What's Closed on Independence Day?

Independence Day falls on Saturday this year, making Friday the federal holiday. Here's how services will be affected:

Financial markets: U.S. financial markets will be closed today.

Banks: Many banks will be open today. Saturday is the federal bank holiday.

Mass transit: CTA service will operate on a Sunday/holiday schedule today. But beginning about 1 p.m., additional service will be provided on bus and train routes to accommodate those going downtown for the fireworks. Extra service will also be provided July 4.

Metra will run on a regular weekday schedule today, but ramp up service to accommodate fireworks goers in the afternoon and evening. Metra will run on a holiday, rather than a Saturday schedule, July 4.

Mail: The U.S. Postal Service will deliver mail today, although most mailbox pickups will stop at noon. Most post offices will close at noon. The downtown post office at 433 W. Harrison -- and select suburban post offices -- will be open until 5 p.m.

Parking meters: Must be fed in Chicago.

Chicago beaches: Lifeguards on duty at Chicago beaches from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m.

Garbage pickup: No City of Chicago garbage pickup.

Public libraries: All Chicago libraries are closed today and Saturday.

Government and courts: City Hall, Cook County buildings and criminal and civil courts are closed -- but holiday bond court is open. Federal courts are closed.