Introduction
Get ready for the biggest weekend of the autumn season! After the end-of-summer celebrations of Labor Day, Americans eagerly look forward to the spooky season.
In 2026, the calendar lines up perfectly for trick-or-treaters and partygoers alike. In this guide, we confirm the exact date for Halloween 2026, federal holiday status, and what you need to know about the weekend schedule.
When is Halloween 2026?
Halloween is celebrated every year on October 31st.
- Halloween 2026: Saturday, October 31, 2026
The “Saturday Advantage”: Because Halloween falls on a Saturday in 2026, it is going to be a massive event. Parents won’t have to rush home from work to take their kids trick-or-treating, and adult Halloween parties can run late into the night without anyone worrying about waking up for work the next morning!
Is Halloween a Federal Holiday?
NO. Despite its massive popularity, Halloween is a cultural observance, not a US Federal Holiday.
- Government Offices & Banks: Standard weekend closures apply since it is a Saturday.
- Mail Delivery: The USPS will deliver standard mail and packages on Saturday, October 31st.
- Schools: Because it is a weekend, schools will likely hold their costume parades and fall festivals on Friday, October 30th.
For a full list of official days off, check our complete US Holidays 2026 Calendar.
Is the Stock Market Open?
CLOSED. Because Halloween 2026 falls on a Saturday, the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and Nasdaq will be closed for their normal weekend pause. Trading will resume on Monday, November 2nd.
Shopping: What is Open?
Halloween is the second-largest commercial holiday in the United States, right behind Christmas.
- Retail Stores: Target, Walmart, and specialty pop-up stores like Spirit Halloween will be fully open and incredibly busy. Expect standard Saturday operating hours.
- Grocery Stores: Open and stocked with last-minute candy!
- When to buy: Because the holiday falls on a weekend, do not wait until the last minute. Costumes and popular candy varieties will likely sell out by Wednesday, October 28th.
Conclusion
Circle Saturday, October 31, 2026, on your calendar! A Saturday Halloween is rare and makes the celebrations much more relaxed and enjoyable for everyone. Start planning your costumes early!