July 4th is more than just a day for hot dogs, beer, and booming fireworks—it’s America’s birthday, and in 2025, it’s landing on a Friday. That means we get a sweet, long weekend packed with celebration, family get-togethers, and maybe even a bit of reflection on what freedom really means. But before you start planning your parade route or setting up your grill, it’s worth knowing the backstory of this holiday, and just as importantly—what’s open and what’s not this year.
July 4: History and significance
Let’s rewind to the summer of 1776. On July 4, the Continental Congress officially adopted the Declaration of Independence, a fiery break-up letter to Britain that laid the foundation of the United States as a free nation. Technically, the decision to declare independence happened two days earlier, on July 2, but the document’s final wording was approved on the fourth—and that’s the date that stuck.
Here’s a fun bit of trivia: both John Adams and Thomas Jefferson—founding fathers and former presidents—died on July 4, 1826, exactly 50 years after the declaration was adopted. Spooky? Poetic? Either way, the Fourth has always had its place in American lore.
What’s happening in 2025?
With Independence Day falling on a Friday this year, it kicks off a long weekend—and let’s be honest, we all love a federal holiday that gifts us three full days to relax or party. That also means closures across government and major services, so if you’re planning errands or expecting a package, you might want to reschedule.
From coast to coast, Americans will celebrate with fireworks, cookouts, patriotic music, and parades—some small and sweet, others massive and star-studded. Washington, D.C., naturally goes all out. Picture this: a sunrise Constitution reading at the National Archives, a grand parade on Constitution Avenue, and a classic concert on the National Mall featuring The Beach Boys and The Temptations, all capped off with an epic 17-minute fireworks show lighting up the sky at exactly 9:09 p.m. Don’t forget your picnic blanket.
What’s closed on July 4?
The Fourth of July is a federal holiday, which means a lot of things grind to a halt—especially anything government-related.
Federal offices and courts: Closed across the board.
Post offices: All USPS retail counters will be closed. No regular residential or business mail will be delivered. Only Priority Mail Express keeps running.
Banks: Major banks like Bank of America, Wells Fargo, PNC, Truist, CitiBank, JPMorgan Chase, and Capital One will be closed. However, Capital One Cafés may remain open, according to the USA Today.
Stock markets: The NYSE and Nasdaq are closed on July 4. They’ll also close early on July 3, so plan accordingly if you’re into trading.
FedEx and UPS: No regular delivery services. Only FedEx Custom Critical and UPS Express Critical will be operating in limited capacity.
So, if you’ve got bills to pay, packages to send, or documents to file—get them done before Friday rolls around.
What’s open on July 4?
Not everything comes to a halt. In fact, some of your favorite stores and chains will still be up and running—though hours may vary, so don’t leave it to chance.
Costco: Closed for the day. Yep, even for those bulk hot dog buns.
Sam’s Club: Open but will close early.
Walmart, Target, Best Buy, Macy’s, Big Lots: Open as usual. These retail giants generally stay open, but hours might differ depending on the location.
Starbucks & Trader Joe’s: Some locations may shorten their hours or close early, so check before heading out.
Grocery stores and pharmacies: Most chains will be open but may follow holiday hours. Local shops might vary.
If you’re planning a last-minute BBQ run or need sunscreen, you should be fine—just check the hours online or call ahead.
Transit & travel
Public transport: Most cities run trains and buses on a holiday schedule, which usually means fewer trips. Still, subways, metros, and local buses will be operational.
Airports: Open, of course. In fact, they’ll likely be packed—expect delays if you’re flying for the weekend.
Gas stations: Open, and probably busy. If you’re heading out of town, fill up early.
Celebrations from Coast to Coast
Beyond the big D.C. bash, many towns and cities have their own unique ways to celebrate.
Small-town charm:
Bristol, Rhode Island: Home to America’s oldest continuous Fourth of July parade, dating all the way back to 1785. Expect flags, fife and drums, and a serious dose of patriotism.
