Good Friday 2024: A Guide to What's Open and Closed

Good Friday, a significant Christian observance preceding Easter Sunday, holds profound importance in the faith as it commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. While it is not designated as a federal holiday across the United States, Good Friday is recognized as a state holiday in twelve states.

This recognition results in various closures, including government offices and some local businesses, in these particular regions. Good Friday falls within the Holy Week, a sacred period in Christianity that leads up to Easter. Christians believe that Good Friday marks the day of Jesus Christ's crucifixion, with his resurrection occurring on Easter Sunday. 

Fasting and solemn reflection are common practices among Catholics and adherents of other Christian denominations on this day. The date of Good Friday varies annually, typically falling on the Friday before Easter Sunday, which itself shifts between March and April each year. In 2024, Good Friday is observed on March 29th.

As for banking services, most banks operate as usual on Good Friday, given its non-federal holiday status. However, in the twelve states where Good Friday holds state holiday recognition—Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Hawaii, Indiana, Kentucky, Louisiana, New Jersey, North Carolina, North Dakota, Tennessee, and Texas—some banks may choose to close.

Mail delivery remains unaffected on Good Friday, as it is not recognized as a federal holiday. Both UPS and FedEx maintain regular operations on this day, according to their respective websites.

While federal offices remain open on Good Friday, government agencies in the aforementioned twelve states may close in observance of the state holiday. Financial markets, including the Nasdaq and New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), are closed on Good Friday, with no trading activity taking place.

As for retail establishments, major retailers and grocery stores typically maintain normal operating hours on Good Friday. However, some local businesses may choose to close in observance of the holiday.