Good Friday 2025 holiday: Are banks and stock markets open in US?

Good Friday 2025 holiday: Good Friday is an important day for Christians around the world. It marks the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and is a time of mourning, prayer, and reflection. In 2025, Good Friday falls on 18th April, and many people are wondering: Is Good Friday a holiday in the US? Will banks and the stock market remain open?

Let¡¯s break it down for you.

What Is Good Friday and Why Is It Observed?

Good Friday is observed during Holy Week, on the Friday just before Easter Sunday. Christians believe that this was the day Jesus Christ was crucified to save mankind from sin. It¡¯s not a festive occasion but a solemn day to remember the suffering, sacrifice, and love of Jesus.

Good Friday WhatsApp status image | Credit: Freepik

While it¡¯s called Good Friday, the day is more about deep reflection and mourning. In countries like Germany, it's called Karfreitag, meaning Sorrowful Friday. In Spain, it¡¯s referred to as Viernes Santo, meaning Holy Friday.

Is Good Friday a Public Holiday in the US?

Although Good Friday is a religious event, it is not a federal holiday in the United States. This means that most government offices and public services continue to operate normally. However, some states do observe Good Friday as a public holiday.

In fact, 12 US states mark Good Friday as an official holiday. These include:

• Connecticut
• Delaware
• Florida
• Hawaii
• Indiana
• Kentucky
• Louisiana
• New Jersey
• North Carolina
• North Dakota
• Tennessee
• Texas

In these states, you might find that local government offices, courts, and some banks are closed or working with limited hours.

Are Banks Closed on Good Friday 2025?

Since Good Friday is not a federal holiday, banks are not required to close. However, operations may vary depending on the state or local area. Some banks might choose to reduce their working hours or even remain closed, especially in states where the day is recognised as a public holiday.

To avoid any confusion, it¡¯s best to check with your local bank branch ahead of time if you plan to visit on 18th April 2025.

Is Good Friday a Stock Market Holiday in the US?

Yes, Good Friday is indeed a stock market holiday in the United States. The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and NASDAQ will both be closed on 18th April 2025. Trading will pause completely for the day.

Moreover, the bond market will have an early closure on Maundy Thursday (17th April), a day before Good Friday. It is expected to close at 2 PM ET, which means all major financial activity winds down well before the actual holiday begins.

How Christians Celebrate Good Friday Around the World

While it¡¯s not widely recognised as a national holiday in many countries, Good Friday holds deep spiritual significance. Here's how different parts of the world mark the day:

• Vatican City: Thousands gather to see the Pope lead the Way of the Cross at the Colosseum.
• London, UK: A passion play depicting the crucifixion is performed every year in Trafalgar Square ¨C free and open to all.
• Bermuda: People fly kites that represent Jesus rising to heaven.
• Jerusalem: Believers walk along the Via Dolorosa, following the same path Jesus took before he was crucified.
• Ireland: Traditionally, alcohol sales are banned on Good Friday.
• India: Churches hold prayers, and a public holiday status is given in most states. Parades and religious programmes are also common.

What Happens in Churches on Good Friday?

On Good Friday, many Catholic and Christian churches conduct special services, usually in the afternoon, the believed time of Jesus' death. Believers fast, pray, and remember Christ's final hours. A ritual known as the Veneration of the Cross is also observed, where people kneel before a cross to honour Jesus.

In countries like Mexico and Belgium, Churches are draped in black to reflect the solemnness of the day.

Plan for the Good Friday 2025 Holiday

To sum it up:

• Good Friday 2025 falls on 18 April
• It is not a federal holiday in the US, but 12 states observe it as a public holiday
• Banks may remain open or work with reduced hours depending on your location
• US stock markets (NYSE and NASDAQ) will be closed
• Bond market closes early on Maundy Thursday (17 April)

If you plan to handle any banking or trading activities, be sure to plan around the Good Friday holiday. It¡¯s always a smart move to double-check with local banks or financial institutions so you're not caught off guard.

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