Are Dealerships Open on Veterans Day?
Overview
Veterans Day, originally known as Armistice Day, is a federal holiday in the United States that is observed on November 11th every year. It is a day to honor and recognize the sacrifices and bravery of American military personnel, past and present. As the holiday falls on a weekday, it is natural to wonder whether car dealerships will be open or closed. In this article, we will provide an overview of what you can expect from dealerships on Veterans Day.
Are Dealerships Open on Veterans Day?
The answer to this question varies depending on the specific dealership and the location. While some dealerships may choose to observe Veterans Day and be closed, others may remain open to honor the occasion.
Chain Dealerships vs. Independent Dealerships
Chain dealerships, such as large franchisees like Toyota or Ford, typically follow a standard operating schedule. According to their policies, most chain dealerships remain open on Veterans Day, with extended hours to accommodate customers. This is usually done to show appreciation for the sacrifices made by veterans and their families.
Independent Dealerships
On the other hand, independent dealerships, which are locally owned and operated, may have different policies. These dealerships may choose to be closed on Veterans Day or operate with limited hours to allow their employees to take part in holiday activities and spend time with their loved ones.
Holidays with Different Hours
While Veterans Day is a federal holiday, some dealerships may choose to have alternative hours to accommodate the holiday. These alternative hours may include:
• Early closing hours
• Shortened hours
• Operating hours on Saturday or Sunday instead of the regular day
Before Visiting a Dealership
If you’re planning to visit a dealership on Veterans Day, it’s a good idea to check the dealership’s website or contact them directly to confirm their operating hours. Some dealerships may have updated their hours on their social media channels, which is always a good idea to check.
What to Expect at a Dealership
If you do visit a dealership on Veterans Day, you can expect the following:
• Sales promotions: Many dealerships will offer special deals, discounts, or promotions to attract customers on the holiday.
• Test drive offers: Some dealerships might offer extended test drive periods or special test drive events to make the experience more enjoyable.
• Honoring veterans: Many dealerships will display patriotic flags, decorations, and maybe even offer special discounts for military personnel.
• Family-friendly activities: Some dealerships might organize family-friendly activities, such as a "Touch-a-Truck" event, a vehicle display, or a hot dog cookout.
Table: Dealership Open Hours on Veterans Day
| Dealership Type | Typical Hours | Alternative Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Chain Dealerships | 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM | 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (some may stay open later) |
| Independent Dealerships | Variable | Closed, early closing, or Saturday hours |
| Luxury Dealerships | 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM | 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM (some may stay open later) |
Conclusion
Dealerships may have different operating hours on Veterans Day, with chain dealerships generally more likely to be open than independent dealerships. To ensure a smooth experience, it’s essential to check the dealership’s hours before visiting. Even if a dealership is closed, many will offer extended hours or special deals in the following days to celebrate the holiday. By taking the time to plan ahead, you can enjoy the holiday while still fulfilling your needs at the dealership.
