"A poor but humble man who gives nothing to charity is preferrable to a rich but haughty man who does." - Nachman of Bratslav

SavingAdvice.com Blog

Bridging the gap between saving money and investing

Columbus Day

Is Walmart Closed on Columbus Day 2020?

By Leave a Comment

is walmart closed on Columbus Day?

Columbus Day is fast approaching. This is a federal holiday that takes place on the second Monday of October. In 2020, it’s on October 12th. Although it’s a federal holiday, Columbus Day isn’t considered a major holiday. In other words, stores and services that close for big holidays such as Christmas don’t necessarily close for Columbus Day. Each place varies, though. If you’re a Walmart shopper, then you might find yourself wondering, “is Walmart closed on Columbus Day?”


What is Columbus Day?

You probably know that Columbus Day is a federal holiday honoring Christopher Columbus. More specifically, the day recognizes when Columbus “discovered” America. Celebrated in the United States for many years, this day honors his achievements as an explorer. It’s also long been a day generally celebrating Italian-Americans.

That said, it’s a controversial holiday. People were obviously already living here when Columbus landed on America’s shores. In recognition of this controversy, many people celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day on the same day that others honor Columbus.

In fact, certain states no longer recognize Columbus Day at all. That said, it is still a federal holiday. As a result, many businesses are closed on Columbus Day.

Get a $10 Costco Shop Card

Retailers Open on Columbus Day

Although the post office, banks, and other services will likely be closed on Columbus Day, most retail stores opt to stay open. If you’re interested in doing some shopping on this Monday holiday, then you should find that the stores you frequent will welcome you with open arms. Most stores are open regular hours on Columbus Day. While some stores have Columbus Day sales, it’s a typical Monday at many retail stores.


Is Walmart Closed on Columbus Day?

Like a majority of other retail stores, Walmart is open on Columbus Day. The store does not mark the holiday by closing. In fact, it’s open regular store hours. Of course, store hours vary significantly from location to location. Many Walmart stores are open 24 hours. Others have shorter hours. Just know that whatever your usual location’s hours are for a Monday, they should be the same on Columbus Day.

Are Services Within Walmart Open on Columbus Day?

Of course, Walmart stores offer a variety of different services within their stores. For example, you might utilize a bank branch when you’re at your local Walmart. Walmart also has pharmacies, vision centers, tire centers, and more.

In most cases, these services will be open on Columbus Day. However, if you need to take advantage of those services, it’s best to call your local store in advance to find out whether or not they will be closed for the federal holiday. Bank services, in particular, may close for Columbus Day.

Walmart Holiday Schedule

It’s really no surprise that Walmart will stay open on Columbus Day. This retail store likes to stay open as much as possible. The only day that Walmart closes entirely is Christmas Day. They have limited hours on Christmas Eve as well as on Thanksgiving. Otherwise, Walmart is open regular hours on holidays. Therefore, if it’s a holiday and you need to do some shopping, there’s a good chance that Walmart can meet your needs.

Give the gift of savings! Learn more

Read More:

If you enjoy reading our blog posts and would like to try your hand at blogging, we have good news for you; you can do exactly that on Saving Advice. Just click here to get started. If you want to be able to customize your blog on your own domain and need hosting service, we recommend trying BlueHost. They offer powerful hosting services for $3.95/month!

Columbus Day Deals and Freebies 2020

By Leave a Comment

Columbus Day deals

Columbus, or Indigenous Peoples’ Day, is the last shopping holiday before Black Friday. With that title comes the great responsibility of deals galore. Will it live up to its position this year amidst the pandemic? Here is a look at this year’s Columbus Day deals and freebies… 

Columbus Day Deals 2020

Although many people don’t recognize Columbus Day anymore, it still represents an opportunity for retailers to have a sale. This year’s Columbus Day deals are a little dialed down but good nonetheless.


Save big for July 4th! Rollbacks & more extra-low prices at Walmart.com

Cars

One of the bigger items that typically go on sale around the holiday are vehicles. In 2020, that is no different. Some of the best deals include 0% financing on 2020 Toyota Camrys, Subaru Foresters, Mazda Miatas, Volkswagen Tiguans, Hyundai Sonatas, and Jeep Wranglers.

Retail

Many of the retailers offering deals this year are allowing them to be redeemed online and in-store. So, you’ll be able to order your discounted items for pickup, delivery, or browse in-store (with precaution, of course). Here are some of the best Columbus Day retail deals this year.

