As Easter Sunday approaches on April 5, 2026, families across the United States are preparing for a day filled with tradition, celebration, and—let’s be honest—last-minute runs to the grocery store. Whether you’re hunting for chocolate eggs, prepping a festive meal, or simply realizing you forgot the whipped cream, knowing which stores are open can make or break your holiday plans.
Easter, a cornerstone of the Christian calendar, commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ and follows the reflective 40-day period of Lent. The date itself is a “moveable feast,” shifting each year based on the lunar calendar, according to the History Channel. In 2026, Easter lands on April 5, and while not a federal holiday, it’s one of the few days when even the most reliable retailers tweak their schedules—or close altogether.
This year, the landscape of open and closed stores is a patchwork of tradition, policy, and practical considerations. According to USA TODAY and Delaware News Journal, Walmart, the nation’s retail giant, will keep its doors open during regular business hours. However, shoppers are advised to check their local Walmart’s schedule, as hours may differ from store to store. For those in Delaware, locations from New Castle to Rehoboth Beach will be operating as usual, ensuring that forgotten groceries or last-minute gifts are just a quick trip away.
Trader Joe’s, a favorite for specialty snacks and unique holiday treats, will also be open on Easter Sunday, maintaining its regular hours. Customers can visit either of its Delaware locations in Christiana or Brandywine Hundred, though, as always, it’s wise to confirm with your local store before heading out.
ShopRite stores, another staple for many families, will be open from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., though some locations may adjust their hours. ACME, Wegmans, Food Lion, Giant Food, Safeway, Harris Teeter, and Lidl are all slated to be open as well, but with the caveat that hours may vary by location. For example, Lidl typically operates from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Whole Foods will welcome customers from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Easter Sunday. As Hindustan Times notes, “Retail giants, including Walmart, Target, and Trader Joe’s, are expected to keep their stores open on Easter Sunday, albeit with reduced hours in some locations.”
If you’re a fan of warehouse shopping, though, you’re out of luck. Both Costco and Sam’s Club will be closed on Easter Sunday, continuing their tradition of giving employees the day off to spend with family. This policy, as reported by Hindustan Times, is long-standing: “Warehouse chains like Costco and Sam’s Club will remain closed for the holiday, continuing their long-standing policy of observing major national holidays.” BJ’s Wholesale Club, however, breaks from the pack, opening most locations from 8 a.m. until 6 p.m., though shoppers should verify local hours before making the trip.
Other popular retailers have mixed policies. Target, for instance, will be closed on Easter Sunday, a decision echoed by T.J. Maxx and Best Buy, according to USA TODAY and Delaware News Journal. Publix and Aldi will also be closed, so those hoping for a quick stop at these stores will need to plan ahead. The closure of Aldi on Easter Sunday is consistent across all locations, and Publix, too, maintains its tradition of closing for the holiday.
Pharmacies and specialty stores offer a bit more flexibility. Walgreens will be open for regular business hours, though most of its pharmacies will be closed for the day. CVS stores will generally be open, but again, pharmacy counters are expected to close. Ulta Beauty, for those in need of a last-minute beauty fix, will operate most locations from 12 to 5 p.m., though hours can vary. IKEA will also be open, but stores in Illinois, for example, will close early at 6 p.m.
Starbucks, a lifeline for many caffeine devotees, will generally be open on Easter Sunday, offering a familiar spot for a holiday pick-me-up. Meanwhile, those hoping to pop into Best Buy or T.J. Maxx will find the doors closed, so electronics and discounted home goods will have to wait another day.
For those living in Delaware, the list of open stores is extensive, covering nearly every major grocery chain. ShopRite, ACME, Wegmans, Food Lion, Giant Food, Trader Joe’s, Safeway, Harris Teeter, Lidl, and Whole Foods all plan to serve customers on Easter Sunday, though shoppers should double-check local hours as some locations may adjust schedules for the holiday. The only major exceptions are Costco, Sam’s Club, and Aldi, all of which will be closed.
On the national level, the trend is similar. Walmart, Trader Joe’s, Target (with some exceptions), BJ’s Wholesale Club, Walgreens, CVS, Whole Foods, and Starbucks will largely remain open, though with varying hours and some location-specific closures. Costco, Sam’s Club, Aldi, Publix, T.J. Maxx, and Best Buy will be closed, giving their employees a rare day off during a busy spring season.
It’s worth noting that while Easter is not a federal holiday, and businesses are not required to close, many retailers choose to do so out of respect for the tradition and to allow employees to spend time with loved ones. As Hindustan Times highlights, “These companies have traditionally closed on Easter to allow employees to spend time with their families.”
For shoppers, the key takeaway is to plan ahead. With so many stores adjusting their hours—or closing entirely—it pays to check online or call ahead before making the drive. Websites for Walmart, Trader Joe’s, Ulta, BJ’s, Walgreens, and others provide up-to-date information on local hours, helping to avoid any holiday surprises.
Easter Sunday in 2026 promises to be a day of celebration, reflection, and, for many, a bit of last-minute shopping. With most major grocers and pharmacies open, but some big-box and warehouse stores closed, a little preparation will ensure that the holiday runs smoothly—whether you’re hosting a feast, filling Easter baskets, or simply enjoying the springtime spirit.
As families gather and communities celebrate, the blend of open and closed doors reflects both the enduring significance of Easter and the practical realities of modern life. For those venturing out on April 5, a quick check of store hours could make all the difference between a stress-free holiday and a scramble for supplies.