Patriots’ Day, a holiday steeped in American history, is celebrated annually on the third Monday of April. While it may not be a widely recognized holiday across the United States, it holds significant importance in several states, particularly in Massachusetts where it originated. As the holiday approaches, many wonder about its impact on various aspects of daily life, including bank operations, school closures, and business hours. In this article, we’ll delve into the history and significance of Patriots’ Day, explore its observance in different states, and provide a comprehensive guide on what’s open and closed on this day in 2024.
What is Patriots’ Day?
Origins and Significance of Patriots’ Day
Patriots’ Day is a holiday that commemorates the battles of Lexington and Concord, which marked the beginning of the American Revolutionary War on April 19, 1775. The holiday was first celebrated in Massachusetts in 1894, as a way to resolve a rivalry between the towns of Lexington and Concord over which one could claim to be the birthplace of the American Revolution.
The holiday was proclaimed by then-governor Frederic Greenhalge, who wanted to honor the bravery and sacrifice of the American colonists who fought against the British forces. Today, Patriots’ Day is celebrated not only in Massachusetts but also in a few other states, each with its own unique traditions and observances.
How Patriots’ Day is Celebrated
Patriots’ Day celebrations often include historical reenactments of the battles of Lexington and Concord, as well as parades and other festive events. One of the most famous traditions associated with the holiday is the running of the Boston Marathon, which has been held on Patriots’ Day since 1897. The marathon starts at 9:02 a.m. ET, in commemoration of the time when the first shots of the American Revolution were fired.
Another popular tradition is the Boston Red Sox game, which has been played on Patriots’ Day since 1959. The game starts at 11:10 a.m. ET, allowing fans to watch the marathon and then head over to Fenway Park for an early afternoon ballgame. In 2024, the Red Sox are scheduled to play against the Cleveland Guardians on Patriots’ Day.
Is Patriots’ Day a Bank Holiday?
Bank Closures on Patriots’ Day
Despite its historical significance, Patriots’ Day is not a federal holiday, which means that most banks will remain open on this day. However, some banks may have limited hours or be closed in states where the holiday is officially observed, such as Massachusetts and Maine.
| Holiday | Date | Status |
|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | Monday, January 1, 2024 | Closed |
| Martin Luther King Jr. Day | Monday, January 15, 2024 | Closed |
| Presidents Day | Monday, February 19, 2024 | Closed |
| Patriots’ Day | Monday, April 15, 2024 | Open |
| Memorial Day | Monday, May 27, 2024 | Closed |
| Juneteenth/Emancipation Day | Wednesday, June 19, 2024 | Closed |
| Independence Day | Thursday, July 4, 2024 | Closed |
As seen in the table above, while most major holidays are observed by banks, resulting in closures, Patriots’ Day is an exception, with most banks remaining open.
Other Business and Office Closures
In states where Patriots’ Day is an official holiday, such as Massachusetts and Maine, many government offices, schools, and businesses may be closed. However, the extent of these closures can vary depending on the state and the individual institution. Some businesses may choose to remain open, particularly those in the retail and hospitality sectors, to cater to the increased foot traffic from holiday events and tourism.
It’s always a good idea to check with your local government offices, schools, and businesses to confirm their hours of operation on Patriots’ Day, especially if you reside in a state where the holiday is observed.
Patriots’ Day Observance by State
States That Officially Celebrate Patriots’ Day
Massachusetts and Maine are the two states that officially celebrate Patriots’ Day as a state holiday. In these states, the holiday is observed on the third Monday of April, and many schools, government offices, and businesses may be closed.
Interestingly, Maine is the only state that refers to the holiday as “Patriot’s Day” (singular), while the rest of the country uses the plural form “Patriots’ Day.”
States That Recognize Patriots’ Day
While not officially celebrated as a state holiday, Wisconsin recognizes Patriots’ Day as a school holiday, meaning that many schools in the state may be closed on this day. Florida also recognizes the holiday, although it is not an official state holiday. In North Dakota, Patriots’ Day has been recognized since 2021, but like Florida, it is not an official state holiday.
What’s Open and Closed on Patriots’ Day 2024
Bank Hours on Patriots’ Day
As previously mentioned, most banks will remain open on Patriots’ Day, as it is not a federal holiday. However, some banks in states that officially observe the holiday, such as Massachusetts and Maine, may have limited hours or be closed. It’s always best to check with your local bank branch or visit their website for specific information on their Patriots’ Day hours.
Government Offices and Services
In states where Patriots’ Day is an official holiday, many state and municipal offices may be closed. However, federal offices will remain open, as Patriots’ Day is not a federal holiday. If you need to conduct business with a government office on Patriots’ Day, it’s advisable to call ahead or check their website to confirm their hours of operation.
Schools and Universities
Public schools in Massachusetts, Maine, and Wisconsin may be closed on Patriots’ Day, as the holiday is officially observed or recognized in these states. Private schools and universities may also choose to close or operate on a limited schedule. It’s best to check with your local school district or individual institution for specific information on their Patriots’ Day closures.
Businesses and Retail Stores
The impact of Patriots’ Day on businesses and retail stores can vary depending on the state and the individual establishment. In states where the holiday is officially observed, some businesses may choose to close or operate on a limited schedule. However, many retailers, grocery stores, and restaurants may remain open, particularly in areas where Patriots’ Day events and celebrations attract large crowds. It’s always a good idea to check with individual businesses for their specific Patriots’ Day hours.
See also:
- Is Indigenous Peoples Day a Bank Holiday: What’s Open and Closed on Columbus Day
- Is Indigenous Day a Bank Holiday? Find Out Here
- Is Good Friday a Bank Holiday? – Everything You Need to Know
- Is Veterans Day a Bank Holiday – Everything You Need to Know
- Is Columbus Day a Bank Holiday? | Federal Bank Holidays