Good Friday is right around the corner – bringing religious observations among Christians around the world as Easter approaches this weekend.
Because of the holiday, some banks, government offices and schools across the U.S. will also close their doors or shorten their hours.
Good Friday always falls on the Friday before Easter Sunday, which hops around dates between March 22 and April 25 each year. In 2023, Good Friday is on April 7.
In the Christian faith, Good Friday commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus. The holy day also arrives after the 40-day Lenten season, which ends on the evening of Holy Thursday.
Good Friday is not a federal holiday, and many people will be scheduled to work regular hours on Friday. But, in a handful of states, it’s recognized as a state holiday – meaning some courts and state government offices will be closed.
Here’s what you need to know about what’s open and what’s closed on Good Friday.
When is Good Friday this year? 2023 dates and a peek into the history of Holy Week.
Easter 2023:How the holiday’s date each year is determined and why some celebrate.
Banks
According to Insider, most banks follow the Federal Reserve System’s holiday schedule – which does not list Good Friday as an observed Friday. Therefore, many banks should be open on Friday, but it’s best to call your local branch to check for potential modified hours.
Mail services: USPS, FedEx, UPS
The United States Postal Service does not recognize Good Friday as a USPS holiday. Regular services should be available, but it’s best to check with your local office’s hours. FedEx and UPS will be open on Good Friday, with some modified services for FedEx Express and FedEx Freight.
Government offices and courts
Because Good Friday isn’t a federal holiday, federal courts and government buildings should operate with regular hours. But a handful of U.S. states – including New Jersey, Tennessee, Hawaii and more – recognize Good Friday as a holiday, meaning some state offices and courts may be closed or have shorter hours.
Stock market
The stock market observes Good Friday as a holiday. The Nasdaq and New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) will be closed.
National parks
Most year-round national parks should be open on Good Friday. But schedules vary for some sites, so check operating hours before planning your trip.
Schools
Good Friday school closures depends on school districts. New York City Public Schools, for example, observe Good Friday as a holiday – while others, like Chicago Public Schools, mark the week leading up to Easter Sunday as spring break this year. Check with your local district.
T collection
Some garbage and recycling collection may be delayed or moved to another day in light of the holiday weekend. Check with local providers.
Grocery stores and restaurants
Many grocery stores, including chains like Target and Walmart, and restaurants will be open on Good Friday. Check local listings and locations for potential modified hours.
What’s everyone talking about? Sign up for our trending newsletter to get the latest news of the day.
Contributing: Clare Mulroy, USA TODAY.
