Question 1

Is Martin Luther King Jr. Day an official federal holiday?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Martin Luther King Jr. Day is an official federal holiday in the United States established under Title 5 of the United States Code (5 U.S.C. 6103). It was signed into law by President Ronald Reagan in 1983 and observed nationwide on the third Monday of January.

Question 2

Are banks, post offices, and federal offices closed on MLK Day?

Accepted Answer

Yes. All non-essential federal government offices, U.S. Postal Service branches, federal courts, and Federal Reserve banks are closed. Most commercial banks, public schools, and municipal offices are also closed, while private retail stores and restaurants generally remain open.

Question 3

Is the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) closed on MLK Day?

Accepted Answer

Yes. The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and Nasdaq are closed in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day. U.S. equity and bond markets resume regular trading sessions at 9:30 AM Eastern Time on Tuesday morning.

Question 4

Why is Martin Luther King Jr. Day known as a 'Day of Service'?

Accepted Answer

In 1994, Congress passed the King Holiday and Service Act, transforming the holiday into a National Day of Service. Often summarized as 'a day on, not a day off,' it encourages Americans across all 50 states to honor Dr. King's legacy through volunteerism, youth mentoring, and community problem-solving.

Question 5

When was Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. born?

Accepted Answer

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. was born on January 15, 1929, in Atlanta, Georgia. Because the Uniform Monday Holiday Act places the observance on the third Monday of January, the holiday always falls between January 15 and January 21.

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Weekend 2026

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day Weekend 2026

Martin Luther King, Jr. Day FAQ