As Easter weekend approaches, many Americans are preparing to observe the holy week, a significant time in the Christian calendar. This year, Good Friday falls on April 18, 2025, a day when Christians commemorate the crucifixion and death of Jesus Christ. Traditionally, Good Friday is marked by church services, fasting, and prayer, embodying a day of sorrow and penance for followers of Christ.
However, many may wonder: are Good Friday and Easter federal holidays in the United States? Despite its religious importance, the answer is no. Good Friday and Easter Sunday are not recognized as federal holidays, which means that federal employees and the general public should not expect closures or paid time off for these days.
Federal holidays in the U.S. are typically secular in nature and connected to significant moments in the nation’s history. The federal government recognizes 11 holidays, including Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Thanksgiving. This distinction underscores the fact that while Good Friday is observed across the country, it does not carry the same weight as federally recognized holidays.
So what does this mean for various institutions? For instance, most bank branches will remain open on Good Friday. Major banks such as Capital One, Wells Fargo, PNC, Truist, CitiBank, and JPMorgan Chase confirmed to USA TODAY that their branches will be open on April 18, 2025.
In contrast, the stock market will be closed on Good Friday. According to its calendar, both the New York Stock Exchange and the Nasdaq close for this holy day each year. This closure is notable for investors and those engaged in trading activities, as it affects market operations.
As for postal services, the U.S. Postal Service (USPS) will operate on its regular schedule, ensuring that mail will be delivered as usual on Good Friday. Similarly, UPS and FedEx will also maintain normal hours, providing continuity for shipping and delivery services.
Interestingly, while Good Friday is not a federal holiday, it is recognized as a public holiday in several states. Twelve states, including Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Hawaii, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, North Carolina, North Dakota, New Jersey, Tennessee, and Texas, officially observe Good Friday as a state holiday. Consequently, public schools and colleges in these states are generally closed on this day.
In Florida, for example, while most schools are closed for Good Friday, some districts are still in session. Six counties are celebrating spring break this week, which includes Good Friday as part of their holiday. These counties are Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Lafayette, Levy, and Suwannee, with spring break continuing through April 18, 2025.
However, students in 13 counties will be in school on Good Friday. This includes districts such as Alachua, Baker, and Brevard, which will have classes as usual. Parents and students should check school calendars closely, as the holiday status can vary significantly from one district to another.
As the day approaches, many worshippers and families are preparing for Good Friday observances, particularly as COVID-19 restrictions ease. Churches across the nation will hold services to commemorate the crucifixion of Jesus, often incorporating traditional rituals and practices that have been part of Christian observance for centuries.
For many Christians, Good Friday is a time for reflection and remembrance. It is a day to contemplate the sacrifice of Jesus and to engage in acts of devotion and penance. This solemn observance is part of the larger Holy Week, which culminates in Easter Sunday, the celebration of Jesus's resurrection.
Despite the lack of federal recognition, Good Friday remains an important day for millions of Americans. The absence of federal holiday status does not diminish its significance in the hearts of those who observe it. As such, various businesses and institutions adapt their operations accordingly, balancing the needs of their customers with respect for religious observance.
In summary, while Good Friday is not a federal holiday in the United States, it is recognized by several states and observed by many Christians across the country. Banks will remain open, the stock market will be closed, and the USPS will deliver mail as usual. As families and individuals prepare for this day of reflection, the significance of Good Friday continues to resonate deeply within the Christian community.
Looking ahead, the next holiday on the calendar is Memorial Day, which falls on Monday, May 26, 2025. As we move through the year, it’s essential to stay informed about holiday schedules and observances, especially for those who may be affected by varying state and federal designations.
