Introduction
As spring arrives, millions of Americans prepare for the Easter weekend. However, the Friday immediately preceding Easter Sunday—known as Good Friday—is notorious for causing massive scheduling confusion.
Is it a federal holiday? Is the stock market open? Do you get the day off? In this guide, we clarify the exact date for Good Friday 2026 and break down exactly what is open and what is closed so you can plan your weekend properly.
When is Good Friday 2026?
The date of Good Friday changes every year because it is tied to the lunar cycle that determines Easter.
- Good Friday 2026: Friday, April 3, 2026
Is Good Friday a Federal Holiday?
NO. Good Friday is a significant religious observance, but it is not a US Federal Holiday.
Because it is not a federal holiday, standard weekday rules apply for government services:
- Government Offices: Federal offices, the DMV, and city halls will be OPEN. (Note: A few individual states recognize it as a state holiday and may close local offices, but federal buildings remain open).
- Mail Delivery: The USPS will deliver standard mail and packages normally. Post offices will be fully open.
To see which days actually give federal workers a day off, check our complete US Holidays 2026 Calendar.
The Big Confusion: Banks vs. The Stock Market
This is why Good Friday is the most confusing day on the financial calendar!
- The Stock Market (CLOSED): The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and Nasdaq traditionally close for Good Friday. There will be no normal trading on April 3rd. Trading resumes on Monday, April 6th.
- Banks (OPEN): Because Good Friday is not a Federal Reserve holiday, most major commercial banks (like Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo) will be fully open for normal business hours.
Schools and Shopping
- Schools: Many public school districts and private schools align their “Spring Break” with this week, or at least give students the Friday off to create a four-day Easter weekend.
- Retail & Grocery Stores: Target, Walmart, and most grocery chains will be operating on normal Friday hours. (Keep in mind, many of these same stores will close entirely two days later on Easter Sunday!)
Conclusion
Mark Friday, April 3, 2026, on your calendar. If you are an investor, enjoy a day away from the markets! For everyone else, expect a relatively normal Friday schedule as you prepare for the Easter weekend.