As Easter Sunday approaches on April 20, 2025, many Americans are preparing for the holiday, which is celebrated by billions of Christians worldwide. While Easter is not a federal holiday, it is widely observed across the United States, prompting a mix of store openings and closures that could affect last-minute shoppers.
According to the National Retail Federation, Americans are expected to spend around $23.6 billion on Easter celebrations this year. This significant expenditure reflects the holiday's importance, as families gather to celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ following the 40-day period of Lent.
For those looking to stock up on Easter essentials, grocery stores like Walmart, Kroger, Food Lion, Wegmans, and Trader Joe's will be open during their regular hours. Walmart, for instance, will operate from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., providing ample opportunity for shoppers to grab last-minute items like chocolate bunnies and ham. However, it's advisable to double-check local store hours as they can vary by location.
ShopRite stores will also be open on Easter, from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m., while most ACME locations will welcome customers with varying hours. Other grocery chains, such as Harris Teeter and Lidl, will maintain normal business hours as well. Customers can expect to find Albertsons, Safeway, Jewel-Osco, and Vons open, catering to those in need of groceries.
However, not all stores will be open. Major retailers like Target, Aldi, Lowe's, and Best Buy will close their doors for the holiday. Warehouse clubs such as Costco and Sam's Club will also remain closed, forcing shoppers to wait until Monday, April 21, to resume their bulk shopping.
When it comes to dining out, many fast-food chains like McDonald's, Taco Bell, and Wendy's will be open on Easter Sunday, although hours may differ by location. Sit-down restaurants, including Cracker Barrel, Olive Garden, and Golden Corral, will operate during their regular hours, making them viable options for families looking to celebrate with a meal out. However, some popular chains like Applebee's, IHOP, and Panera Bread may have adjusted hours, so it's best to call ahead or check online.
In contrast, several well-known restaurants will close for the day, including Zaxby's, Chipotle, CAVA, Raising Cane's, and In-N-Out. Shoppers looking to enjoy a meal at these establishments will need to plan accordingly.
As for banking services, 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 for those needing to manage their finances. The New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq will resume trading on Monday, April 21, ensuring that the markets remain unaffected by the holiday.
The U.S. Postal Service will not deliver regular mail on Easter Sunday, maintaining its standard Sunday operations. However, Express Critical services will be available for urgent needs. Similarly, while most FedEx services will be unavailable, FedEx offices will operate on modified hours, and Custom Critical services will be accessible.
With the holiday's significance, many people are reminded of the diversity in religious affiliation across the U.S. A 2023 Gallup Poll indicated that 68% of Americans identify as Christian, with 33% identifying as Protestant, 22% as Catholic, and 13% as other or simply preferring the Christian label. This widespread observance of Easter reflects the holiday's importance in American culture.
As families prepare for Easter festivities, it's crucial to plan ahead regarding shopping and dining options. Whether it's picking up groceries, enjoying a meal out, or managing finances, being informed about what's open and closed can help ensure a smooth holiday experience.
In summary, while many grocery stores and restaurants will remain open on Easter Sunday, several major retailers and dining establishments will close their doors. Shoppers are encouraged to check local hours to avoid disappointment and make the most of this special day.
