New York: The fireworks might not start until the evening, but America’s most festive day kicks off early—and if you’re like most people, you’re probably wondering what’s open on the 4th of July 2025. Need to make a last-minute Target run? Craving a Starbucks iced coffee before heading to the beach? Not everything shuts down just because it’s Independence Day.
Unlike holidays like Christmas or Thanksgiving, July 4th doesn’t mean a full nationwide pause. In fact, many of the places you rely on—like pharmacies, gas stations, and big-box stores—will still be operating, even if with limited hours. That said, holiday schedules can be confusing and unpredictable, especially when each franchise or city follows its own rules.
So we did the legwork for you. Here’s a full breakdown of what’s actually open on July 4th, so you can plan your errands, meals, and outings without hitting a “Closed” sign. From groceries and restaurants to banks and movie theatres, here’s your go-to guide.
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Grocery Stores Open on the 4th of July
Planning a BBQ or forgot the burger buns? You’re in luck.
- Walmart – Open during regular business hours.
- Target – Open, but many locations close early.
- Kroger, Safeway, Albertsons, Publix – Open with reduced holiday hours.
- Trader Joe’s & Whole Foods – Open, but often close by 5 PM or 6 PM.
Plan ahead—early morning runs are best for fresh produce and uncrowded aisles.
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Coffee Shops & Fast Food Chains That Stay Open
Need your caffeine fix or a quick bite? Most chains are open.
- Starbucks & Dunkin’ – Open, but some locations may have shorter hours.
- McDonald’s, Taco Bell, Wendy’s, KFC – Fully operational.
- Chick-fil-A – Open if the holiday falls on a weekday.
- Subway, Chipotle, Panera Bread – Most locations open; hours vary.
Expect long lines after fireworks—many people skip cooking on July 4th.
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Retail Stores and Shopping Malls That Are Open
Retail therapy doesn’t stop for fireworks.
- Home Depot, Lowe’s, Best Buy – Open with reduced hours.
- TJ Maxx, Marshalls, Ross, Ulta – Open, but local hours vary.
- Apple Store, Sephora – Open inside most malls.
- Shopping malls – Open with modified hours; individual stores may differ.
Fourth of July sales are a real thing—look out for markdowns on grills, electronics, and summer wear.
Pharmacies and Drugstores
Emergency meds or sunscreen refill? You’re covered.
- CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid – Open, including 24-hour locations.
- Independent/local pharmacies – Some remain closed.
- Pharmacy counters – May have reduced service hours.
Call ahead if you’re picking up prescriptions or specialty items.
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Are Banks Open on July 4th?
Nope—here’s what to know.
- Banks (Chase, Bank of America, Wells Fargo) – Closed.
- ATMs – Available 24/7.
- Online & mobile banking – Fully functional.
Avoid doing anything requiring a live teller; resume normal service on July 5th.
Mail Delivery: USPS, UPS, and FedEx
- Expect delays.
- USPS – No mail delivery or pickups.
- UPS & FedEx – No regular ground delivery. Urgent services may run.
Don’t expect any online orders to arrive on the 4th unless it’s marked as overnight or express.
Public Transport and Ride Services
Getting around? Here’s what to expect.
- Buses & trains – Run on holiday/Sunday schedules in most metro areas.
- Uber, Lyft, local cabs – Fully operational, but expect surge pricing.
- Gas stations – Open 24/7 in most places.
Check local apps for real-time traffic and schedule updates—especially if heading to fireworks shows.
Entertainment, Parks & Beaches
Most fun spots are open—and packed.
- Beaches, parks, and boardwalks – Open and likely crowded by noon.
- Movie theaters – Open all day with holiday releases.
- Zoos, amusement parks, aquariums – Open with special July 4th hours or events.
- Public pools & splash pads – Often require advance booking or early entry.
If you’re planning to catch fireworks from a public space, arrive early and pack essentials like water, sunscreen, and blankets.
