Black Friday 2017: What’s Open And Closed? Banks, Pharmacies And Post Offices

While Black Friday turns into a holiday for lots of people, the day after Thanksgiving is not a federal or bank holiday. For many its business as usual. The day is also a kick off for the holiday shopping season with many retailers holding large sales. According to National Retail Federation, Americans spent an average of $289.19 per person last year, with one third of people purchasing something at a sales price.

Because its not a federal holiday, most government offices will remain open, including the U.S. Postal Service and all other federal government services. Nov. 24 is a holiday in 18 states, though not necessarily for Black Friday. In Indiana and New Mexico, for example, the day celebrates Abraham Lincoln’s birthday. So municipal government services and offices may be affected depending on the state.

Most banks will be open as well, including Bank of America, Chase Bank, Citibank, Citizens Bank and Santander. No major bank will be closed, but local branches may be affected. According to GoBankingRates.com, the following credit unions will not be open: Allegan Credit Union, Mobiloil Credit Union, Truliant Federal Credit Union and Welcome Federal Credit Union.

The New York Stock Exchange and the Nasdaq will open on Black Friday, but will close early at 1 p.m.

Most major retailers will be open, some open as early as midnight on Thanksgiving. Most will have major sales for those looking to begin holiday shopping.

Most major pharmacies will also be open. CVS, Walmart, Walgreens and Rite Aid will have regular business hours on Black Friday.

Public Transit operation in several cities will vary — with most running a regular schedule. New York City’s MTA, Philadelphia’s SEPTA, Washington D.C.’s Metro and San Francisco’s BART will operate a normal schedule with a few changes. Boston’s MBTA will operate a regular schedule except for the Green Line which will operate on a Saturday schedule. Los Angeles’ Metro will operate on a Sunday schedule for buses and a Saturday schedule for rail.