Appliances and Home Equipment 

    • Home Depot: Receive up to 30% off refrigerators, washer and dryer sets, kitchen ranges, dishwashers, and more.
    • Lowe’s: Get up to 40% off bathroom items such as vanities, showers, toilets, bathtubs, and more.
    • Sears: You can save up to 65% off tools and 50% off tool storage. Fitness equipment and select game tables are up to 40% off.

Clothing

  • Banana Republic: Styles that are on sale are an additional 50% off this weekend. Mask purchases will get you an extra 10% off as well.
  • Bloomingdale’s: Receive 20% off Vince clothing and shoe purchases.
  • Macy’s: Get an extra 30% off select regular-priced, sale and clearance items. Shoppers can also receive 15% off beauty department items with the code VIP.

Mattresses

  • Amerisleep: Get 30% off any mattress when you order it with free contactless delivery.
  • Leesa: Receive up to $350 off mattresses plus a free mattress protector. Leesa also offers free contactless delivery options.
  • Mattress Firm: Get up to 50% off Sealy, Serta, Beautyrest, and Sleepy mattresses.
  • Nectar: With the purchase of a new mattress, you will get a free mattress protector, set of sheets, anb cooling pillows.

Freebies to Take Advantage Of

Look for free things to do in your town this weekend. There are plenty of outdoor events that allow for social distancing. If you live in San Francisco or a larger city, Google whether or not your city has a free virtually guided walking tour.

Some museums may also be free of charge over the holiday weekend. Research what events, attractions, and activities may be free for Columbus Day. Shopping wise, not many stores are handing out freebies. Be on the lookout for similar deals as to what has been available in the past.

There are also usually a number of free things happening in your state’s capitol. Check out some of these free things to do:

Read More

Is The Stock Market Open on Columbus Day 2020?

By Leave a Comment

stock market

Every holiday, people wonder if certain things are open or closed. Most often, they want to know if we can access key services such as the post office and pharmacies. Plus they want to know if retail stores are open on holidays. It’s especially confusing when a holiday is a major holiday, but not necessarily a big one. Columbus Day is the perfect example, since a lot of people don’t really do anything to “celebrate” the day, and yet it’s a federal holiday. So, what’s open and closed on Columbus Day? For example, is the stock market open on Columbus Day?

Get $10 when you sign up for Acorns Early today!

Is the Stock Market Open on Columbus Day?

Columbus Day is a federal holiday. The stock market is closed on most federal holidays. Therefore, you might assume that the stock market will close on Monday, October 12, 2020, in honor of Columbus Day. However, your assumption would be incorrect.

The stock market is open on Columbus Day. Both NYSE and NASDAQ will be open on Monday, October 12, 2020.

There are two big holidays that most other official services shut down for but the stock market does not. Columbus Day is one of them. The other is Veterans Day.  Whereas post offices and courthouses will be closed on those days, the stock market remains open.


Columbus Day Stock Market Hours

The stock market will be open normal hours on Columbus Day.

For NYSE, that means that pre-opening session is from 6:30 – 9:30 am ET. In contrast, NASDAQ opens a little bit earlier; pre-opening session starts at 4 am.

The core trading session for both will be 9:30 am – 4 pm. The late trading session for both is until 8 pm.

Are Bond Markets Open on Columbus Day?

If you’re involved in investing then you might have a vested interest in not just the stock market but also in the bond market. If so, then you’ll want to know that the bond market (SIFMA) is closed on Columbus Day. They also close for Veterans Day. Bond markets have an expanded calendar and are closed more holidays of the year than the stock market is.

Federal Holidays vs. Stock Market Holidays

As you can see, stock market holidays don’t necessarily match up with federal holidays. Columbus Day is a federal holiday. Yet, the stock market doesn’t observe this day. Interestingly, the stock market does observe (and thus closes for) Good Friday. However, Good Friday is not a federal holiday.

Therefore, while it’s a good rule of thumb to assume that many things will close on federal holidays, it’s no wonder that you might be confused about whether or not that applies to the stock market. While the stock market does close for most major holidays (Easter, Thanksgiving, Christmas, etc.), its always worth checking on other federal holidays.

Columbus Day as a Federal, but not State, Holiday

Columbus Day is a particularly tricky holiday. Over the years, it has become very controversial. Many states opt not to mark the day. Some choose to celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day alongside or instead of Columbus Day. Since it’s a complicated holiday as far as US history goes, it’s perhaps unsurprising that the stock market remains open on Columbus Day.

