Is the Market Open on Good Friday? What Traders Need to Know

Every year, traders and investors face the same question: will the market be open on Good Friday? The simple answer is no—all major U.S. stock markets shut down on this date, regardless of whether you plan to observe the holiday religiously or simply take the day off. But there’s more to this closure than just religious tradition. Understanding why markets close and what it means for your portfolio is essential for anyone involved in trading.

Market Closures on Good Friday 2026

This year, Good Friday falls on April 10, 2026, and financial markets across the United States will remain closed for the full trading day. This closure includes all major exchanges and indexes: the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), NASDAQ, Dow Jones Industrial Average (DJIA), and S&P 500 (SPX).

The market will resume normal operations at 9:30 a.m. ET on Monday, April 13, 2026. This creates a shortened trading week, giving market participants a break from the typical 5-day schedule. For those who cannot wait until Monday, it’s important to note that no equity trading will occur on Friday, April 10th.

Why Stock and Bond Markets Close on Good Friday

The closure of markets on Good Friday isn’t mandated by federal law—in fact, Good Friday isn’t officially a federal holiday in the United States. So why do markets shut down? The answer lies primarily in historical practice rather than legal requirement.

Since at least the late 19th century, U.S. financial markets have observed Good Friday as a de facto market holiday. The New York Stock Exchange established this tradition long ago, and it has persisted through regulatory frameworks maintained by organizations like the Securities Industry and Financial Markets Association (SIFMA). Both stock and bond markets follow these guidelines, meaning U.S. fixed-income markets close alongside equity markets.

From an operational standpoint, the closure serves practical purposes. When fewer traders participate in the market, volatility can increase and liquidity can suffer. By closing entirely, regulators ensure orderly trading and prevent the chaos that could result from a significantly reduced participant pool. Additionally, many market professionals take Good Friday off for personal or religious reasons anyway, which would naturally thin the trading floor.

The Historical and Cultural Roots of Good Friday

To understand why markets still honor this day, it helps to know what Good Friday represents. The holiday commemorates the crucifixion of Jesus Christ and is observed two days before Easter Sunday. It’s a core part of the Christian Holy Week and carries profound spiritual significance across multiple Christian denominations.

Many countries around the world recognize Good Friday as a public holiday, with businesses, schools, and government offices closing to allow for community observance and personal reflection. Beyond its religious roots, Good Friday has evolved into a broader cultural moment. Communities hold processions, engage in charitable acts, and take time for quiet contemplation. The themes of sacrifice, compassion, redemption, and resilience resonate across cultural boundaries, making it meaningful even for those outside Christian traditions.

Making the Most of Your Good Friday Break

If you get the day off but don’t follow a religious practice, Good Friday still offers valuable opportunities to use your time meaningfully. Consider these approaches:

Self-Reflection and Growth: Set aside time for journaling, meditation, or quiet thinking about your personal values and long-term goals. This mental reset can be especially valuable for traders who spend most of their time analyzing markets and data.

Community Service: Use the day to volunteer at a local charity, donate to a cause important to you, or perform acts of kindness in your community. These activities embody the spirit of compassion central to Good Friday’s message.

Cultural Exploration: Watch documentaries or read about the historical significance of Good Friday across different cultures. Understanding why this day matters to so many people can deepen your appreciation for market traditions and global practices.

Rest and Connection: Simply treating it as a genuine day off—spending quality time with family or friends, pursuing hobbies, or enjoying rest—honors the spirit of the holiday while supporting your own well-being.

Whether you spend Good Friday in religious observance, community service, personal reflection, or simply enjoying a well-earned break from market activity, the closure of the market on this date reflects a long-standing tradition that balances financial operations with broader cultural values.