Many retailers across the country adjust their hours for Easter, with some offering special hours for last-minute shoppers.
Category: Lifestyle
Easter Sunday falls on April 5, 2026, and many grocery stores and retailers are adjusting their hours, providing options for shoppers looking to grab last-minute items for their holiday celebrations. Unlike holidays such as Thanksgiving and Christmas, when many businesses close their doors, Easter has increasingly become a day when numerous stores remain open, though often with modified hours.
In Massachusetts, for example, several major grocery chains are either closing entirely or limiting their hours. Market Basket and Big Y supermarkets will be closed on Easter Sunday, allowing their employees to spend time with family. In a similar vein, Roche Bros. has also confirmed it will not open its doors on this holiday.
On the other hand, Stop & Shop stores in Massachusetts will open at 7 a.m. but will close early at 5 p.m. Shaw's and Star Market will operate during regular Sunday hours, but all pharmacies within these stores will be closed for the day. Trader Joe's will be open during regular hours, providing customers with access to its popular products.
Hannaford stores will open from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m., and Whole Foods locations will operate with modified hours, closing as early as 6 p.m. or as late as 8 p.m., depending on the store. Wegmans has announced that its stores will be open during normal business hours, though some departments may have shortened hours.
Meanwhile, liquor stores in Massachusetts will remain open, as state laws permit alcohol sales on Easter. BJ's Wholesale Club will also be open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., with hours that may vary slightly by location.
In the Des Moines metro area, shoppers will find a mix of open and closed stores. Aldi will be closed on Easter, as will Fareway stores, which maintain a policy of closing on Sundays. C Fresh Market, Cash Saver, and Fresh Thyme will all be open during their normal hours, with C Fresh operating from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. and Cash Saver from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Hy-Vee stores will also be open, though specific hours may vary by location. Trader Joe's in West Des Moines and Coralville will be open from 8 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Walmart will operate during its regular hours on Easter Sunday.
In addition to grocery stores, several national retailers are adjusting their hours for the holiday. Target, Costco, and Sam's Club will all be closed on Easter, allowing employees to observe the holiday with their families. On the other hand, Walmart, Walgreens, and CVS will remain open, providing shoppers with options for last-minute purchases.
In Rhode Island, grocery store operations mirror those in Massachusetts, with many stores opting for limited hours. Most Stop & Shop locations will be open until 5 p.m., and Shaw's will maintain regular hours. Aldi and Dave's Fresh Marketplace will be closed on Easter, similar to the policies of Market Basket and Costco.
Whole Foods will open with modified hours, and Trader Joe's will be open during regular hours, offering shoppers a chance to pick up holiday essentials. Walmart in the state will also be open, ensuring that customers have access to groceries and other necessities.
Over in Alabama, Easter Sunday will see Walmart open during normal business hours, as the retailer typically only closes on Thanksgiving and Christmas. Kroger will also be open, providing shoppers with access to groceries and last-minute items. In stark opposition, Aldi, Costco, Publix, and Target will be closed.
As for restaurants, many chains will remain open on Easter Sunday. Notable names include Applebee’s, Burger King, and Denny’s, among others. Consumers looking for dining options can expect a variety of choices, though it is recommended to call ahead to confirm hours, as local locations may vary.
With Easter Sunday approaching, consumers are encouraged to check the hours of their local stores to avoid any surprises. Many retailers are likely to update their hours closer to the holiday, so it's wise to verify before heading out. This year, Easter Sunday marks a day of celebration for many and provides an opportunity for last-minute shopping at various grocery stores and retailers.
As families gather to celebrate the holiday, the availability of grocery stores and restaurants can make all the difference in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable Easter celebration. Whether it’s picking up a last-minute ham or grabbing some festive treats, shoppers will find a range of options available this Easter.
In the end, the mix of open and closed stores reflects the diverse approaches businesses take toward holiday observance, balancing employee needs with customer demands. As always, it's best to check local listings for the most accurate information on store hours as Easter approaches.