Easter shopping scramble: which stores are actually open?

Published on 05/04/2026 11:13 in business • Betty Brown

The scent of chocolate and the promise of springtime joy are in the air, but for many Americans, the Easter holiday is beginning with a frantic dash to the stores. With a handful of major retailers opting for closure on Sunday, April 7th, a last-minute scramble for candy, dinner fixings, and celebratory essentials is underway. But knowing who’s open – and who’s closed – is key to a stress-free holiday.

Navigating sunday

The usual Sunday closure extends to several national chains this year, a reminder that even in our perpetually-open economy, tradition still holds sway. ALDI, Costco, and Target are among the big names shuttering their doors, potentially throwing a wrench into last-minute plans. But don’t despair entirely; several options remain for those needing a quick errand run.

CVS, Walgreens, and Whole Foods are keeping their doors open, offering a relative oasis for those needing over-the-counter medications or gourmet ingredients. Even Domino's, Dunkin', IHOP, McDonald's, Subway, and Taco Bell will be serving up familiar comforts. However, be warned: Whole Foods and many CVS locations will be closing early, around 6 p.m. or 8 p.m., depending on the specific location—a detail easily overlooked in the holiday rush.

IKEA, Food Lion, Kroger, and Trader Joe’s (with a notable exception in Portland, Maine) will also be open, providing a range of goods from furniture to groceries. But, as always, checking local store hours is paramount. Variations can occur based on regional practices and staffing levels. The absence of UPS delivery services is another factor to consider for those relying on Sunday shipments.

The stock market, closed for Good Friday, will resume trading on Monday, April 8th, offering little immediate solace to shoppers facing Sunday closures. The United States Postal Service, however, will maintain regular delivery services and keep retail locations operating as usual.

Perhaps the most significant disruption comes from the closures at retailers like JCPenney, Kohl’s, Lowe’s, Nordstrom (with a few California, Florida, and New York locations bucking the trend), and Marshalls. The absence of TJ Maxx and HomeGoods further limits options for those seeking home goods and apparel.

The Portland, Maine, locations of Trader Joe’s and Whole Foods are also closed, a particularly significant detail for locals accustomed to their Sunday hours. This scattered landscape of openings and closures highlights a shift in retail behavior, a recognition that even holidays are evolving.

The number of closed stores underlines a subtle but growing trend: prioritizing employee rest and family time over maximizing every possible sales opportunity. While inconvenient for some, it's a reminder of the human element behind even the most globalized commerce.