Is July 3 a federal holiday? What is open and closed on Friday ahead of Fourth of July

The fourth of July for 2026 falls on a Saturday, marking the 250th birthday of the United States of America. The annual holiday recognises the day in 1776 when the Second Continental Congress voted to adopt the Declaration of Independence.

The Trump administration has some big plans to celebrate the nation's big day, as do the citizens who are all excited for the fireworks, parades and other festivities.The day also serves as a national holiday, meaning government offices are closed. Since the day falls on a Saturday, it will actually be observed on a weekday. This is because when a federal holiday lands on a weekend day, the holiday is typically observed either on the Friday before or the Monday after. Since the Fourth of July is a Saturday this year, the day is in some ways on Friday. So does this make July 3, Friday a federal holiday?According to the US Government Office of Personnel Management, July 3, is observed as a federal holiday for 20226. But what will be open and closed on the day?

Will the mail be delivered?

Yes, the United States Postal Service mentioned that the post offices will remain open on Friday, July 3, with normal mail delivery.

If a holiday falls on a Saturday, for some USPS employees, the preceding Friday will be treated as a holiday for pay and leave purposes.

Are the banks open?

According to the Federal Reserve, for holidays falling on Saturday, banks will be open the preceding Friday. These include Chase, Bank of America, M&T, Santander and others. However, in observance of the Fourth of July holiday, some branches may have adjusted operating hours or close early ahead of Independence Day.

It is better to confirm local hours ahead of time.Though, banks and other financial institutions will be closed on Saturday, July 4 and won't reopen until Monday, July 6.

Is the stock market open?

No, the stock market will remain closed on Friday. According to the New York Stock Exchange, all NYSE markets will observe the Fourth of July holiday on Friday. The same remains for Nasdaq's holiday schedule. Trading will only resume from Monday, July 6 at 9:30 am ET.

Will retail stores remain open?

Yes, most retail and grocery stores are expected to be open on Friday. Stores expected to operate on normal schedules on Friday include:

Is the DMV open?

Illinois Secretary of State DMVS and other state offices are expected to be closed on July 3 in observance of the July 4 holiday. Some facilities, including the California DMV and the Massachusetts RMV will be open during normal operating hours on Friday. Others like Connecticut, will be open on July 3, but close early.

DMVs in New Jersey, Florida, Virginia and many other states will be closed on July 3.However, the office recommends checking with specific locations for their schedules.

Will FedEx deliver?

Yes, FedEx will pick up and deliver on Friday, but with modified service. In some locations, FedEx will have early on-call pickups and drop box pickups, including drop box closures. FedEx retail locations may operate with modified hours on July 3, so confirming hours ahead of visiting the local FedEx Office is advised. FedEx will not pick up or deliver on Saturday, July 4.

Other offices

Courts in Illinois are also closed on Friday. City offices will also remain closed on July 3, as cities and villages observe it as a holiday.