Is the Stock Market Closed on Thanksgiving Day? Complete Trading Guide
Thanksgiving Day is one of the most important holidays in the United States, traditionally observed on the fourth Thursday of November. Here's everything traders and investors need to know about Thanksgiving market closures and Black Friday trading schedules.
!Quick Answer
Yes, the U.S. stock market is closed on Thanksgiving Day (fourth Thursday in November).This includes the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), NASDAQ, and most major U.S. exchanges. Bond markets are also closed. However, many exchanges have shortened hours on Black Friday(the day after Thanksgiving).
Which Markets Are Closed on Thanksgiving?
Thanksgiving Day is a federal holiday in the United States, observed on the fourth Thursday of November. As such, most financial markets observe this closure:
Major U.S. Stock Exchanges (CLOSED)
- New York Stock Exchange (NYSE)Fully closed
- NASDAQ Stock MarketFully closed
- Chicago Mercantile Exchange (CME)Fully closed
- Chicago Board Options Exchange (CBOE)Fully closed
Bond & Other Markets (CLOSED)
- U.S. Treasury SecuritiesNo trading
- Corporate & Municipal BondsNo trading
- SIFMA Bond MarketsRecommended closure
- Commodity MarketsMost contracts closed
Black Friday Trading Hours (Shortened Day)
While Thanksgiving Day is a complete market closure, Black Friday (the day after Thanksgiving) typically features shortened trading hours:
Black Friday Market Hours (Shortened Day)
!Note: Hours may vary by year. Always check with your broker or exchange for exact times.
Thanksgiving Date Schedule
Thanksgiving is always observed on the fourth Thursday of November:
Thanksgiving Schedule
International Markets During Thanksgiving
While U.S. markets are closed for Thanksgiving, international markets continue normal operations:
Open International Markets
- London Stock Exchange (LSE)Normal hours
- European MarketsNormal trading schedules
- Tokyo Stock Exchange (TSE)Normal hours
- Hong Kong Exchange (HKEX)Normal hours
- Australian Securities Exchange (ASX)Normal hours
- Canadian MarketsNormal hours (different Thanksgiving)
Thanksgiving Trading Strategies
The Thanksgiving holiday period presents unique trading considerations:
Pre-Thanksgiving Considerations
- Light Volume Wednesday:Wednesday before Thanksgiving often sees reduced trading
- Position Management:Review portfolio risk over the 4-day weekend
- Holiday Effect:Markets often rally before major holidays
Black Friday Opportunities
- Shortened Session:Only 3.5 hours of trading - plan accordingly
- Retail Stocks:Black Friday sales data may impact retail sector
- Year-End Positioning:Institutional investors begin holiday positioning
Key Takeaways
- ✅ U.S. stock markets are fully closed on Thanksgiving Day (fourth Thursday in November)
- ✅ Black Friday features shortened hours - typically 9:30 AM to 1:00 PM ET
- ✅ Bond markets also close on Thanksgiving with shortened Friday hours
- ✅ International markets remain open with normal trading schedules
- ✅ Plan for light volume on Wednesday before and shortened Friday session
- ✅ Monitor retail stocks for Black Friday sales impact
The Thanksgiving holiday period marks the beginning of the holiday season and year-end trading patterns. Understanding these market closures and shortened sessions helps you plan your trading strategy effectively during this unique period.
For real-time market schedules and holiday information, bookmark ourmarket holidays calendar to stay informed about upcoming closures and plan your trading activities accordingly.