Huron County, Michigan: Think parades, tractor pulls, petting zoos, and fireworks that light up the rural skies—not just on July 4, but extending into July 5. Towns like Port Austin and Harbor Beach go all out.
From local pie-eating contests to massive waterfront concerts, there’s something for everyone.
Tips before you head out
Before you throw on your red, white, and blue and run out the door, here are some quick tips:
Shipping delays: Hold off mailing anything important. UPS, USPS, and FedEx will all be taking a break, except for emergency services.
Cash up early: Banks are closed. ATMs will work, but online payments might process a bit slower due to back-end closures.
Plan your shopping: Need anything from Costco? Go before Friday. Need soda and burgers? Walmart’s got your back.
Book early for fireworks: Big cities will be packed. Bring lawn chairs, arrive early, and expect road closures near event areas.
Expect detours: In some cities, protests or special events may lead to street closures or rerouted transit, so plan your route in advance.
July 4, 2025, is shaping up to be a perfect combination of history, celebration, and good vibes. With the holiday falling on a Friday, many Americans will enjoy a full long weekend to travel, relax, or party with family and friends.
Whether you’re attending a mega-fireworks show in the capital, waving flags in a small-town parade, grilling on your back deck, or just enjoying the day off with a cold drink and good company—this Independence Day is all about embracing freedom in your own way.
Just don’t forget to check your mail before Friday, stock up on BBQ supplies early, and maybe raise a toast to Jefferson, Adams, and all the rest who helped make July 4 a day worth celebrating—for nearly 250 years and counting.
Happy Fourth, America.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general awareness and celebratory guidance related to U.S. Independence Day 2025. While we strive for accuracy, holiday hours and closures may vary by location and service provider. Always confirm with local businesses, banks, or government offices before making plans. This content does not substitute for official announcements or advisories. Readers are encouraged to check official websites or contact relevant authorities for the most up-to-date and location-specific information.
July 4: History and significance
Let’s rewind to the summer of 1776. On July 4, the Continental Congress officially adopted the Declaration of Independence, a fiery break-up letter to Britain that laid the foundation of the United States as a free nation. Technically, the decision to declare independence happened two days earlier, on July 2, but the document’s final wording was approved on the fourth—and that’s the date that stuck.
Here’s a fun bit of trivia: both John Adams and Thomas Jefferson—founding fathers and former presidents—died on July 4, 1826, exactly 50 years after the declaration was adopted. Spooky? Poetic? Either way, the Fourth has always had its place in American lore.
What’s happening in 2025?
With Independence Day falling on a Friday this year, it kicks off a long weekend—and let’s be honest, we all love a federal holiday that gifts us three full days to relax or party. That also means closures across government and major services, so if you’re planning errands or expecting a package, you might want to reschedule.
From coast to coast, Americans will celebrate with fireworks, cookouts, patriotic music, and parades—some small and sweet, others massive and star-studded. Washington, D.C., naturally goes all out. Picture this: a sunrise Constitution reading at the National Archives, a grand parade on Constitution Avenue, and a classic concert on the National Mall featuring The Beach Boys and The Temptations, all capped off with an epic 17-minute fireworks show lighting up the sky at exactly 9:09 p.m. Don’t forget your picnic blanket.
What’s closed on July 4?
The Fourth of July is a federal holiday, which means a lot of things grind to a halt—especially anything government-related.
Federal offices and courts: Closed across the board.
Post offices: All USPS retail counters will be closed. No regular residential or business mail will be delivered. Only Priority Mail Express keeps running.
Banks: Major banks like Bank of America, Wells Fargo, PNC, Truist, CitiBank, JPMorgan Chase, and Capital One will be closed. However, Capital One Cafés may remain open, according to the USA Today.
Stock markets: The NYSE and Nasdaq are closed on July 4. They’ll also close early on July 3, so plan accordingly if you’re into trading.
