The term "what is closed Patriots' Day" functions as a noun phrase, identifying the category of entities that cease operations. Patriots' Day is a state-level holiday, primarily in Massachusetts and Maine, and is not a federal holiday. Consequently, closures are limited to state and local government services, while federal agencies and most private businesses remain operational. The main point is that closures are determined by state, not federal, jurisdiction.
On Patriots' Day, the following entities are typically closed in the observing states: state, county, and municipal government offices (e.g., Registry of Motor Vehicles, town halls); public school systems (K-12) and many state colleges and universities; public libraries; and state courts. Conversely, entities that remain open include federal government offices like the U.S. Postal Service, federal courts, and Social Security offices. Most private sector businesses, including retail stores, restaurants, corporate offices, and banks, also remain open, as they generally follow the federal holiday schedule. However, public transportation often operates on a modified or Saturday schedule to accommodate parades and athletic events like the Boston Marathon.
In practice, the distinction between a state and federal holiday is the critical factor for determining closures. Individuals in celebrating states should verify the hours of specific local businesses, as some may alter their schedules due to proximity to parade routes or other civic events. For all other states where Patriots' Day is not an official holiday, it is a normal business day with no closures or service interruptions.