Read More:

If you enjoy reading our blog posts and would like to try your hand at blogging, we have good news for you; you can do exactly that on Saving Advice. Just click here to get started. Check out these helpful tools to help you save more. For investing advice, visit The Motley Fool.

What Retailers Are Open on Columbus Day 2020?

By Leave a Comment

retailers open and closed on columbus day

Monday, October 12, 2020 is Columbus Day. It’s a controversial holiday. First celebrated in the eighteenth century, it was a well-established American holiday for years. However, in the twenty-first century, with recognition of the flaws inherent in celebrating Christopher Columbus, celebrations around the holiday have changed.


Some people opt to celebrate Indigenous Peoples Day instead. Others opt not to mark the holiday at all. But what about retailers? What about services such as the post office? Here’s a look at what stays open, and what closes, on Columbus Day.

Columbus Day is a Federal Holiday

Despite the fact that it’s a controversial holiday, Columbus Day is still one of the ten federal holidays that occur throughout the year. Note that not every state recognizes the holiday. Several states mark Indigenous Peoples Day instead. But there are a lot of services that close for federal holidays, regardless of whether or not the state recognizes the day.

Get a $10 Costco Shop Card

What Closes on Federal Holidays

Since Columbus Day is a federal holiday, certain things will be closed. For example, government offices and services will be closed on Monday October 12, 2020. Courthouses will close down. Libraries will close down.

The post office will be closed. Furthermore, there won’t be any mail delivery that day. However, other shipping services, such as UPS, should be open.

Banks are also closed on Columbus Day. Credit unions usually are, too. There are a few exceptions. For example, banks inside of big retail stores sometimes stay open on Columbus Day. If they do, then they may have limited hours.

Professional services are usually closed for Columbus Day. For example, doctors, dentists, and lawyers may take the day off.

Are Schools Open on Federal Holidays?

While schools are typically closed on federal holidays, the controversy around Columbus Day makes it a little bit different. Some schools are open while other schools are closed. Check with your school to find out what the rules are. Remember that the rules might have changed since last year if your school is doing distance learning due to COVID-19.

Columbus Day Parades During COVID-19

Speaking of the coronavirus pandemic, remember that most cities have canceled Columbus Day parades in 2020. If you often attend the parades, then you might need to find something else to do. Remember, though, that a lot of other people will be trying to find things to do as well. Therefore, stores and restaurants will likely be busy.

As you’ll see below, most retail stores are open on Columbus Day. Most restaurants will be open as well. So, on the one hand, you do have a lot of options. But if other people have the same idea, then the stores might be very busy. With social distancing and limited capacity, this could mean long waits to get into the stores this year.

Retail Stores Open on Columbus Day

Although government offices close for the federal holiday, most other things remain open. In particular, most retail stores are open on Columbus Day. Of course, this can vary, especially if you like to shop at small independently-owned businesses.

Big Stores Open on Columbus Day

The big stores that you can find in most cities are likely to be open on Columbus Day. For example, Walmart is open on Columbus Day. Notably, Walmart stores have other services within them – such as vision centers, banks, pharmacies, etc. Those may or may not be open on Columbus Day. If open, they may have limited hours. Check with your local branch if you need to use those services.

Other big stores that are open on Columbus Day include:

  • Barnes and Noble, which should be open from 9 am – 10 pm
  • Best Buy, which usually has a Columbus Day sale although there’s been no 2020 sale announcement, yet
  • Bed Bath and Beyond, which is usually open from 9 am – 9:30 pm
  • BJ’s Wholesale, open 9 am – 9 pm; their extended holiday hours begin about a month later
  • Burlington, although closed some holidays, they stay open for Columbus Day
  • Costco, which is typically open from 10 am – 8:30 pm on Mondays, including Columbus Day
  • Dollar Tree, open 9 am – 9 pm
  • DSW, which only closes on Christmas Day and not on any other holidays
  • Home Depot, which usually has a Columbus Day sale although there’s been no 2020 sale announcement, yet
  • Kohl’s, open regular store hours
  • Lowe’s, which only closes on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day, will be open on Columbus Day
  • Macy’s, which only closes on Christmas, and therefore will be open on Columbus Day
  • Marshalls, which is typically open 10 am -9 pm
  • Mattress Firm, open regular hours
  • Pottery Barn, which should be open 11 am – 6 pm
  • Staples, usually open 8 am – 9 pm but varies by location
  • TJ Maxx; like many other retailers, they only close on Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas
  • Target, which is typically open from 8 am – 10 pm but may vary by location on Columbus Day

These stores, and other retail stores, will usually maintain their usual Monday store hours. Occasionally, though, these stores will have limited hours. During the retail changes that have taken place during COVID-19, it’s best not to assume.

