Is the Stock Market Closed for Good Friday?
Updated 3 months from now
Why Are Markets Closed on Good Friday?
Good Friday is not a Federal Holiday in the United States, nor is it a traditional bank holiday. However, both the NYSE and NASDAQ have consistently closed on Good Friday for decades, a practice that extends beyond U.S. borders as other exchanges follow suit.
While most businesses remain open, the closure of financial markets on Good Friday is an established tradition without a definitive explanation.
The Origins of Good Friday Market Closures
The exact reason for U.S. stock markets closing on Good Friday is unclear. One longstanding theory suggests that an early lease agreement for the NYSE may have included a provision requiring closure on this day. While the NYSE has moved locations multiple times, this tradition may have persisted even after the original requirement was no longer relevant.
Another explanation is tied to the cultural and operational practices of Wall Street. Good Friday offers a natural opportunity for a three-day weekend, providing a brief break during the busy spring trading season. Wall Street, known for its adherence to tradition, continues to observe this closure even though it's not mandated by law.
Other Stock Market Holidays
In addition to Good Friday, U.S. stock markets observe closures for most federal holidays, but not all.
To view the full list of observed holidays, visit the NYSE's Holiday Schedule.