FedEx and UPS: No regular delivery services. Only FedEx Custom Critical and UPS Express Critical will be operating in limited capacity.
So, if you’ve got bills to pay, packages to send, or documents to file—get them done before Friday rolls around.
What’s open on July 4?
Not everything comes to a halt. In fact, some of your favorite stores and chains will still be up and running—though hours may vary, so don’t leave it to chance.
Costco: Closed for the day. Yep, even for those bulk hot dog buns.
Sam’s Club: Open but will close early.
Walmart, Target, Best Buy, Macy’s, Big Lots: Open as usual. These retail giants generally stay open, but hours might differ depending on the location.
Starbucks & Trader Joe’s: Some locations may shorten their hours or close early, so check before heading out.
Grocery stores and pharmacies: Most chains will be open but may follow holiday hours. Local shops might vary.
If you’re planning a last-minute BBQ run or need sunscreen, you should be fine—just check the hours online or call ahead.
Transit & travel
Public transport: Most cities run trains and buses on a holiday schedule, which usually means fewer trips. Still, subways, metros, and local buses will be operational.
Airports: Open, of course. In fact, they’ll likely be packed—expect delays if you’re flying for the weekend.
Gas stations: Open, and probably busy. If you’re heading out of town, fill up early.
Celebrations from Coast to Coast
Beyond the big D.C. bash, many towns and cities have their own unique ways to celebrate.
Small-town charm:
Bristol, Rhode Island: Home to America’s oldest continuous Fourth of July parade, dating all the way back to 1785. Expect flags, fife and drums, and a serious dose of patriotism.
Huron County, Michigan: Think parades, tractor pulls, petting zoos, and fireworks that light up the rural skies—not just on July 4, but extending into July 5. Towns like Port Austin and Harbor Beach go all out.
From local pie-eating contests to massive waterfront concerts, there’s something for everyone.
Tips before you head out
Before you throw on your red, white, and blue and run out the door, here are some quick tips:
Shipping delays: Hold off mailing anything important. UPS, USPS, and FedEx will all be taking a break, except for emergency services.
Cash up early: Banks are closed. ATMs will work, but online payments might process a bit slower due to back-end closures.
Plan your shopping: Need anything from Costco? Go before Friday. Need soda and burgers? Walmart’s got your back.
Book early for fireworks: Big cities will be packed. Bring lawn chairs, arrive early, and expect road closures near event areas.
Expect detours: In some cities, protests or special events may lead to street closures or rerouted transit, so plan your route in advance.
July 4, 2025, is shaping up to be a perfect combination of history, celebration, and good vibes. With the holiday falling on a Friday, many Americans will enjoy a full long weekend to travel, relax, or party with family and friends.
Whether you’re attending a mega-fireworks show in the capital, waving flags in a small-town parade, grilling on your back deck, or just enjoying the day off with a cold drink and good company—this Independence Day is all about embracing freedom in your own way.
Just don’t forget to check your mail before Friday, stock up on BBQ supplies early, and maybe raise a toast to Jefferson, Adams, and all the rest who helped make July 4 a day worth celebrating—for nearly 250 years and counting.
Happy Fourth, America.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general awareness and celebratory guidance related to U.S. Independence Day 2025. While we strive for accuracy, holiday hours and closures may vary by location and service provider. Always confirm with local businesses, banks, or government offices before making plans. This content does not substitute for official announcements or advisories. Readers are encouraged to check official websites or contact relevant authorities for the most up-to-date and location-specific information.
You may also like
'Study, don't obstruct classes': State Department official to foreign nationals seeking US student visa; encourages students to apply
Did producer-director Sujoy Ghosh violate copyright? Supreme Court to decide on 'Sabak' vs 'Kahaani 2' row
Sean 'Diddy' Combs verdict explained: What are the charges, why was he acquitted, and what next
Russia expects 3rd round of talks with Ukraine soon: Kremlin
On path to eradicate Naxalism by 2026, says Maharashtra Dy CM Eknath Shinde
