What's Closed on the 4th of July? (Banks, Mail, Government, and Stores)

Find out what's closed on Independence Day, including banks, mail delivery, government offices, schools, and store hours.

5 min read

Independence Day is a federal holiday, which means many government offices, banks, and businesses are closed. However, not everything shuts down. Here's what's typically closed on the 4th of July and what might remain open. Find the exact date for any year using our Independence Day Date Calculator or see how many days remain until the next celebration with the Independence Day Countdown.

Federal Government Offices

All federal government offices are closed on Independence Day, including:

  • Federal agencies and departments
  • Federal courts (except emergency proceedings)
  • Post offices (USPS)
  • National parks and monuments (though some may have limited access or special events)

Most federal employees receive a paid day off. If July 4 falls on a weekend, the holiday is typically observed on the closest weekday (Friday or Monday).

Mail and Package Delivery

USPS (United States Postal Service): All post offices are closed, and regular mail delivery is suspended on Independence Day. Express Mail service may have limited availability, but regular postal service resumes the next business day.

UPS and FedEx: While these private carriers typically operate on Independence Day, delivery schedules may be modified. Many locations may have reduced hours or limited delivery services. It's best to check with your local service center for specific holiday hours.

Amazon: Amazon delivery services generally continue operating on the 4th of July, though delivery times may be extended.

Banks and Financial Institutions

Most banks are closed on Independence Day, including:

  • National banks
  • Credit unions
  • Federal Reserve banks
  • Most regional and local banks

ATMs typically remain accessible, and online banking services continue to operate. However, in-person banking services and check processing are suspended until the next business day.

If you need to deposit or cash a check, or perform other in-person banking services, plan accordingly as banks will be closed.

Stock Market

The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and NASDAQ are closed on Independence Day. Trading typically resumes the following business day. Bond markets are also closed.

Schools

Most public and private schools are closed on Independence Day, as it falls during summer break for most school districts. Some summer programs may also close or have modified schedules.

If July 4 falls on a weekday during the school year (rare but possible in some districts with year-round schedules), schools typically observe the holiday.

Stores, Restaurants, and Attractions

Many stores, restaurants, and attractions remain open on Independence Day, though hours may vary:

Retail Stores: Many major retailers remain open, often with special holiday sales. However, some smaller businesses may close or have reduced hours. It's best to call ahead or check store websites for specific holiday hours.

Restaurants: Many restaurants remain open, especially those catering to holiday celebrations. Some may offer special 4th of July menus or promotions. Fast-food chains typically operate regular hours.

Attractions: Many tourist attractions, museums, and entertainment venues remain open, though some may have special holiday hours or events. Popular destinations like theme parks, beaches, and national monuments may be especially crowded.

Grocery Stores: Most grocery stores remain open, though some may have reduced hours. Many stores stock up on barbecue supplies, hot dogs, and holiday foods in anticipation of increased demand.

Gas Stations: Most gas stations remain open 24 hours, though some may have modified hours or reduced staffing.

Other Services

Public Transportation: Most public transportation systems operate on modified holiday schedules, often with reduced service. Some systems may operate on a Sunday schedule or have additional service for major events like fireworks displays.

Hospitals and Emergency Services: Hospitals, emergency rooms, and emergency services operate 24/7, regardless of holidays.

Pharmacies: Many pharmacies remain open, though some may have reduced hours. It's best to call ahead or check online for specific holiday hours.

Planning Ahead

If you need to:

  • Visit a bank or federal office
  • Mail something via USPS
  • Access federal services
  • Attend in-person government appointments

Plan ahead, as these services will be unavailable on Independence Day. Most services resume the following business day.

FAQ

  • Are banks closed on July 4? Yes, most banks are closed on Independence Day, though ATMs remain accessible and online banking continues.

  • Is mail delivered on July 4? No, regular USPS mail delivery is suspended on Independence Day. UPS and FedEx may have modified schedules.

  • Do stores close on the 4th of July? Many stores remain open, though some may have reduced hours. It's best to check specific store hours in advance.

  • Are restaurants open on Independence Day? Yes, many restaurants remain open, often with special holiday menus or promotions.

  • Is the stock market open on July 4? No, the New York Stock Exchange and NASDAQ are closed on Independence Day.