MW How does the Fourth of July holiday affect markets? Do stock and bond trading close early on July 3? What about FedEx, UPS and mail delivery? Or Costco?

By Charles Passy

Independence Day comes with many closures - although it may be a good time to hit the stores.

Happy birthday, America!

Friday marks the 249th anniversary of the adoption of the Declaration of Independence - and the Fourth of July holiday has become one filled with fireworks, musical celebrations and other flag-waving opportunities.

Never mind that July 2 is the actual date the U.S. declared its independence from Great Britain - it was the final wording of the declaration that was approved on July 4.

As in years past, the holiday brings with it plenty of closures. Here's what you should know.

See: Fourth of July gas prices may be the lowest in years. Will they stay this cheap all summer?

Is the stock market closed on the Fourth of July?

Yes, U.S. financial markets, including the New York Stock Exchange, Nasdaq and bond markets, will be closed. And heading into the long holiday weekend, these markets will close early on Thursday as well. The New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq will close at 1 p.m. Eastern time on July 3, while bond markets will close at 2 p.m. Eastern.

Will banks be closed on the Fourth of July?

Yes, you should expect banks to be closed on Friday. Federal Reserve Banks and their branches are observing the Fourth, and most commercial banks follow the Federal Reserve's holiday schedule.

If you need cash, you still have the option of using an ATM, naturally. And you still may be able to transfer money or use other services through your bank's app.

Is the post office open and delivering mail on the Fourth of July?

The U.S. Postal Service will not deliver mail on Friday, and post offices will be closed.

Some postal services may be available online, however, such as ordering stamps and other mail supplies, printing shipping labels or scheduling package pickups for after the holiday. You'll just need a USPS.com account.

Are FedEx and UPS making deliveries on the Fourth of July?

FedEx $(FDX)$ will not be operating on Friday, except for its Custom Critical shipments; FedEx Office stores will have modified hours on the Fourth. FedEx also notes its stores will operate on a modified basis on Thursday, July 3.

UPS $(UPS)$ will not offer service on Friday, save for its Express Critical shipments. UPS Store locations may be closed.

Are government offices open on the Fourth of July?

Since the Fourth of July is a federal holiday, all nonessential federal government offices are closed (and the same generally applies to state government offices, including DMV locations).

Are schools open on the Fourth of July?

Many U.S. schools are on summer recess. But as far as summer classes or summertime terms go, schools tend to follow federal holiday schedules, so they are also probably closed. Check with your school or school district to be sure.

What about stores and restaurants?

Many retailers and restaurants are open. In fact, it's a good time for discounts. Popular items often on sale for the holiday include patio furniture, appliances, mattresses, swimwear and summer apparel.

But some places won't be operating on Friday. For example, Costco locations will be closed $(COST)$. Rival Sam's Club will be open $(WMT)$ (but with reduced hours). Therefore, it pays to check with the merchant or restaurant before you head out.

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-Charles Passy

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July 02, 2025 07:47 ET (11:47 GMT)

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