What are the D.C. Metro Modified Service Dates? Holiday Schedule and Weather Condition Updates

Washington DC Metro Train

The DC Metro holiday schedule includes modified Metrorail and Metrobus service on federal holidays, with trains and buses running on weekend timetables, reduced frequency, and adjusted operating hours.

The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) shifts from normal weekday service during holidays or severe weather, so riders should expect longer wait times and possible route changes.

MetroAlerts (to Phone and Email)

Riders should consider signing up for MetroAlerts. The alerts provide real-time updates on delays, service disruptions, station closures, and schedule changes across the Metrorail and Metrobus system. With MetroAlerts you receive notifications by email or text to plan alternative routes. MetroAlerts are available to riders upon signing up at WMATA MetroAlerts. .

Once you sign up, be sure to log-in to set your alert preferences, including the days of the week you want to receive notifications, the time periods, and the specific Metro lines and stations you would like alerts for. This helps ensure you only receive updates that are relevant to your travel plans.

MetroPulse App

MetroPulse , an alternative to MetroAlerts, is a mobile application designed to provide real-time public transit notifications and service updates. The app gathers service data and sends immediate notifications about delays, service disruptions, station closures, and schedule changes. This is another way for riders to stay informed before they even arrive at the station. It offers customizable features to allow riders select specific stations and travel times to receive targeted alerts.

If it snows, please check WMATA Bus Service or WMATA Rail Service for any schedule changes. Any updates due to weather will be posted there.

During significant snow or extreme weather, especially on above-ground sections, service may be delayed or temporarily suspended.

Metrorail

Trains run less frequently than weekday rush service and often follow a Saturday or Sunday timetable.

Metrobus

Many bus routes operate on weekend timetables, and some commuter routes may not run at all.

Metro Offices

Sales offices and customer service centers may be closed during holidays.

Metrorail Frequency

Weekday: 6–8 min rush, 12–15 min off-peak

Weekend: 12–15 min

Holiday / Weather: 15–20 min; weekend schedule; possible delays in snow or ice

Metrorail Hours

Weekday: 5:00 AM – 12:00 AM

Weekend: 7:00 AM – 12:00 AM

Holiday / Weather: Often 7:00 AM – 12:00 AM; check updates

Metrobus Frequency

Weekday: 10–15 min

Weekend: 15–30 min

Holiday / Weather: Weekend schedule; some routes may not operate

Customer Service

Weekday: Normal hours

Weekend: Reduced hours

Holiday / Weather: Closed or limited service

DC Metro Modified Holiday Schedule Months & Days

January

New Year’s Day

Martin Luther King Jr. Day

February

Presidents Day

May

Memorial Day

June

Juneteenth

July

Independence Day

September

Labor Day

October

Columbus / Indigenous Peoples’ Day

November

Veterans Day

Thanksgiving Day

Day After Thanksgiving

December

Christmas Eve

Christmas Day

New Year’s Eve

Travel Tip: Always confirm exact train frequency and first/last train times on WMATA’s official website before traveling on a holiday.

The Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) shares transit updates, service alerts, and important rider information through its official social media accounts. Riders can follow WMATA on X (Twitter), WMATA on Facebook, WMATA on Instagram, and WMATA on TikTok to stay informed about Metrorail and Metrobus service in other ways.

Stay Updated

Check Metro System Status Update and MetroPulse Dashboard for comprehensive real-time service updates.

More Metro Resources

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