Most major retailers will keep their doors open this Friday as Americans prepare for Independence Day celebrations, though shoppers face a mixed landscape of closures among financial institutions and select businesses.
With July 4th falling on a Friday this year, retailers are capitalizing on the extended weekend by maintaining regular operating hours at most locations, providing last-minute shopping opportunities for holiday gatherings across the country.
Target, Walmart, CVS, and most grocery chains including Publix, Kroger, and Safeway will operate under normal hours on July 4th12. Home improvement stores Home Depot and Lowe's are also staying open, though some locations may close earlier than usual32.
According to Parade, Walmart stores and Walmart Supercenters will maintain their regular hours, though specific opening times vary by location1. Kroger and its family of supermarkets, including Ralphs, Dillons, and Harris Teeter, will follow the same pattern1.
Pharmacy services within these retailers present a more complex picture. CVS locations are expected to maintain regular hours, but pharmacy operations may vary by store12. H-E-B pharmacies will operate reduced hours from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.2
Costco stands out as the major retailer closing completely for the holiday12. Sam's Club will remain open but will close at 6 p.m., two hours earlier than usual, with Plus members gaining early access starting at 8 a.m.13.
Trader Joe's and Aldi will operate with shortened schedules, closing at 5 p.m. and varying hours respectively14. According to FinanceBuzz, Trader Joe's specifically noted the 5 p.m. closure time across all locations1.
Banks and government offices will observe the federal holiday with complete closures56. The Federal Reserve System holiday schedule confirms all bank branches will be closed Friday6. Digital banking services and ATMs remain accessible, though some transactions may not process until the next business day5.
The New York Stock Exchange and NASDAQ will be closed Friday, with early closure at 1 p.m. Thursday1. This creates a four-day market break when combined with the weekend.
For pharmacy needs, customers should call ahead to confirm availability, as hours vary significantly even within open retailers23. Pet stores Petco and PetSmart will maintain limited hours for last-minute pet supply needs4.
The retail landscape reflects the tension between capitalizing on holiday shopping and respecting traditional closures, with most businesses choosing accessibility over observance.
