Martin Luther King Jr. Day is a federal holiday that affects many businesses and daily routines across the United States each January. One question many shoppers are asking is is costco open on mlk day, especially those planning bulk purchases, grocery runs, or holiday weekend errands. Costco’s official holiday schedule confirms that stores will remain open on this day, allowing members to plan their shopping trips without interruption.
This guide will break down Costco’s hours on MLK Day, how the holiday affects different services, tips for visiting warehouses, and strategies to make the most of your shopping trip on Monday, January 19, 2026.
Costco’s Holiday Operating Schedule for 2026
Costco observes only a limited number of holidays when stores close, such as New Year’s Day, Easter, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. Martin Luther King Jr. Day is not a closure day for Costco in 2026. This means that warehouse clubs across the United States will remain open during standard business hours. The company treats MLK Day as a normal weekday, offering shoppers full access to groceries, electronics, home goods, and other merchandise.
Confirmed Costco Hours on MLK Day
Most Costco locations operate on regular Monday hours on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, generally opening around 10:00 a.m. and closing around 8:30 p.m. Local variations may apply depending on regional policies, so checking your specific warehouse is recommended. These hours apply to both standard members and Gold Star or Business members visiting in person. Costco pharmacies, optical centers, and gas stations may have slightly adjusted hours, so members should confirm availability if they plan to use these services.
Why Costco Remains Open on MLK Day
Unlike government offices, banks, or the postal service, Costco considers Martin Luther King Jr. Day a normal business day. By remaining open, Costco provides convenience to members who have the day off and want to complete errands or shop in bulk. The company only closes on major holidays to give employees time with their families. This approach ensures both members and staff benefit from predictable schedules and access to products.
How MLK Day Affects Different Departments
The main warehouse areas at Costco remain fully operational on MLK Day. Shoppers can access grocery aisles, electronics, appliances, and daily essentials as usual. The pharmacy and optical departments may operate on slightly adjusted schedules depending on location, so verifying hours is recommended. Costco gas stations usually follow the warehouse’s operating schedule, offering members fuel at competitive prices during standard hours.
What Other Stores Are Doing on MLK Day
While Costco remains open, many federal services such as banks, courts, and USPS locations close for the holiday. Other retailers, grocery chains, and big-box stores generally maintain normal hours or slight modifications. MLK Day is considered a shopping-friendly holiday because people are off work and stores like Costco provide access for bulk shopping, groceries, and seasonal items without closures.
Tips for Shopping at Costco on MLK Day
Visiting early in the day is recommended to avoid crowds and get the best selection of fresh produce, meats, and popular items. Checking local warehouse hours before visiting can prevent surprises with departments like pharmacy or optical. Shoppers should also anticipate busier aisles, checkout lines, and parking lots due to the holiday. Planning for slightly longer trip times and bringing a list of essentials can make the visit more efficient. Taking advantage of Costco’s bulk pricing and seasonal items is ideal for families preparing for the weekend or holiday gatherings.
Understanding Costco’s Holiday Policy
Costco closes only seven major holidays annually, prioritizing employee rest while keeping other days open for member convenience. Martin Luther King Jr. Day is not on the closure list, allowing normal operations. This policy provides clarity and consistency for members planning their shopping trips without interruptions.
Costco Compared to Other Wholesale Clubs
Other wholesale retailers, such as Sam’s Club or BJ’s Wholesale, often follow a similar approach and remain open on MLK Day. Knowing this allows shoppers to compare options if they want to choose the most convenient location or find specific products during the holiday weekend.
Special Services and Seasonal Inventory
Costco frequently rotates its inventory based on member demand and seasonal availability. On MLK Day, seasonal items, bulk groceries, electronics, and home essentials remain accessible. High-demand or seasonal products may sell out quickly, so arriving early or asking staff about restock timing is recommended for shoppers seeking specific items.
Gas Prices and Warehouse Visits
Costco gas stations typically operate during warehouse hours, making MLK Day a convenient time to fill up at competitive prices while shopping. This dual-purpose visit allows members to save time and money by combining fuel and bulk shopping in one trip.
Final Answer on Costco’s MLK Day Status
For anyone asking is costco open on mlk day, the answer is yes. Costco warehouses across the United States will be open on Monday, January 19, 2026, during standard business hours, generally from 10:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. Shoppers can plan their errands, grocery runs, and bulk purchases without worrying about holiday closures.
Do you plan to shop at Costco on MLK Day, or do you prefer avoiding the holiday crowds? Share your tips and experiences for holiday shopping in the comments.