Martin Luther King Jr. Day, a federal holiday marked by remembrance and service, often leads to questions about whether retail chains and public services are affected. Many government agencies, schools, and financial institutions pause operations on this day, but retailers frequently remain open to accommodate increased demand from shoppers who have the day off.
Established as a national holiday in 1983 and officially observed by all 50 states since 2000, Martin Luther King Jr. Day has become both a moment of reflection and an opportunity for community service. While commemorative events are held across the country, many Americans also use the time to run errands, shop for necessities, or simply take advantage of a weekday off, making the operational status of stores like Walmart particularly relevant.
Walmart Will Be Open Nationwide, Standard Hours Apply
Walmart stores across the United States will remain open during regular business hours on Monday, January 19, 2026. According to Marca, most Walmart locations will operate between 6:00 a.m. and 11:00 p.m. While these are standard hours for the chain, some locations may adjust slightly based on local conditions or staffing, so customers are encouraged to check with their local store for specific details.
Unlike federal services and government agencies, which will be closed in observance of the holiday, Walmart continues its practice of staying open during nearly all public holidays. According to the same source, Walmart only plans to close its stores on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day in 2026. This consistency has made the chain a reliable stop for last-minute shopping and essential purchases, especially on days when other services are unavailable.
Across the retail sector more broadly, operations are largely unaffected by the holiday. Most national supermarket chains, including Target, Costco, and Aldi, will also remain open on January 19. Retailers like CVS, Walgreens, and even smaller grocery chains are expected to maintain normal schedules as well.
In-Store Services May Vary Depending on the Department
While Walmart‘s main retail floors will be fully operational, certain departments and in-store services could follow adjusted schedules. Pharmacy counters and vision centers typically remain open on Martin Luther King Jr. Day but may operate with reduced hours. Customers requiring prescription refills or optical services are advised to confirm availability before visiting.
Other integrated services within Walmart, such as bank branches, auto centers, and hair salons, may not follow the main store’s hours. Since many of these are independently managed and tied to federal banking schedules, it’s common for them to remain closed during national holidays. Banks located inside Walmart will be closed on January 19, aligning with the broader banking sector’s observance of the federal holiday.
Pickup and delivery services will continue to function normally, although shoppers should anticipate potential delays or increased demand. Online orders for same-day pickup or delivery will be accepted, but scheduling ahead of time is recommended due to expected volume surges.
Shoppers planning to visit other major retailers will find that many follow similar operating procedures. Costco, Sam’s Club, Trader Joe’s, and Whole Foods are all expected to keep their doors open, with hours varying slightly depending on location. Walmart’s decision to remain open provides convenience for millions of Americans navigating a day of closures elsewhere.
