Most major retail chains, including Walmart, Target, and various national supermarkets, will be open on New Year’s Day, Friday, January 1, 2027. While many shops remain accessible to the public, consumers should expect modified operating hours, typically starting later in the morning (around 9:00 AM or 10:00 AM) and closing earlier in the evening (between 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM). Conversely, wholesale clubs like Costco and specialty grocers like Trader Joe’s traditionally remain closed on this federal holiday.
Retailers Open on New Year’s Day
Most large-scale retailers across the United States remain open on New Year’s Day to capitalize on holiday foot traffic and clearance sales. Walmart is a notable example, typically maintaining its standard operating hours of 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM, though individual locations may vary slightly. Target also stays open, usually following its regular schedule of 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM or 11:00 PM, providing a reliable option for household essentials.
Department stores like Macy’s, Kohl’s, and JCPenney typically open their doors on January 1st, often featuring “New Year, New You” sales events. While they are open, many of these stores adopt shortened holiday hours, such as 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM. It is highly recommended to use a store’s official mobile app or website locator to confirm the exact hours for your nearest branch before heading out.
Major Grocery Stores Holiday Hours
Grocery store availability on New Year’s Day is highly dependent on the specific chain and regional labor laws. In the US, Kroger, Publix, and Whole Foods generally remain open, though Whole Foods often operates on a reduced schedule, such as 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM. Safeway and Albertsons also typically stay open, maintaining regular or slightly modified Sunday hours to serve local communities.
Conversely, several prominent chains choose to close entirely on January 1st. Aldi and Trader Joe’s are well-known for closing their doors on New Year’s Day to give their staff a well-deserved day off. If you shop at these retailers, ensure you complete your grocery runs by early evening on New Year’s Eve, as they often close by 6:00 PM or 7:00 PM on December 31st.
UK Supermarket Opening Times
In the United Kingdom, New Year’s Day is a bank holiday, leading to significant variations in supermarket opening times. Major “Big Four” retailers like Tesco, Asda, Sainsbury’s, and Morrisons usually open, but with restricted hours such as 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Tesco Express and Sainsbury’s Local convenience stores often stay open later, sometimes until 10:00 PM or 11:00 PM, to accommodate late-night shoppers.
High-end and discount retailers in the UK often have different policies. Waitrose and Marks & Spencer typically close most of their standalone stores on New Year’s Day, though branches located in travel hubs like train stations may remain open. Similar to their US counterparts, Aldi and Lidl stores in the UK are almost universally closed on January 1st, reopening with regular hours on January 2nd.
Pharmacy and Drugstore Availability
Access to pharmacies is critical on New Year’s Day, and luckily, most major drugstore chains like CVS and Walgreens remain open. Many Walgreens locations are open 24 hours, even on holidays, though the specific pharmacy counter within the store may have limited hours (e.g., 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM). It is vital to call ahead if you need a specific prescription filled to ensure a pharmacist is on duty.
In the UK, pharmacy access is managed through a “rota” system during bank holidays. While large Boots or Superdrug stores in city centers may be open with reduced hours, smaller community pharmacies are likely to be closed. The NHS 111 service or the NHS website can provide real-time information on which “duty pharmacy” is open in your local area for urgent medical needs.
Shopping Malls and Outlets
Shopping malls generally open on New Year’s Day, as it is a popular day for consumers to return gifts or spend holiday gift cards. Most US malls open around 10:00 AM or 11:00 AM and close early, typically between 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM. Anchor stores like Nordstrom or Bloomingdale’s may have different hours than the smaller boutiques located within the mall corridors.
In the UK, major shopping centers like Westfield (London), Trafford Centre (Manchester), and Bullring (Birmingham) remain open on New Year’s Day. They often operate on Sunday hours, which are typically 11:00 AM to 5:00 PM or 12:00 PM to 6:00 PM due to Sunday trading laws. Be prepared for significant crowds in these locations, as New Year sales draw large numbers of bargain hunters.
Practical Information and Planning
Navigating the retail landscape on a public holiday requires a bit of foresight to avoid frustration. Here is the essential data for planning your New Year’s Day outings:
Typical Opening Hours
- Big-Box Stores (Walmart/Target): 7:00 AM – 10:00 PM
- Standard Supermarkets: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Convenience Stores: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM
- Shopping Malls: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
What to Expect
- Limited Staffing: Expect longer checkout lines as many stores operate with skeleton crews.
- Service Closures: Specialty counters like delis, bakeries, or jewelry repair may be closed even if the main store is open.
- Transport Delays: Public transit often runs on a “Sunday” or “Holiday” schedule, meaning buses and trains run less frequently.
Pro Tips for Visitors
Check the App: Download the store’s app; many now feature real-time holiday hour updates.
Go Early: If you must shop, arrive within the first hour of opening to beat the afternoon rush.
Call the Pharmacy: Never assume the pharmacy counter has the same hours as the retail store.
FAQs
Is Walmart open on New Year’s Day?
Yes, most Walmart locations are open during their regular operating hours on New Year’s Day, typically from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM.
Is Costco open on January 1st?
No, Costco is traditionally closed on New Year’s Day to allow its employees to celebrate the holiday.
Are liquor stores open on New Year’s Day?
This varies by state and local law; in many “blue law” states, liquor stores must remain closed, while in others, they may open after noon.
Is Target open on New Year’s Day?
Yes, Target stores are generally open on New Year’s Day, though they may have slightly modified hours depending on the location.
Are post offices open on New Year’s Day?
No, the USPS does not deliver mail on New Year’s Day, and post office branches are closed as it is a federal holiday.
Is Tesco open on New Year’s Day in the UK?
Most Tesco Superstores and Extras are open from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, while Tesco Express stores often stay open from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Are banks open on January 1st?
No, New Year’s Day is a banking holiday in both the US and UK; however, ATMs and online banking services remain fully functional.
Is Starbucks open on New Year’s Day?
Most Starbucks locations remain open to serve holiday commuters, though hours vary by location—especially those inside malls or office buildings.
What time do malls close on New Year’s Day?
Most shopping malls close earlier than usual, typically between 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM.
Are gas stations open on New Year’s Day?
Yes, most major gas station chains and travel centers remain open 24/7 to accommodate holiday travelers.
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