Costco warehouses across the United States will operate on Presidents Day, Monday, February 16, 2026, unlike several federal holidays when the retailer closes. Most locations follow standard or slightly adjusted hours, with Executive Members gaining early access starting at 9 a.m. local time and general members entering from 10 a.m., typically closing around 8:30 p.m. This policy reflects Costco’s commitment to serving members on non-major holidays while limiting closures to only seven key dates annually. Shoppers should verify local warehouse details, as minor variations occur by region.
Costco’s Presidents Day Operations in 2026
Presidents Day, observed on the third Monday in February, serves as a federal holiday honoring the legacies of George Washington and Abraham Lincoln, along with all U.S. presidents. In 2026, it lands on February 16, prompting closures at banks, the U.S. Postal Service, federal offices, and many schools. Retail operations vary widely, but Costco maintains consistent availability for its members.
Costco limits full closures to just seven holidays each year in its U.S. warehouses: New Year’s Day, Easter Sunday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. Presidents Day does not appear on this restricted list, ensuring warehouses stay accessible nationwide.
This approach aligns with Costco’s member-focused strategy, prioritizing convenience for bulk shoppers who rely on the warehouse model for everyday essentials, groceries, electronics, and seasonal items. While some competitors adjust hours or close entirely on federal holidays, Costco’s decision keeps supply chains moving and supports working families who may use the long weekend for errands.
Typical Hours on Presidents Day
Hours can differ slightly by location due to regional factors, local regulations, or individual warehouse management. However, patterns from recent years and current confirmations show strong consistency.
Executive Members (those with the higher-tier membership offering additional perks like reward certificates): Early shopping from 9:00 a.m. local time.
Gold Star and Business Members : Standard entry from 10:00 a.m. local time.
Closing Time : Most warehouses wrap up at 8:30 p.m. local time, mirroring regular weekday schedules.
Gas stations attached to Costco warehouses often follow similar hours, though fuel availability may see higher demand during holiday weekends. Pharmacy departments within warehouses typically operate during core hours but may have reduced staffing—members are advised to plan prescription pickups accordingly.
To confirm exact times for a specific store, use Costco’s official warehouse locator tool online. Enter a zip code or city to view the listed holiday-adjusted hours, including any notes on gas or tire center operations.
Why Costco Stays Open When Others Close
Costco’s holiday policy emphasizes minimal disruption. The retailer views Presidents Day as a non-essential closure date, unlike major national observances tied to family gatherings or religious significance. This keeps revenue steady and reinforces loyalty among its 130+ million cardholders who value reliability.
In contrast to federal entities or banks that shut down completely, Costco’s model caters to practical needs: restocking household supplies, preparing for upcoming seasonal shifts, or capitalizing on any promotional activity. While no widespread Presidents Day-specific sales are guaranteed annually, the warehouse often features ongoing deals in departments like electronics, home goods, and fresh produce.
Comparison of Costco Holiday Policies
For context, here’s how Presidents Day fits into Costco’s broader holiday framework:
| Holiday | Costco U.S. Warehouse Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | Closed | Full shutdown |
| Easter Sunday | Closed | Religious observance |
| Memorial Day | Closed | Major federal holiday |
| Independence Day | Closed | National celebration |
| Labor Day | Closed | End-of-summer federal holiday |
| Thanksgiving Day | Closed | Family-focused |
| Christmas Day | Closed | Major holiday |
| Presidents Day | Open (regular/adjusted hours) | Member access maintained |
| Martin Luther King Jr. Day | Open | Similar to Presidents Day |
| Veterans Day | Open | Operations continue |
This limited closure list helps differentiate Costco from retailers that observe more federal holidays, making it a go-to option when other stores limit access.
Practical Tips for Presidents Day Shopping at Costco
Expect crowds, especially mid-morning through early afternoon, as families leverage the day off. Arrive early if possible—Executive Members benefit most from the 9 a.m. window to avoid peak lines at popular sections like food courts, bakery, or high-demand items.
Fuel up early if using Costco gas, as lines can form during holiday periods. Bring your membership card (physical or digital) and any coupons from the monthly booklet, as standard policies apply.
For online orders, Costco.com and same-day delivery services through partners often remain available, though warehouse pickup may see delays due to in-store volume.
Final Notes for Members
Costco’s decision to open on Presidents Day 2026 underscores its dedication to uninterrupted service on non-core holidays. While federal offices and mail services pause, warehouses welcome members for essential and discretionary purchases alike. Always double-check your local store via the official locator for any last-minute adjustments based on regional circumstances.
Disclaimer: This is a news report based on current retailer policies and holiday observances. Always verify directly with your local Costco warehouse for the most accurate information.