Whether it is the first day of the year or the last, many people still have things to take care of. From grocery runs to last-minute outfit shopping, New Year’s Eve continues to be a busy day for consumers.
In 2026, New Year’s Eve falls on Wednesday, December 31, followed by New Year’s Day on Thursday, January 1. Though most stores and services stay open on New Year’s Eve, several businesses either close or operate with reduced hours on New Year’s Day.
Here is a look at what will be open and closed as the new year begins.
Grocery stores stay largely open
Most grocery stores will remain open on New Year’s Eve, though many will close earlier than usual. Large chains under Albertsons Companies, including Safeway and Vons, will operate on reduced hours, and some in-store pharmacies may have limited timings on New Year’s Day.
Kroger and its family of stores are expected to operate close to regular hours. Warehouse clubs follow a different schedule. Costco will be open for limited hours on New Year’s Eve but will remain closed on New Year’s Day. Sam’s Club and Aldi will also close early on New Year’s Eve and will not open on New Year’s Day. Whole Foods will stay open both days with shorter hours, while Trader Joe’s will close early on New Year’s Eve and remain closed on New Year’s Day.
Retail stores open for last-minute shopping
Major retailers will largely stay open on New Year’s Eve, giving shoppers time to pick up clothing, gifts or home essentials. Walmart stores will operate on regular hours, while Target will be open but close earlier in the evening. Home improvement stores will adjust their schedules.
Home Depot and Lowe’s will close early on New Year’s Eve and reopen on New Year’s Day with shorter operating hours. Department stores such as Macy’s, Kohl’s and Nordstrom will be open on both days, though many will operate on limited or adjusted schedules.
Pharmacies remain accessible
Pharmacies including CVS and Walgreens will be open on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day. However, some locations may operate with reduced pharmacy hours, especially on the holiday itself. Customers are advised to check with their local stores before visiting.
Most bank branches will be open on New Year’s Eve, though some may close early. On New Year’s Day, banks will be closed in observance of the federal holiday. Mobile banking services and ATMs will continue to be available. The New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq will not trade on New Year’s Day.
Postal and shipping services
The US Postal Service will operate as usual on New Year’s Eve, with mail delivery continuing through December 31. On New Year’s Day, postal services will be suspended and no mail will be delivered. Shipping services will see mixed operations. UPS and FedEx will offer limited services on New Year’s Eve, with several pickup and delivery options unavailable. Most shipping services will be closed on New Year’s Day, except for emergency and critical delivery options.
Though many businesses remain open on New Year’s Eve, hours can vary widely by location. New Year’s Day brings more closures and shorter schedules across banks, post offices and retail stores.
