Labor Day: Markets and Postal Services Closed as Travel Rises

Millions of Americans observed Labor Day on Monday, Sept. 1, marking the federal holiday that honors the nation’s workers while producing a mix of closures, heavy travel and widespread retail sales across the United States. Financial markets, major banks and the U.S. Postal Service were closed for the day, while most grocery stores, big-box retailers and restaurants remained open, often with holiday hours and discounts.

The New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq were closed for the holiday and resumed normal trading on Tuesday, Sept. 2, and the Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association and others said U.S. bond markets also took the day off. Major banks including Bank of America, JPMorgan Chase and Wells Fargo did not offer branch services. The U.S. Postal Service suspended regular mail and retail post office operations, and FedEx and UPS halted routine pick-up and delivery services, with some retail outlets operating on modified schedules.

Retail behavior followed familiar patterns. Warehouse chain Costco closed its warehouses for the holiday, while Walmart, Target and most supermarket chains remained open, though hours varied by location. Pharmacies and fast-food...