The Fourth of July in 2026 falls on a Saturday, marking the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence. Since federal holidays observed on weekends are typically moved to the nearest weekday, July 3 (Friday) will be treated as the official holiday for most federal employees and services.
Core Facts
- Federal Holiday Observance: July 3 is observed as a federal holiday, with non-essential government offices closed. Federal employees will receive holiday pay and leave for this day.
- Service Disruptions: Key services like banks, stock markets, and retail stores will operate under modified schedules, while others remain open.
Detailed Breakdown
Government and Financial Services
- Postal Service: USPS will deliver mail as usual on July 3, with post offices open. Regular mail delivery is suspended on July 4.
- Banks: Most banks, including Chase, Bank of America, and Wells Fargo, will remain open on July 3 but may close early or adjust hours. All banks will be closed on July 4.
- Stock Markets: The NYSE and Nasdaq will be closed on July 3 in observance of the holiday.
Retail and Grocery Stores
- Major Retailers: Walmart, Target, and most grocery chains will operate under normal hours on both July 3 and 4. Exceptions include Costco, which will be closed on July 4.
- Modified Hours: Some stores like Best Buy, IKEA, and Trader Joe’s will have reduced hours on July 4.
State-Specific Variations
- Rhode Island: State offices will observe the holiday on Monday, July 6, while federal offices follow the July 3 observance.
- California: Most state offices will remain open on July 3, with DMV offices operating normally but the Employment Development Department closed.
Private Sector Adjustments
- Parcel Services: UPS and FedEx will operate normally on July 3 but suspend service on July 4.
- Restaurants: Most chains will remain open on July 4, though some, like Raising Cane’s, will close.
Key Dates and Exceptions
- USPS Holidays: USPS observes 11 holidays in 2026, including July 4, with no mail delivery on those days.
- Costco Closures: Costco closes for seven holidays annually, including July 4.