Other Types of Stores Open on Columbus Day

If you’re interested in retail shopping on Columbus Day, then you should be happy to know that stores are likely open. While you’re out, you may want to get all of your shopping and errands done. Therefore, you’ll want to know which other types of businesses are open. Other than government offices, most things are open. For example:

  • Almost all grocery stores are open on Columbus Day. Independent grocers are, too, although this can vary.
  • Drug stores including Walgreens and CVS are open. Their pharmacies are usually open as well, but call ahead if you want to be sure.
  • Restaurants will most likely be open on Columbus Day. For example, Chipotle hours will be normal.
  • Gas stations are open on Columbus Day.

These stores generally stay open regular Monday hours on Columbus Day. However, you may find them adopting a Sunday or holiday schedule. If you’re uncertain, call in advance.

Give the gift of savings! Learn more

Read More:

If you enjoy reading our blog posts and would like to try your hand at blogging, we have good news for you; you can do exactly that on Saving Advice. Just click here to get started. If you want to be able to customize your blog on your own domain and need hosting service, we recommend trying BlueHost. They offer powerful hosting services for $3.95/month!

Is The Post Office Open on Columbus Day 2020?

By 1 Comment

post office open columbus day
Columbus Day falls on Monday, Oct. 12 this year. Even though many people may not know what Columbus Day is all about, they’ll have the day off and enjoy a three-day weekend. However, some of your favorite stores and other businesses may be closed. This may leave you wondering, “Is the post office open Columbus Day?”


Is the Post Office Open Columbus Day?

No. The post office will be closed on Columbus Day. Because Columbus Day is a federal holiday, post offices will be closed on Monday, Oct. 12. Physical USPS locations will be closed. There will also be no mail delivery.

All USPS employees will have the day off. So, if you need to interact with someone at USPS, you won’t be able to do so on Monday. However, some services will still be available.

You’ll still be able to use the self-service options at your local post offices, such as buying stamps and sending letters or small packages. Some locations may have a self-service system for printing postage in the lobby as well. You will also be able to access your personal P.O. box.

These services are generally available to customers at USPS 24/7. If you are wondering what services, if any, will be available at your local post office, you may want to give them a call and verify what will be available on Monday.


Get a $10 Costco Shop Card

Is the Post Office Open Columbus Day Weekend?

Although many of you will have a three-day weekend, that isn’t the case for USPS workers. Mail will still run on Saturday and, depending on your local P.O.’s regular hours, they will be open on Saturday, Oct. 10 as well. So, if your post office is usually open, it will be open this Saturday and closed on Sunday, as usual.

Keep in mind, there are three more federal holidays in which the post office will be closed this year. These holidays will also impact the post office’s regular schedule:

  • Veterans’ Day: Wednesday, November 11, 2020
  • Thanksgiving Day: Thursday, November 26, 2020
  • Christmas Day: Friday, December 25, 2020

If you have any questions about your local post office holiday hours or the services that will be available to you, give them a call. The customer service number is 1-800-275-8777.

Give the gift of savings! Learn more

Photo: jelm6

Read More:

If you enjoy reading our blog posts and would like to try your hand at blogging, we have good news for you; you can do exactly that on Saving Advice. Just click here to get started. If you want to be able to customize your blog on your own domain and need hosting service, we recommend trying BlueHost. They offer powerful hosting services for $3.95/month!

What’s Open and What’s Closed on Columbus Day 2019

By Leave a Comment

open and closed on columbus day

Columbus Day is approaching quickly, and many people are looking forward to a day off from work. Whether you plan to spend the day relaxing, are heading out of town, or want to get in some shopping, knowing what is open and closed on Columbus Day is helpful. Not everything is open for the holiday, which lands on Monday, Oct. 14, 2019. If you want to make sure that you don’t accidentally waste time by heading to a destination that isn’t open on Columbus Day, here’s a look at which businesses, agencies, and organizations will open or close their doors that Monday.

Retail Stores

In the vast majority of cases, retail stores are open on Columbus Day. Major chains typically maintain their usual Monday operating hours, and many hold sales to entice shoppers into heading to their locations. Plus, leftover summer goods, some back-to-school items, and other seasonal products might have made their way to the clearance racks.

