Is The Post Office Closed on Christmas Eve 2021?

While spending time with family and friends is usually a priority during the later part of the holiday season, many people also need to run errands. In some cases, that means heading to the post office to pick up deliveries or send outgoing mail on its way. If you might need to make a trip to the post office on December 24, you’re probably wondering, “Is the post office closed on Christmas Eve 2021?” If so, here’s what you need to know.

Is the Post Office Closed on Christmas Eve 2021?

No, the post office is not closed on Christmas Eve. While the post office typically follows the federal holiday schedule, there are some exceptions, and December 24 happens to be one.

Since Christmas Day falls on a Saturday – a day of the week when many federal offices are already closed – the federal holiday schedule observes the holiday on the Friday before. That means many federal agencies are closing on Christmas Eve.

However, the post office typically has weekend operations. While not all post offices welcome customers on Saturdays, some do. As a result, the post office is observing Christmas Day on December 25 instead of December 24, ensuring its employees have Christmas Day off.

Will the Post Office Have Extended Holiday Hours on Christmas Eve 2021?

Some post offices may offer extended holiday hours on Christmas Eve. However, others may be closing early in preparation for the holiday.

Which applies to your post office may depend on whether it’s high traffic, as those that traditionally see a lot of activity are more likely to offer standard or extended hours instead of closing early. But since the operating hours can vary and being a high-traffic location doesn’t guarantee extended hours, it’s always best to check the schedule in advance. That way, if you need to head to the post office before Christmas Day, you know when services will be available.

Will There Be Mail Pickup and Delivery on Christmas Eve?

Yes, mail delivery and pickup will proceed as normal on Christmas Eve. Mail carriers will be bringing items to individuals and businesses, picking up outgoing mail, and emptying mail collection boxes.

It is important to note that the timing of pickups and deliveries may vary. The Christmas shipping season tends to be incredibly busy. As a result, it may take carriers longer to complete routes than usual, causing mail to arrive or be picked up later in the day.

Additionally, pickups at blue collection boxes may occur on an alternate schedule. As a result, it’s best to ensure that your items are deposited before noon on Christmas Eve to make sure that they’ll get retrieved that day.

USPS Holiday Schedule 2022

If you’re wondering about post office closures during 2022, looking at the holiday schedule now is a wise move. Here is an overview of USPS holiday closures in 2022:

New Year’s Day – Saturday, January 1
Martin Luther King, Jr. Day – Monday, January 17
President’s Day – Monday, February 21
Memorial Day – Monday, May 30
Juneteenth – Monday, June 20 (Observed)
Independence Day – Monday, July 4
Labor Day – Monday, September 5
Columbus Day – Monday, October 10
Veterans Day – Friday, November 11
Thanksgiving Day – Thursday, November 24
Christmas Day – Monday, December 26 (Observed)

Are UPS and FedEx Closed on Christmas Eve?

No, neither UPS nor FedEx is closed on Christmas Eve. Both shipping companies are offering normal home delivery services, as well as specific pickup services. However, some services are modified or limited, so you may want to review the shipper’s exact schedule if you aren’t using a conventional option.

Do you typically need to head to the post office on Christmas Eve? If so, what are you usually tackling while there? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

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