Stock Market Early Close Days
On a few days each year the NYSE and Nasdaq close at 1:00 p.m. ET instead of 4:00 p.m. These shortened sessions sit next to major holidays, when trading volume is light and many people are traveling.
Early closes in 2026 and 2027
| Date | Occasion | Stocks close |
|---|---|---|
| Day after Thanksgiving | 1:00 PM ET | |
| Christmas Eve | 1:00 PM ET | |
| Day after Thanksgiving | 1:00 PM ET |
In 2026, July 4 falls on a Saturday, so the market closes all day on Friday, July 3 and there is no early close.
In 2027, July 4 falls on a Sunday, so the market closes on Monday, July 5 and there is no early close. Christmas falls on a Saturday, so the market closes all day on Friday, December 24 instead of closing early.
The three regular early closes
Day after Thanksgiving (Black Friday)
Every year, the Friday after Thanksgiving is a half day. Retail stocks get extra attention as the holiday shopping season begins, but overall volume is among the lowest of the year.
Christmas Eve
When December 24 is a weekday and Christmas is not on a Saturday, the market closes at 1:00 p.m. ET.
Day before Independence Day
When July 4 falls on a Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday or Friday, July 3 is a 1:00 p.m. close. If July 4 is a Monday or a weekend day, there is no early close.
What else changes on early-close days
- Options: eligible options stop trading at 1:15 p.m. ET.
- After-hours: extended trading usually ends at 5:00 p.m. ET.
- Bonds: SIFMA typically recommends a 2:00 p.m. ET close for U.S. bond markets on these days, and on the day before most other holidays, including New Year's Eve.
Frequently asked questions
What time does the stock market close on early-close days?
1:00 p.m. Eastern Time for stocks. Eligible options close at 1:15 p.m. ET, and the bond market usually closes at 2:00 p.m. ET on the same days.
Is the stock market open the day after Thanksgiving?
Yes, but only until 1:00 p.m. ET. Black Friday is a shortened trading day every year.
Is the stock market open on Christmas Eve?
Usually yes, with a 1:00 p.m. ET close when December 24 falls on a weekday. When Christmas falls on a Saturday, the market instead closes all day on Friday, December 24.
Is the stock market open on New Year's Eve?
Yes. U.S. stock markets trade a full session on December 31. Only the bond market closes early.
Is the stock market open on July 3?
It depends on the calendar. When July 4 falls on a Tuesday through Friday, July 3 is a 1:00 p.m. early close. When July 4 is a Saturday, the market closes all day on Friday, July 3 instead.