By Rajeev Dhir | NJ Advance Media for NJ.com
This year, Good Friday falls on April 14. While it is a Christian holiday, it not a federal holiday. That means it's not one of the holidays established by federal law.
Good Friday is celebrated by Christians across the world, marking the crucifixion of Jesus Christ. It's followed by Easter, when the faithful celebrate the resurrection of Christ.
The next federal holiday -- Memorial Day -- falls on Monday, May 29.
Is Good Friday a New Jersey state holiday?
Yes. New Jersey is one of the 12 states in the U.S. that observe Good Friday, which means state government and state courts are closed.
Is there mail delivery on Good Friday? And will the post office be open? What about courier options?
Because Good Friday isn't a federal holiday for the United States Postal Service, there will be mail delivery on April 14.
Your local post office should be open during regular business hours.
Courier services are still running as per usual. All Fedex and UPS services run on a normal schedule on Good Friday.
Are stock markets open on Good Friday?
The stock markets will be closed. The NYSE and Nasdaq will resume regular trading at 9:30 a.m. Monday.
Are banks open on Good Friday?
Yes, most banks will be open for business on Good Friday. But check the website for yours before you actually go with that deposit or withdrawal slip just to be sure.
Are stores and malls open on Good Friday?
If you want to hit the stores to do some shopping, you're in luck. Many stores such as Walmart and Target, as well as malls will keep regular business hours on Good Friday.
Are schools open for Good Friday?
Public schools across the state have the option to keep their doors open for Good Friday. Check with your local school district to be sure whether it is observing the holiday, which means you may need to deal with child care if you're not already home yourself.
Can I renew my driver's license?
No. Because the Motor Vehicle Commission is a state-run agency, it will be closed, as will many state-level and municipal courthouses. Federal courts, though, will still be open.
What is the NJ Transit schedule?
Excellent question.
Good Friday is an observed holiday and may affect travel on NJ Transit. Most rail lines are running normal service, but you should always check to see whether your bus, light rail or train service is running on a holiday or special service schedule. Holidays on NJ Transit are observed from 7 p.m. the day before the holiday to 6 a.m. on the day after the holiday.
The PATH trains will run on a normal weekday schedule this year.
Reena Rose Sibayan | The Jersey Journal
Which states observe Good Friday as a state holiday?
While Good Friday is not observed as a federal holiday there are 12 states, including New Jersey, numerous counties and towns across the U.S. which deem it a government holiday. The states include: Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Hawaii, Indiana, Kentucky (half day), Louisiana, New Jersey, North Carolina, North Dakota, Tennessee and Texas.
Rajeev Dhir may be reached at rdhir@njadvancemedia.com. Follow him on Twitter @googasmammoo. Find NJ.com on Facebook.
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