Independence Day, celebrated annually on July 4th, marks a pivotal moment in American history: the adoption of the Declaration of Independence by the Second Continental Congress in 1776. This federal holiday is a time for parades, fireworks, barbecues, and reflection on the nation’s founding. As Friday, July 4th, 2025, approaches, many Americans are finalizing plans, which often includes figuring out which businesses and services will be operating. Knowing what’s open and closed is essential for smooth holiday preparations and celebrations.
While the spirit of Independence Day encourages rest and festivities, the operational status of everything from banks and government offices to grocery stores and retailers can vary significantly. This guide synthesizes the latest information to help you navigate the Fourth of July holiday, ensuring you know where you can grab last-minute supplies or if your planned errands need rescheduling.
Independence Day Overview
The historical observance of July Fourth wasn’t immediate or widespread. A spontaneous celebration occurred in Philadelphia in 1777, but regular, commonplace observations didn’t truly take hold until after the War of 1812. Congress eventually formalized the holiday much later, officially making Independence Day a federal holiday on June 28, 1870. As a federal holiday, many institutions and services observe closures, providing a day off for workers and a pause in regular operations.
Banks & Financial Markets: Understanding Closures
The Fourth of July, being a federal holiday, typically means a shutdown for major financial institutions and markets across the United States.
Major Banks & Branches
Plan ahead if you need in-person banking services. Major banks including Bank of America, Wells Fargo, PNC, Truist, Citibank, JPMorgan Chase, and Capital One will have their physical branches closed on Friday, July 4th, 2025. While branches are closed, essential digital services remain accessible.
Stock Markets
Trading on U.S. stock markets is also suspended. The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), Nasdaq, and bond markets will be closed for the entire day on the Fourth of July. Notably, bond markets often close early on the day preceding the holiday (Thursday, July 3, 2025), typically at 1 p.m.
ATMs & Digital Banking
Although physical locations are closed, you won’t be entirely without access to your funds or accounts. ATMs will remain operational for cash withdrawals and deposits. Digital banking services, including online banking portals and mobile apps, will also be available for checking balances, transferring funds, and paying bills. Capital One Cafes may remain open, offering limited services.
Government Services: Widespread Closures
As a federal holiday, government services at various levels observe closures.
Post Offices & Mail Delivery
Don’t expect mail service on Independence Day. All U.S. Post offices will be closed for retail transactions on Friday, July 4th. There will be no regular residential or business mail deliveries. While standard mail is paused, some services like USPS Priority Mail may still operate in some areas.
Federal, State, & Local Offices
Government buildings and offices at the federal, state, city, and county levels will be closed. This includes places like the U.S. Office of Personnel Management.
Courts & Schools
Courts and most public schools will also be closed in observance of the holiday.
Trash & Recycling Collection
Many communities alter their trash and recycling collection schedules for federal holidays. Collection services scheduled for Friday, July 4th, are likely to be delayed by one day, often occurring on Saturday instead. Examples include delays in some Boston neighborhoods and collection shifts in cities like Quincy and Worcester, Massachusetts, and Syracuse, New York. Always check with your specific local municipal services or private hauler for accurate information regarding delays.
Public Transportation
Public transportation schedules may also be modified. For instance, Centro, the bus service in Syracuse, New York, will operate on a Sunday/holiday schedule on July 4th. Plan your travel accordingly and check local transit authority websites for specific holiday timings.
Libraries
Many public libraries, including the Onondaga County libraries in New York, will be closed for the holiday, sometimes for more than one day.
Retail Stores: Mostly Open, Check hours
In contrast to government and financial services, most retail businesses will be open on the Fourth of July. This allows shoppers to grab last-minute items for celebrations. However, holiday hours can vary significantly by location.
Big Box & Department Stores
Many national chains will welcome shoppers. Walmart stores across the U.S. are generally expected to maintain regular business hours, typically from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. local time. Target will also be open, though hours can vary by location. The primary exception among major retailers is Costco; warehouses will be closed on July 4th, adhering to their policy of closing for most major holidays. Sam’s Club plans to be open but with potentially reduced hours, such as 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. for Plus members and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. for Club members. Department stores like JCPenney, Kohl’s, and Belk also plan to be open, often with modified hours (e.g., Kohl’s 9 a.m. – 7 p.m., JCPenney 10 a.m. – 6 p.m., Belk 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.). Other retailers like Macy’s and Nordstrom are typically open.
Grocery Stores: Stocking Up for Cookouts
Planning a barbecue or gathering? Most major grocery store chains will be open to help you stock up. This includes widespread chains like ALDI, Food Lion, Kroger family stores, Publix, Wegmans, Whole Foods, Harveys Supermarkets, Winn-Dixie, most Albertsons family stores (like Safeway and Jewel-Osco), Lidl, Harris Teeter, and Giant Eagle. However, some stores may operate on limited hours. Trader Joe’s locations will close earlier than usual, typically at 5 p.m. local time. Meijer stores are expected to be open from 6 a.m. to midnight.
Pharmacies & Drug Stores
Many national drug store chains like CVS and Walgreens will be open. However, their operating hours might be altered, and in-store pharmacies may have reduced hours or be closed entirely, except for select 24-hour locations. Always check with your specific pharmacy location.
