As Easter approaches, many Americans are preparing for the holiday weekend, which this year coincides with Good Friday on April 18, 2025. While Good Friday is a significant day in the Christian calendar, commemorating the crucifixion of Jesus Christ, its status as a holiday varies across the United States. Understanding what services will be available during this time is essential for planning ahead.
Good Friday, observed on the Friday before Easter, is a day marked by Christians as one of penance and reflection. It is part of Holy Week, which also includes Palm Sunday, Holy Thursday, and culminates in Easter Sunday. Easter Sunday in 2025 falls on April 20, celebrating the resurrection of Jesus Christ after a 40-day period known as Lent.
Despite its religious significance, Good Friday is not a federal holiday in the United States. However, it is recognized as a state holiday in ten states and parts of Kentucky. In Michigan, for instance, Good Friday is observed with various traditions, yet most public and private institutions, including city and county offices, will remain open. This lack of closure means that essential services will largely operate as usual.
Most banks will be open on Good Friday, including major institutions such as Capital One, Wells Fargo, PNC, Truist, CitiBank, and JPMorgan Chase. These banks confirmed to USA TODAY that their branches would maintain regular hours on April 18. However, it is advisable for customers to check with their local branches for specific hours, as they may vary.
In terms of postal services, the United States Postal Service (USPS) has confirmed that its facilities will be open for retail transactions, and mail delivery will proceed as normal on Good Friday. This means that residents can expect their regular mail services to continue without interruption. However, it is important to note that USPS will not operate on Easter Sunday, April 20, except for Priority Mail Express deliveries.
Shipping services will also be available on Good Friday. Both FedEx and UPS have announced that their locations will be open, and pickup and delivery services will be operational. Customers can rely on these services to handle any shipping needs during the holiday weekend. However, both companies will have limited operations on Easter Sunday, with regular pickup and delivery services suspended.
In Florida, the situation regarding school closures on Good Friday varies by district. While many schools will be closed, students in six counties—Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Lafayette, Levy, and Suwannee—will enjoy a spring break that includes Good Friday. Conversely, schools in Alachua, Baker, Flagler, Holmes, Nassau, Okaloosa, Orange, Osceola, Seminole, Taylor, and Washington counties will remain open on April 18.
As Christians across the nation prepare for Good Friday, many will engage in traditional observances such as prayer, fasting, and attending church services. These practices vary by denomination, but the core purpose remains the same: to reflect on the significance of Jesus’ crucifixion.
Additionally, the date of Easter and its related holidays can change each year, as Easter is classified as a "movable feast." This year, Easter falls later in April, a rarity that is attributed to its dependence on the lunar calendar. The date of Easter is determined by the first Sunday following the first full moon after the spring equinox, which can lead to variances in the timing of related holy days.
In summary, while Good Friday is a deeply meaningful day for many Christians, its impact on public services in the U.S. is limited. Most banks, postal services, and shipping companies will operate normally, ensuring that residents can manage their banking and shipping needs without disruption. As Easter approaches, communities will come together to observe this pivotal moment in the Christian faith, reflecting on the themes of sacrifice and resurrection.
For those looking to participate in the observances of Holy Week, Good Friday serves as a reminder of the foundational beliefs of Christianity and the importance of community and faith during this time of reflection.
