Wondering what stores are open on the 4th of July 2025? Here’s a list of open retailers and a look at why Americans expect to shop—even on Independence Day.
What Stores Are Open on the 4th of July? Why We Always Expect to Shop on Holidays
It’s the 4th of July. Fireworks boom, grills are hot, and yes—people are still heading to the store.
Even though it’s a federal holiday, many major retailers keep their doors open. Whether you’re out of charcoal or forgot the burger buns, you’re probably wondering: What stores are open on the 4th of July?
Here’s what’s open and why we’ve grown so used to always being able to shop—holiday or not.
Which Stores Are Open on Independence Day?
While post offices and banks (like Wells Fargo, Bank of America, and JPMorgan Chase) are closed on July 4, many retail stores remain open—some with shortened hours. Here are the 4th of July store hours for major chains in 2025:
- Is Walmart open on July 4? Yes! Open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.
- Publix: Open regular hours
- Lowe’s: Open regular hours
- Home Depot: Open, but closing early at 8 p.m.
- Petco and PetSmart: Open, but hours vary
- TJ Maxx, Marshalls, HomeGoods: Open, closing early at 8 p.m.
- Sam’s Club: Open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. for Plus members; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. for Club members
- Kohl’s: Most stores open 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- JCPenney, Office Depot, and Tractor Supply Co.: Open with limited hours
- Old Navy, Gap, Belk, Burlington, Sephora: Hours vary by location
- Costco: Closed
So if you’re in need of last-minute supplies, you’re in luck. Many major retailers are ready for your holiday shopping.
The 24/7 Mindset: Why We Expect Stores to Be Open on Holidays
We’ve gotten used to instant access. From midnight food orders to same-day delivery, we live in a world where waiting feels outdated. So when holidays like the Fourth of July come around, we don’t really stop to wonder if stores are open—we just assume they are.
Shopping on holidays feels normal now because we’ve been trained to expect convenience at all times. This habit is part of what’s now called the 24/7 Mindset—a way of thinking where everything should always be available, no matter the day or time.
A Real Story: The Forgotten Charcoal
One 4th of July, my mom was prepping our annual family cookout when she realized something big was missing: the charcoal.
“We don’t have any charcoal!” she called from the kitchen.
I braced myself for the stress that usually follows, but my brother simply stood up, grabbed his keys, and said, “I’ll go to Walmart.”
He didn’t even stop to check the time or think about the holiday. He already knew it would be open.
That’s when it really sank in. These days, we’ve come to rely on stores being open, no matter what day it is.
How the 4th of July Became a Shopping Day
Unlike Thanksgiving or Christmas, most stores stay open on the Fourth of July. That’s because July 4th is seen as more relaxed. It’s considered a “soft holiday.” We still celebrate, but not everything shuts down. The grill is going, the kids are playing, and people still want to shop.
Whether it’s snacks, chairs, sunscreen, or party supplies, retailers know that Americans are out and about on Independence Day. And they prepare for it.
Don’t Forget the People Working Today
Behind every open store is a team of people giving up their holiday time to keep things running. They stock the shelves, ring up purchases, and help you find those last-minute items.
Some of them take the shift because they want the extra hours. Others may not have a choice. Either way, they are there so we can grab that bottle of ketchup we forgot.
It’s important to remember that our holiday convenience depends on their time and effort.
Maybe We Don’t Always Need to Shop
Now, don’t worry. If you really do need something on the 4th of July, it’s okay to go to the store. Life isn’t perfect. Everyone forgets things.
But maybe we can try slowing down.
Holidays are meant to be a break. A time to enjoy the people around us. A time to stop worrying about errands and start making memories.
Before you rush out for a bag of chips or a forgotten beach towel, ask yourself: Do I really need this right now?
Or can I just enjoy the moment the way it is?
The Real Meaning of the 4th of July
The 4th of July isn’t just about fireworks and cookouts. It’s about freedom. It’s about community. It’s also a chance to remember that we don’t always need to be busy.
This year, be thankful that stores are open if you need them. But also be glad if you don’t have to leave the house at all. Celebrate the day. Hug your family. Watch the sky light up. You could even turn off your phone for a bit.
And if you really want that charcoal or those hot dog buns? Pick them up on July 3.
Happy Independence Day!
Enjoy the fireworks. Enjoy the food. And maybe take a break from the store.
