The history behind Fourth of July fireworks and other traditions
How did your favorite Fourth of July traditions get started? What to know about the history of Independence Day.
Consumers needing to grab some last-minute snacks or refreshments for their 4th of July gathering will have plenty of options this year.
That’s because most grocery store chains will remain open in some capacity on Friday, July 4, while banks and post offices will be closed on the holiday.
Chains such as Kroger, Walmart, Food Lion and Publix will be open normal hours on the 4th of July, while other’s such as Trader Joe’s and Aldi will be open limited hours.
The origins of the Fourth of July date back to July 4, 1776, when the U.S. unanimously adopted the Declaration of Independence. However, the annual observation of the holiday only became a regular occurrence after the War of 1812, when events such as groundbreaking ceremonies for the Erie Canal and the Baltimore and Ohio Railroad were scheduled to coincide with Fourth of July festivities, according to the Library of Congress. Congress passed a law making Independence Day a federal holiday on June 28, 1870.
Here’s what you need to know about grocery stores and whether or not they’ll be open on the Fourth of July.
Is Walmart open on the Fourth of July?
Yes, Walmart stores will be open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. on the Fourth of July. It’s still best to your check with your local Walmart or check the online store directory to confirm hours before heading to the store.
Is Costco open on the Fourth of July?
According to Costco’s website, warehouses will be closed on Friday, July 4.
Is Kroger open on the Fourth of July?
While a few stores may be outliers, most stores in the Kroger family of companies will be open regular hours on July 4, the company told USA TODAY.
The Kroger family of stores includes: Baker’s, City Market, Dillons, Food 4 Less, Foods Co, Fred Meyer, Fry’s, Gerbes, Jay C Food Store, King Soopers, Kroger, Mariano’s, Metro Market, Pay-Less Super Markets, Pick’n Save, QFC, Ralphs, Ruler, Smith’s Food and Drug.
Is Target open on the Fourth of July?
Yes, Target stores will be open on the Fourth of July, the company told USA TODAY. Store hours vary by location, so check with your local store regarding its specific holiday hours.
Is Sam’s Club open on the Fourth of July?
Sam’s Club warehouses will be open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. for Plus members, and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. for Club members on the Fourth of July, according to the company’s website.
Is Trader Joe’s open on the Fourth of July?
Trader Joe’s stores will be open on the 4th of July, however all stores will close at 5 p.m. local time, the company told USA TODAY.
Is Meijer open on the Fourth of July?
Yes, Meijer stores will be open from 6 a.m. to midnight on Friday, the company told USA TODAY.
Is Publix open on the Fourth of July?
Yes, Publix stores will be open regular hours on July 4, the company confirmed to USA TODAY.
Is Aldi open on the Fourth of July?
Aldi stores will be open limited hours on July 4th. Holiday hours vary by location, so customers are encouraged to check with their local stores for specific hours.
Is Whole Foods open on the Fourth of July?
Yes, Whole Foods stores will be open on July 4. Hours vary by location, so check with your local store for their specific hours.
Is Food Lion open on the Fourth of July?
A Food Lion spokesperson told USA TODAY its stores will be open regular hours on Friday, July 4.
Is Wegmans open on the Fourth of July?
Yes, Wegmans stores will be open regular hours on Friday, July 4, the company confirmed to USA TODAY.
Are Harveys and Winn-Dixie open on the Fourth of July?
Yes, Harveys and Winn-Dixie stores will be open regular hours on July 4, the company told USA TODAY.
Are Albertsons or Safeway open on the Fourth of July?
A majority of Albertsons Companies stores will be open on Friday, July 4, the company confirmed to USA TODAY, however pharmacies may be closed or have adjusted hours.
The company recommends customers check with their local store for pharmacy hours on holidays.
The Albertsons family of stores includes Safeway, Jewel-Osco, ACME, Shaw’s, Vons and Tom Thumb.
Is Lidl open on the Fourth of July?
Yes, Lidl stores will be open on July 4, a company spokesperson confirmed to USA TODAY.
Is Harris Teeter open on the Fourth of July?
Yes, Harris Teeter stores will be open regular hours on Friday.
Is Giant Eagle open on the Fourth of July?
Giant Eagle and Market District supermarkets will be open regular hours on the Fourth of July, the company told USA TODAY.
Giant Eagle pharmacy locations will be open from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the holiday.
Gabe Hauari is a national trending news reporter at USA TODAY. You can follow him on X @GabeHauari or email him at Gdhauari@gannett.com.