Home Improvement & Hardware
Need something for a home project or grilling? Home Depot is expected to be open but may close early, around 8 p.m. local time. Lowe’s is generally open for regular hours. Ace Hardware stores are independently owned, so their hours will vary significantly, necessitating a call ahead.
Other Specialty Retail
A variety of other stores will be open, often with reduced hours. TJ Maxx, Marshall’s, HomeGoods, and Sierra might close early, potentially around 8 p.m. IKEA locations may close earlier, around 6 p.m. Michael’s could close around 6 p.m. Stores like REI (potentially 10 a.m. – 6 p.m.), Petco (possibly 9 a.m. – 8 p.m.), Office Depot and OfficeMax (perhaps 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.), and Tractor Supply Company (possibly 8 a.m. – 6 p.m.) are generally open but confirm local hours. Other retailers like Sephora, Gap, Old Navy, Banana Republic, Athleta, Bass Pro Shop, Cabela’s, and Burlington are typically open.
Liquor Stores
In states like Massachusetts, liquor stores are permitted to sell alcohol on July 4th. However, individual store owners can choose to close or operate on reduced hours. It’s crucial to verify local hours if you need to pick up beverages.
Fitness Centers
Many fitness centers, including chains like Planet Fitness, plan to be open but often operate on modified or limited hours.
Restaurants & Dining: Fueling Your Celebrations
Whether you’re dining out or grabbing takeout, most restaurants will be open on the Fourth of July, though hours can vary.
Fast Food Chains
Many popular fast food chains will be open. This includes major players like McDonald’s, Starbucks, Dunkin’, Chick-fil-A, Wendy’s, Burger King, Arby’s, IHOP, Waffle House, KFC, Subway, Jimmy John’s, Taco Bell, Panera Bread, Krispy Kreme, and Whataburger. However, some chains may have limited hours. Chipotle locations, for instance, are expected to close earlier, typically around 3 p.m. local time. Starbucks hours often vary significantly by location.
Casual & Sit-Down Restaurants
Most casual and sit-down restaurants are also expected to be open for Independence Day dining. This includes chains like Cracker Barrel, Golden Corral, Olive Garden, Longhorn Steakhouse, Applebee’s, Buffalo Wild Wings, Bonefish Grill, Cheesecake Factory, First Watch, Zaxbys, Bahama Breeze, The Capital Grille, TGI Fridays, and Yard House. Again, checking specific location hours is highly recommended.
Note on Hours
Given the variability, the most crucial piece of advice for any retail store or restaurant visit is to always verify the local hours for the specific location you plan to visit. Their website, app, or a quick phone call are the best resources.
Travel Trends for the Long Weekend
With the Fourth of July falling on a Friday in 2025, a significant number of Americans are taking advantage of the long weekend to travel.
Record Travel Forecast
Travel agencies like AAA are forecasting record numbers of domestic travelers for the period encompassing the holiday. An estimated 72.2 million Americans are expected to travel domestically between June 28th and July 6th. This represents an increase of 1.7 million travelers compared to the previous year and a significant 7 million more than in 2019.
Travel Tips
The vast majority of travelers, an estimated 61.6 million, are expected to travel by car. An additional 5.8 million travelers are anticipated to fly. With such heavy road traffic expected, AAA recommends taking precautions before hitting the road. A pre-trip inspection of your vehicle is highly advised to help avoid common issues like dead batteries, flat tires, or running out of gas, which could cause significant delays during peak travel times.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are banks and post offices closed on July 4th?
Banks, post offices, and the U.S. stock markets are closed on July 4th because it is recognized as a federal holiday in the United States: Independence Day. Federal holidays generally grant federal employees a day off, and many private businesses, particularly those closely tied to federal operations or traditional observance like banks, choose to close their doors as well. This pause allows employees to participate in holiday festivities and commemorates the historical significance of the date. While physical branches are closed, digital services like online banking and ATMs usually remain accessible.
How can I check the exact hours for a specific store or restaurant on July 4th?
Since holiday hours can vary significantly even within the same chain, the best way to confirm operating times for a specific location is to check directly with the business. You can typically find this information on the store or restaurant’s official website, their mobile app, or by calling the specific location directly. Many businesses will post their holiday hours on their doors or social media pages in the days leading up to July 4th. Don’t rely solely on general chain information, as local management may adjust hours.
Is it better to do my grocery shopping on July 3rd or July 4th if I need specific items?
For guaranteed availability and less stress, it’s often better to complete essential grocery shopping on July 3rd. While most grocery stores are open on July 4th, they may operate on reduced hours (like Trader Joe’s closing at 5 p.m.) and could experience higher traffic or sell out of popular holiday items like grilling supplies. Shopping the day before allows you more flexibility in hours and potentially avoids last-minute crowds, ensuring you have everything you need for your Independence Day celebration.
Planning Your Independence Day
The Fourth of July is a time for celebration, but navigating closures is part of the planning. Remember that while most retail stores, grocery stores, and restaurants will be open, checking local hours is paramount. Government offices, banks, post offices, and the stock market will be closed. With record travel expected, hitting the road requires extra preparation. By being informed about what’s open and closed, you can ensure your Independence Day is filled with festivities and free from unexpected inconveniences. Have a safe and happy Fourth of July!
