retailers like Costco, Target, Walmart, and Goodwill will remain open, offering customers a variety of sales. Additionally, entry to national parks across the country is free today in celebration of the holiday.
Many government institutions and services will be closed in observance. In Chicago, city offices will not operate, and USPS will not provide regular mail delivery. However, Amazon, FedEx, and UPS will continue deliveries. Most banks, including Capital One, Bank of America, Wells Fargo, and Chase, are also closed.
If you plan to visit specific institutions or stores, it’s recommended to check their operating hours, as schedules may vary. This federal holiday also serves as a moment to honor King’s enduring legacy and his dream of equality for all Americans.
