As Americans prepare to celebrate Independence Day this Friday, July 4, many are also looking to squeeze in last-minute shopping or errands. Here’s a guide to what’s open and closed on the holiday.In a June 23 announcement according to the Tampa Bay Times, Florida governor Ron DeSantis said that state offices will close on Thursday, July 3, in addition to the official July 4 holiday. This gives state employees a four-day weekend. The Florida Capitol rotunda and all state government offices will remain closed on both Thursday and Friday.
US stock market
US stock markets will remain closed on Friday for Independence Day. Both the Nasdaq and the New York Stock Exchange closed early at 1 pm on Thursday and, while the US bond market closed at 2 pm, according to the securities industry and financial markets Association.
Banks and ATMs
- All major banks, including Bank of America, Wells Fargo, PNC, Truist, Citibank, JPMorgan Chase, and Capital One, will be closed on July 4 in observance of Independence Day. However, Capital One Cafes will remain open.
- Online banking will still be accessible, though transactions will not process on the holiday. ATMs will continue to function for cash deposits and withdrawals, according to ET.
- Customers expecting paychecks are advised to confirm processing schedules with their employers.
Mail, UPS, and FedEx
- The United States Postal Service will not deliver regular mail, and post offices will be closed. Only Priority Mail Express services will operate. Online USPS tools, such as stamp ordering and pickup scheduling, remain available.
- UPS and FedEx will suspend pickup and delivery services on July 4. Some UPS Store locations may be closed, and FedEx Office hours will be modified.
Grocery and retail stores
- Most major retailers and grocery chains will remain open on July 4, although many will operate with adjusted hours.
- Walmart, Target, and Best Buy are expected to maintain their regular schedules, while Trader Joe’s and Whole Foods will close earlier than usual, typically by evening.
- Costco, however, will be closed for the holiday. Sam’s Club will be open but with modified hours, plus members can shop from 8 am to 6 pm, and Club members from 10 am to 6 pm.
- Other retailers such as CVS, Kroger, Albertsons, and Dollar General will also be open, but store hours may vary by location, so it’s advisable to check locally before heading out.
Pharmacies: CVS and Walgreens
CVS stores will remain open, though some locations may operate with reduced hours. Walgreens will also stay open under regular retail hours, but most pharmacies will be closed except for 24-hour locations and select others. Customers should verify local store hours online or by phone.
History behind July 4 celebrations
The Fourth of July marks the adoption of the declaration of Independence on July 4, 1776. The holiday became widely celebrated after the War of 1812, with events like groundbreaking ceremonies for the Erie Canal and Baltimore and Ohio Railroad aligning with the date. Congress officially declared it a federal holiday on June 28, 1870.