What's open, what's closed on July 4 in Columbus? Here's what we know
Independence Day falls on a Thursday this year, smack-dab in the middle of the normal work week.
This means that many businesses and services that would otherwise be open might close that day to celebrate the Fourth of July.
If you need to get some last-minute shopping done or mail a package on the holiday, here's what you need to know.
Are government offices, schools, colleges closed?
Federal, state, city and county government offices will be closed on the holiday. Public school districts like Columbus City Schools will also be closed, along with colleges like Ohio State University and the Columbus College of Art and Design.
All Columbus Metropolitan Library locations will close at 6 p.m. on July 3 for Red, White & Boom! and remain closed on July 4.
Will there be mail and package delivery?
USPS will not be delivering mail on the holiday, and its offices will be closed. UPS will also be closed that day, but its Express Critical service will still be available.
Residents that need to buy stamps or send urgent mail on July 4 can do so using self-service kiosks available at some post offices.
FedEx will be closed on Independence Day, but its Critical Custom service will still be available. Some of its FedEx Office retail stores will be open with modified hours.
Will Columbus have trash collection on July 4?
There won't be any trash or recycling collection on the holiday.
Can I go to the bank?
Most banks will be closed for Independence Day. ATMs are still be available in some locations.
Can I park for free on July 4?
Street parking in Columbus is generally free on the holiday, but some parking restrictions on taxi, bus, loading, handicap, and residential zones may still be enforced. Motorists are advised to read signs, The Dispatch previously reported.
Will COTA be running?
COTA buses will operate on a Sunday schedule for the holiday, meaning frequent buses will run from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m., standard buses from 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. and zoo buses from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Are grocery, department and other stores open?
Grocery chains like Kroger, Walmart, and Aldi will be open, but some locations may have revised hours.
Costco will be closed, while Sam's Club will be open with revised hours.
Other retail stores may also be open. Check their website or call before going.
Are financial markets open?
The New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq will be closed.
This article originally appeared on The Columbus Dispatch: Here's what's open, what's closed on Independence Day in Columbus
