Easter Sunday is a significant holiday for many, celebrated on April 20, 2025, and while it’s not a federal holiday, it’s widely observed across the United States. Families gather for festive meals, and many take the opportunity to shop for last-minute items. However, not all businesses will be open, so it’s essential to plan ahead.
According to the National Retail Federation, Americans are expected to spend a staggering $23.6 billion on Easter celebrations this year. With such substantial spending, shoppers may wonder which stores will be available for their needs on this holiday.
In Prince Edward Island, Canada, many businesses that were closed on Good Friday and Easter Sunday will reopen on Monday, April 21, 2025. Most restaurants are expected to be open, but it’s advisable to call ahead to confirm availability. For example, while Sobeys, Co-Op, and Foodland stores will be closed on Easter Sunday, they will resume regular hours on Monday. Similarly, Atlantic Superstores will also be closed on Easter Sunday but will reopen on Monday.
On the other hand, Murphy's Pharmacies will remain open during regular hours on both Easter Sunday and Monday. The P.E.I. Liquor Control Commission stores will close on Easter Sunday but will be open the following day. Cannabis stores in P.E.I. will also observe the same hours, closing on Easter Sunday and resuming regular business hours on Monday.
For those looking to shop at malls, the Confederation Court Mall will be closed on Easter Sunday, but the Shoppers Drug Mart within the mall will be open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Both the mall and the drug store will operate on regular hours on Monday. Royalty Crossing Mall and County Fair Mall in Summerside will follow a similar pattern, being closed on Easter Sunday but open on Monday.
Island Waste Management will collect garbage as usual on Monday, and Walmart will also be closed on Easter Sunday but will reopen on Monday. Public libraries in P.E.I. will be closed on Easter Sunday and will reopen on Monday if that day is part of their normal schedule. However, Canada Post will not deliver or pick up mail on Monday.
Meanwhile, in the U.S., the grocery landscape on Easter Sunday looks varied. Major retailers such as Walmart, Kroger, Food Lion, Wegmans, and Trader Joe's (with the exception of one store in Portland, Maine) will be operating during regular hours. However, several retailers will close their doors for the day, including Target, Aldi, Lowe’s, and Best Buy, along with warehouse clubs like Costco and Sam's Club.
For those dining out, most major restaurant chains, including McDonald's, Taco Bell, and Wendy's, will be open on Easter Sunday, although hours may vary by location. Sit-down restaurants like Cracker Barrel, Olive Garden, and Golden Corral will also welcome guests during their regular hours. However, chains like Applebee's, IHOP, and Panera Bread may have adjusted schedules, so it’s wise to check in advance.
In contrast, some popular fast-food spots, including Zaxby’s, Chipotle, CAVA, Raising Cane’s, and In-N-Out, will remain closed for the holiday. Most banks will be closed on Easter Sunday, which is typical since many do not operate on Sundays. However, online and mobile banking services will still be available.
The New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq will trade on Monday as usual, but postal services will not be available on Easter Sunday. The U.S. Postal Service offices will be closed, and there will be no regular mail delivery, although Express Critical services will be operational. Most FedEx services will also be unavailable on Easter Sunday, though FedEx offices will operate on modified hours.
As families prepare for Easter gatherings, the mix of open and closed businesses can be tricky. Many retailers, including Target and others, are closing to allow their employees to spend time with family. This holiday, while not federally recognized, is treated with the same respect by many companies, highlighting the importance of family time.
For those hoping to complete their Easter preparations, it’s crucial to double-check the hours of your local stores. While some major retailers will be open, others will not, and knowing which ones to visit can save time and frustration.
As Easter Sunday approaches, shoppers are encouraged to plan ahead, ensuring they have everything they need for their celebrations. Whether it’s picking up groceries, dining out, or gathering with family, knowing what’s open can make all the difference.
Looking ahead, the next federal holiday is Memorial Day, which falls on Monday, May 26, 2025. On this day, Americans can expect federal offices, banks, and many retail chains to close in honor of military members who died in service. Until then, enjoy the Easter festivities, and don’t forget to confirm the hours of your favorite stores!
