What it is
Good Friday marks the crucifixion of Jesus and is one of the most solemn days of the Christian year. Its date moves every year with Easter, so it falls between March 20 and April 23.
Is it a day off?
It is not a federal holiday, so federal offices, banks and the post office are open. The New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq do close, which surprises many people.
A few states give state workers the day off, including Connecticut, Hawaii and New Jersey. Some private employers, schools and Catholic institutions close.
History
Markets have closed on Good Friday for most of their history, even though it is not a government holiday.