ES Futures Trading Hours (EST) & Holiday Schedule
Understanding the trading hours of ES futures is essential for anyone trading the E-mini S&P 500. Unlike regular stock trading, ES futures operate nearly 24 hours a day, giving traders around-the-clock access to market movements.
This guide outlines the full trading hours in Eastern Time (EST) and the CME holiday schedule that can impact your strategy.
Regular Trading Hours for ES Futures (CME Globex)
- Sunday to Friday:
- Start: 6:00 p.m. EST (Sunday)
- End: 5:00 p.m. EST (Friday)
- Daily Break: 5:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. EST (Maintenance hour)
This 23-hour cycle allows for after-hours trading, perfect for reacting to global events and economic data outside U.S. stock market hours.
U.S. Stock Market vs. ES Futures Hours
| Market | Open (EST) | Close (EST) |
|---|---|---|
| S&P 500 (SPX) Index | 9:30 AM | 4:00 PM |
| ES Futures (Globex) | 6:00 PM (prev. day) | 5:00 PM |
ES futures offer overnight and pre-market access, which stock traders don’t get.
Best Times to Trade ES Futures
- 9:30 AM to 11:30 AM EST: High liquidity and volatility
- 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM EST: Afternoon moves before close
- 8:00 PM to 10:30 PM EST: Asian session overlap
- 2:00 AM to 4:00 AM EST: European session momentum
These time blocks often align with news releases and institutional activity.
ES Futures Holiday Schedule (2025)
ES futures follow the CME Globex holiday calendar. Below are common closures:
| Holiday | Trading Status |
|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | Closed or Early Close on Dec 31 |
| Martin Luther King Jr. | Early close the day before |
| Presidents’ Day | Early close |
| Good Friday | Closed |
| Memorial Day | Early close |
| Independence Day | Early close or closed (July 4) |
| Labor Day | Early close |
| Thanksgiving Day | Early close (Wednesday) & limited hours |
| Christmas Day | Closed or early close on Dec 24 |
📌 Always refer to CME Group Holiday Calendar for updates.
How Holidays Affect Trading
- Reduced Volume: Wider spreads and lower liquidity
- Early Closes: Cut-off time usually at 1:00 p.m. EST
- Overnight Risk: Thin markets may cause slippage
FAQs
Q1. What time does ES futures open on Sunday?
It opens at 6:00 p.m. EST on Sunday evening.
Q2. Is ES futures trading available 24/7?
Almost. It trades 23 hours a day, with a one-hour maintenance break from 5:00 to 6:00 p.m. EST.
Q3. Can I trade ES on U.S. public holidays?
Only partial or no access, depending on the holiday. Always check CME announcements.
Q4. When is the best time to avoid trading ES?
Avoid thin liquidity periods like 5:00–6:00 p.m. EST and major holidays.
Q5. Does ES futures close on weekends?
Yes. The market is closed from Friday 5:00 p.m. to Sunday 6:00 p.m. EST.
