This Monday, September 1st, the United States commemorates Labor Day, a federal holiday established in 1894 to recognize the contributions of workers during the Industrial Revolution. Florida, along with the rest of the nation, will see changes in daily routines, affecting businesses, transportation, and public services. Labor Day is also regarded as the unofficial end of summer, a time for barbecues, family trips, and major sales. Here's a rundown of what's open and what's closed in Florida during this holiday.
Stores and Supermarkets: Open for Business
Floridians will find most supermarkets and large retailers open for last-minute shopping. Here are the general hours:
- Walmart: Open regular hours (varies by location).
- Target: Open from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.; pharmacies have reduced hours (10 a.m.–1:30 p.m. and 2 p.m.–6 p.m. at many locations).
- Publix: Open, though it's advised to check individual store hours.
- Sam’s Club: Open, but closing early: 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. (Plus members from 8 a.m., others from 10 a.m.).
- BJ’s Wholesale Club: Open regular hours.
- Aldi: Most locations will close early, around 6 p.m.
- Trader Joe’s: Open regular hours (8 a.m.–9 p.m., with local variations).
- Whole Foods Market: Open, subject to local hours.
Costco will be a notable exception in retail as its stores will remain closed.
Department and Retail Stores
Major chains offering clothing, home goods, and sports equipment will be open, though some will operate on reduced hours:
- Open regular hours: Kohl’s, Macy’s, Nordstrom, Ross, TJ Maxx, Marshalls, Dick’s Sporting Goods, DSW, HomeGoods, Party City, Petco, Staples.
- Reduced hours:
- Hobby Lobby: 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.
- Office Depot/Office Max: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Petsmart: 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Dollar store chains such as Dollar General, Family Dollar, and Dollar Tree will operate on regular schedules.
Florida Malls and Outlets
The state's malls and outlets will be open, providing shopping and leisure options for the long weekend. Among those confirmed to operate normally are:
- Broward Mall (Plantation)
- Tanger Palm Beach (West Palm Beach)
- The Florida Mall (Orlando)
- International Plaza and Bay Street (Tampa)
- Tampa Premium Outlets (Lutz)
- Tyrone Square Mall (St. Petersburg–Clearwater)
- University Town Center (Sarasota)
In South Florida, complexes like Sawgrass Mills, Dadeland Mall, The Falls, and Aventura Mall will also be open during regular hours.
Restaurants and Convenience Stores
Fast food restaurants and convenience stores will largely remain operational on Labor Day, ensuring those in need of a quick meal or last-minute essentials can find what they need.
Pharmacies: Adjusted Hours
Major pharmacy chains will keep their doors open, but internal pharmacy hours may vary:
- CVS/Navarro: Stores open regular hours. Many pharmacies from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., but it’s best to check specific locations.
- Walgreens: Stores open as usual, but many pharmacies will either be closed or have limited hours.
- Publix Pharmacy: Hours will vary by location; many will have reduced hours.
Public Transportation and Services in South Florida
In the Miami–Fort Lauderdale metro area:
- Public Transportation:
- Metrobus, Metromover, and Metrorail (Miami-Dade): Operating on a Sunday schedule.
- Broward County Transit: Sunday schedule.
- Tri-Rail: Weekend/holiday schedule.
- Garbage Collection:
- Miami and Miami-Dade: Normal service; recycling centers open.
- Fort Lauderdale: Regular collection; Broward County landfill closed.
Closed Services and Offices
Due to the federal nature of the holiday, several institutions will not be open:
- Government Offices: All state, local, and federal offices will be closed, including courts, public schools, and libraries.
- Banks: No teller services, although ATMs will remain operational as usual.
- Postal Service (USPS): Closed nationwide, with no regular mail deliveries. Only Priority Mail Express will be delivered.
- UPS and FedEx: No pickups or deliveries. Some locations may open with modified hours, so checking local offices is recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions about Labor Day in Florida
What is the significance of Labor Day in the United States?
Labor Day is a federal holiday in the United States, established in 1894, to honor the contributions of workers to the country's economic strength and prosperity.
Are grocery stores open on Labor Day in Florida?
Yes, most grocery stores in Florida, including Walmart, Target, and Publix, will be open on Labor Day, although some may have reduced hours.
Will public transportation be available in South Florida on Labor Day?
Yes, public transportation services like Metrobus, Metromover, and Metrorail in Miami-Dade will operate on a Sunday schedule, as will Broward County Transit and Tri-Rail.