July 4th isn’t just a holiday—it’s a tradition. A day when the sky lights up, the grills fire up, and families across America take a break to celebrate freedom. But while everyone’s thinking about fireworks and food, there’s one thing people forget every year: what’s actually open and what’s closed. That quick grocery run? The bank deposit you meant to do? The package you thought would arrive? It might all be on pause. With so many events and closures happening today, planning ahead matters more than ever. And this year, there are a few changes and surprises most people didn’t expect.
Who’s Closed on July 4, 2025—and Why It Matters
Today, banks, the stock market, post offices, and government offices are all closed. It’s a federal holiday, so big services pause for the day. That means no in‑person banking, no mail pick‑ups, and no trading until Monday, July 7. You can still use online banking and ATMs but be cautioned for processing delays. This is significant because even a simple errand like depositing a check or putting together a package, can still be in the queue and may be delayed. Knowing what’s closed helps avoid surprises, especially if people planned a last‑minute trip or BBQ.
- No FedEx or postal deliveries (except urgent services).
- DMV and local government halls are shut, so no permits or licenses today.
- Stock exchanges stayed closed after an early end yesterday—markets resume Monday.
Even though it’s a holiday, people still need to plan. You can’t rush to the bank today, but that’s okay—most of us embrace July 4 as a pause from the busy workweek.
Which Stores, Groceries & Restaurants Are Open — And Some Surprises
Most national retail chains are open today, there is variance in those hours. For a reference point:
- Walmart, Target, CVS, Walgreens, Best Buy: open, and mostly normal hours.
- Costco: closed - a rarity among the warehouse clubs.
- Aldi: closed early 4 PM.
- Trader Joe's: closed at 5 PM.
- Whole Foods, and grocery chains (Kroger, Publix): open, with some others closing early.
- Sam's Club: open but limited - Plus members get early access until 6 PM.
Restaurants and fast-food chains like McDonald's, Taco Bell, Starbucks, Chick-fil-A are doing business as usual. But smaller, local sit-down places? That could mean closing or being understaffed - entrances won't be blocked, but it's slow going today.
Surprising twist no one talks about:
- There are a lot of open stores that are running special sale events - people are purchasing today because it's a long weekend, patio gear, pool toys, grills, etc.
- Macy's and Nordstrom and other shopping beacons are fielding crowds - Fireworks closures had some big parking lots and stores closing entrances temporarily, for everyone's security - there may be cones outside Walmart or Target, that's why.
- Gas stations that include a convenience store operating 24 hours - can be helpful for last-minute purchases.
Remember, the most important thing - it's better consult local hours before making your way out. And if you plan on grocery shopping after the parade, it's good to get there early; by late afternoon, places start winding down.
Events & Public Services: Parades, Transit, Protests—and Passport Help
In the mood to celebrate? It is not just about fireworks tonight. Here what’s going on:
- There are parades and concerts around the country. In Washington, D.C. the National Independence Day Parade kicks off at 11:45 AM on Constitution Ave, and concludes with the Capitol Fourth concert at 8 PM. Fireworks start by 9:09 PM near the Lincoln Memorial.
- Public transit will run on weekend service levels. Some cities have extra busses/trains late tonight to help people get home (especially New York City, Washington, D.C. and San Francisco) after the big events.
- In something new for this year several cities (like San Francisco) hosted peace rallies under the theme “Free America Weekend” giving some mindful notes along with the celebration. These are peaceful gatherings at city centers or public parks.
- Embassy giggle: the British Embassy in DC issued a cheeky tweet:
"Enjoy your big day! Honestly..."
A light-hearted poke paired with a selfie post of the Beckhams waving, giving us a chuckle while we playfully note the neighbourly history among nations.
Quick Community Reminders
- Fireworks zones mean street closures—be sure to check local announcements so you don't get jammed up going to or from the grocery store after 4 PM.
- Parks and beaches: Most are open, but many fill up quickly. If you are going early, bring your chair and definitely wear sunscreen.
- Immigration ceremonies: Many USCIS will welcome some new citizens today in places like Mount Vernon and Fort Monroe—even though it is not a celebration, it is as great representation of celebrating freedom.
What Does This All Mean For Your Day
This July 4 blend of closures, celebrations, and surprises means that your experience will differ from most holiday experiences:
- No banking services or mail solidifies you won't have partner business opening as usual today.
- Stores will most likely be open, but in some instances closed early or not opening at all.
- You might experience some festival-type parades or concerts downtown—but by far, you may face time delays in carrying out your shopping plans.
- There is palpable collective sense of unity and community in the air—some of this is tied to citizenship ceremonies and peaceful rallies.
- Embassy humor reminds us to celebrate, without directly taking too much capacity to take life too seriously.
Are you planning? In detail? Just confirm local hours, are you going to the store too, and if so, figure out how to work around nearby street closures. If you are showing up later, watch for an alternate transit service—this could really help you get home!
