New Year’s Day is a federal holiday, but that doesn’t mean everything is closed. On Thursday, January 1, 2026, many major retailers, grocery chains, and restaurants will remain open — although several will operate with reduced hours.

For those planning last-minute shopping or looking for a place to eat, it’s important to check local business hours, since they can vary significantly by chain and location. While stores like Walmart are expected to operate normally, warehouse clubs such as Costco and Sam’s Club will be closed. Many grocery chains will also open, but some locations may shorten their hours.

Below is a list of major chains that will be open — and those that will be closed — on the holiday.

🛒 Grocery stores and major retailers open on New Year’s Day

Walmart
Expected to operate normally, according to Today.com. Most stores will follow their usual schedules.

Target
Stores will also operate during regular business hours. Customers are encouraged to use the store locator to confirm local hours.

BJ’s Wholesale Club
Open from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., including gas stations.

Big Y
Operating normal hours on both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day.

Whole Foods Market
Most stores will be open, though some may close earlier than usual. Check your local store for exact hours.

ShopRite
Stores will be open, with hours varying by location.

Price Rite
Open, with schedules set by each store.

Home Depot
Open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.

🍽️ Restaurants open on New Year’s Day

Shake Shack
Open, though some locations may operate with reduced hours.

McDonald’s
Open, but hours may vary.

Wendy’s
Open — customers should confirm hours at their local restaurant.

Waffle House
Open 24 hours, continuing its tradition of staying open on holidays.

Dunkin’
Most locations will keep regular business hours.

Taco Bell
Open, with hours varying by location.

Chick-fil-A
Most locations will be open — customers should verify locally.

Cracker Barrel
Expected to operate with normal daily hours.

🚫 Stores closed on New Year’s Day

Costco
Warehouses will be closed.

Sam’s Club
Stores will be closed.

ALDI
Closed.

Trader Joe’s
All locations will be closed on January 1.