Spring is in the air, which means it is almost time for egg hunts, family brunches, and pastel colors! Easter Sunday 2026 is one of the most widely celebrated spring holidays, but it can also be one of the trickiest days for last-minute shoppers.
Because many major national retailers actually completely shut their doors for the holiday, knowing exactly what is open and closed is critical. Here is your ultimate guide to Easter 2026.
When is Easter Sunday in 2026?
This year, Easter falls on Sunday, April 5, 2026.
The date of Easter changes every single year because it is a “movable feast” tied to the lunar calendar. It is always celebrated on the first Sunday following the first full moon that occurs on or after the spring equinox. In 2026, it lands perfectly in the first week of April, making it a fantastic time for spring weather across most of the United States.
Is Easter Sunday a Federal Holiday?
In the United States, Easter Sunday is NOT a federal holiday.
However, because the holiday always falls on a Sunday, it naturally acts like one. Government offices, the DMV, public schools, and major banks are already closed for the weekend. The USPS will not deliver mail, and the stock market will be closed for the weekend as usual.
What Stores are Closed on Easter Sunday 2026?
This is where you need to pay attention! While most holidays (like Memorial Day or the 4th of July) feature massive retail sales, Easter is one of the few days a year where many major retailers actually shut down to give their employees the day off.
If you need last-minute eggs, ham, or candy, do not go to these stores on April 5th, because they will be CLOSED:
- Target: Closed chain-wide.
- Costco: Closed chain-wide.
- Publix, Aldi, & H-E-B: Most locations will be completely closed.
- Lowe’s: Closed chain-wide.
What Stores are Open on Easter?
If you are in a pinch on Easter morning, you do have a few reliable options. Walmart famously remains open on Easter Sunday under normal operating hours. Pharmacies and convenience stores like CVS, Walgreens, and 7-Eleven will also be open, though their pharmacy counters might have reduced hours.
Plan the Entire Holiday Weekend
Easter Sunday is the grand finale of a long, historic religious weekend. For many Americans, the long weekend actually begins two days earlier.
If you want to know if the stock market is open on Friday or if you get the day off work, be sure to check out our complete guide to [Good Friday 2026] to plan your entire weekend!