Get a $10 Costco Shop Card

Here is a list of just some of the retailers that are open on Columbus Day:

  • Bed, Bath & Beyond
  • Best Buy
  • BJs Wholesale Club
  • Burlington
  • Costco
  • Dollar Tree
  • DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse
  • Half Price Books
  • Home Depot
  • JCPenney
  • Kmart
  • Lowe’s
  • Macy’s
  • Old Navy
  • Petco
  • Sam’s Club
  • Sears
  • Target
  • Walmart

It’s important to understand that small business retailers might not be open on Monday, Oct. 14. A “mom and pop” store can set its own schedule, so they may choose to shut their door for this federal holiday. If you plan to head to a small business, consider calling ahead to confirm it will be open.

Grocery Stores

Grocery stores are typically open on holidays, including Columbus Day. Essentially, every major chain opens its doors on most holidays, though some may have limited hours.

However, independent grocery stores may or may not be open. In many cases, it’s wise to call ahead to confirm whether your preferred destination is open or if they are using an alternative holiday operating schedule.

Drug Stores and Pharmacies

Chain drug stores such as CVS, Rite Aid, and Walgreens are usually open on Columbus Day. But some locations may operate on holiday schedules, reducing the total number of hours that they are open. Additionally, the pharmacy counter might close for the holiday, so you may want to confirm it is available if you need to pick up a prescription.

Independent pharmacies might choose to close for Columbus Day, though they also may not. Contact your independent pharmacy in advance to confirm it is open before making the trip to ensure you don’t waste time.

Restaurants

Chain restaurants are commonly open on Columbus Day. However, it’s possible that some may use holiday hours instead of their normal operating hours. Independent restaurants may or may not be open, so you might want to call ahead before going.

Gas Stations and Convenience Stores

Chain gas stations are typically open on Columbus Day, including their convenience stores. In rare cases, a chain convenience store might reduce holiday hours. Independent gas stations and their convenience stores might close for the holiday. However, any place that uses pay-at-the-pump will still accept debit or credit cards for fuel purchases even if there isn’t an employee available, so getting gas shouldn’t be an issue.

U.S. Stock Markets

The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and NASDAQ are open on Columbus Day. However, the SIMFA bond market is closed.

Banks and Credit Unions

Financial institutions, such as banks and credit unions, are mainly closed on Columbus Day. Branch tellers typically aren’t available, and you might not be able to get support from a live person on the phone either.

Some TD Bank and other bank locations do open, so you might be able to complete transactions if your bank branch chooses to open its doors. However, it’s best to call ahead and confirm before heading out the door.

Even if your bank or credit union closes on Columbus Day, you can still head to ATMs outside of the secured part of the location. Plus, you can handle many banking tasks online. Just keep in mind that any ATM or online deposits or transfers might not formally start processing until the next business day at the earliest.

Public Libraries

Public libraries are typically closed on Columbus Day. They often follow either the federal or state government holiday schedules, so many are not open. However, there are exceptions, so you might want to call and see if yours is open on the holiday if heading to the library sounds like a good idea for Monday.

K-12 Schools, Colleges, and Universities

Schools may or may not be open on Columbus Day. Depending on where you live, closing on Columbus Day might not be universal. Make sure to contact your schools in advance to see if class will be in session on the holiday.

Garbage Services

Garbage services may or may not run on Columbus Day. Some service providers don’t operate on federal holidays while others do. Contact your garbage service in advance to see if your pickup day is affected or if other services, such as landfills, are open.

National Parks

National Park locations are open on Columbus Day.

Federal Government

Aside from public security and safety agencies, the federal government closes on Columbus Day.

State and Local Government

State and local government organizations are mainly closed on Columbus Day, though there are some exceptions. For example, in Washington State, state government offices open on the holiday. Additionally, public safety agencies are also operational, though certain visitor-oriented services might not be available.

Mail and Delivery Services

The post office is closed on Columbus Day. There is no mail delivery, and you can’t get help from employees inside the post office. However, self-service post office kiosks and post office boxes located in parts of the building that aren’t secured are still accessible.

UPS is open on Columbus Day. Any service usually available on a Monday is operational.

FedEx is also operating on Columbus Day. However, FedEx Express and FedEx SmartPost have modified service.

When in Doubt, Call to Confirm

If you have any doubts about whether a location is open, it’s always best to call in advance. That way, you can confirm the schedule before you head that direction, ensuring you don’t waste time.

 

Do you know of anything else that closes on Columbus Day? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

Give the gift of savings! Learn more

Read More:

 

If you enjoy reading our blog posts and would like to try your hand at blogging, we have good news for you; you can do exactly that on Saving Advice. Just click here to get started.