Black Friday Stock Market Hours: What You Need to Know

What’s Open and Closed on Thanksgiving and Black Friday? Here’s What to Expect

Thanksgiving is here, a holiday steeped in tradition and history. Officially recognized as a federal holiday since 1870, its origins date back even further. President Abraham Lincoln declared a “day of Thanksgiving” in 1863, and President George Washington issued the first proclamation for a “day of public thanksgiving and prayer” on Nov. 26, 1789.

In recent decades, Thanksgiving has also become the prelude to Black Friday, the shopping event that draws millions into stores and online for major deals. Wondering what’s open or closed during these two busy days? Here’s your guide:

Are the Stock Markets Open?

• Thanksgiving: U.S. stock and bond markets are closed.
• Black Friday: Markets will close early, with stocks halting at 1 p.m. Eastern and bonds at 2 p.m.

Will Mail Be Delivered? What About FedEx and UPS?

• USPS: No mail delivery on Thanksgiving, but service resumes on Black Friday.
• FedEx: Closed on Thanksgiving except for “Custom Critical” deliveries; limited services available on Black Friday.
• UPS: No deliveries on Thanksgiving except for “Express Critical” items; regular pickup and delivery services resume.

Are Banks Open?

• Thanksgiving: Banks are closed, but ATMs and online banking remain accessible.
• Black Friday: Most banks are open, though some branches may have reduced hours.

Are Government Offices Open?

• Thanksgiving: As a federal holiday, all non-essential government offices—both federal and state—are closed.
• Black Friday: While not a federal holiday, it’s recognized as a state holiday in more than 20 states. Check local office schedules for details.

Do Schools Close?

• Thanksgiving: Schools are closed nationwide.
• Black Friday: Most schools remain closed, though local schedules may vary.

Are Stores Open?

• Thanksgiving: Many major retailers, including Walmart and Target, will remain closed this year. However, some grocery stores, pharmacies, and dollar stores—like CVS, Family Dollar, and Whole Foods—may open with reduced hours.
• Black Friday: The traditional shopping holiday sees most stores open early, with some starting as early as 5 a.m. Check with individual retailers for exact hours.

Whether you’re enjoying a quiet Thanksgiving or gearing up for Black Friday shopping, this guide will help you plan your holiday activities.