Who is involved
Easter is a significant holiday celebrated by many, and it often comes with specific expectations regarding business hours. Traditionally, many grocery stores and public services close their doors on Good Friday and Easter Sunday, leading to a common question: what is open today? In Renfrew and Peterborough, Canada, the situation for the Easter holiday in 2026 is no different.
Before the holiday, residents anticipated that most grocery stores would be closed for Good Friday and Easter Sunday. This expectation was based on past practices where major retailers like Walmart, Chris and Tanya’s No Frills, Renfrew Metro, and Giant Tiger typically shut down during these significant days. However, as the holiday approaches, changes in operating hours have been announced, creating a shift in what consumers can expect.
On April 3, 2026, which falls on Good Friday, many of these stores will indeed be closed. Aikenhead’s Pharmacy will also be closed, while Rexall will operate from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., providing some options for those in need of pharmacy services. This closure of major grocery stores and pharmacies reflects a broader trend of businesses respecting the holiday and allowing employees time with their families.
However, not all businesses will follow this trend. For instance, Walmart will be open on Easter Sunday from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., providing a significant option for shoppers looking to stock up on essentials. In contrast, Costco and Sam’s Club will be closed on Easter, showcasing the variability in holiday hours among different retailers. BJ’s Wholesale Club will be open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., while Trader Joe’s will maintain its regular hours, offering convenience to those who may need to shop on this holiday.
Public services will also be affected by the holiday. City Hall and administrative services will be closed on both Good Friday and the following Monday, April 6. This closure extends to cultural institutions as well; the Art Gallery of Peterborough will be closed on Friday and Monday but will welcome visitors on Saturday and Sunday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Meanwhile, the Peterborough Public Library will be closed from Friday through Monday, limiting access to public resources during the holiday.
For those looking for recreational activities, the Peterborough Regional Airport will remain open daily from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m., providing travel options for those flying during the holiday. Additionally, Riverview Park and Zoo will be open daily from 8:30 a.m. to dusk, although the Gift Shop will be closed on Good Friday. This allows families to enjoy outdoor activities despite the holiday closures of many businesses.
In summary, while many grocery stores and public services will close for Good Friday and Easter Sunday, there are still options available for those needing to shop or engage in recreational activities. The varying hours of operation among different retailers highlight the importance of checking ahead, especially during holiday periods. As Easter approaches, residents in Renfrew and Peterborough should plan accordingly to navigate the changes in store hours and closures.
