With New Year's Day 2025 just around the corner, shoppers are gearing up for the holiday, but many might be wondering about their favorite retail spots. While some places will keep their doors open to welcome customers, Costco will not be among them. This January 1st, all Costco locations across the United States will remain closed to honor the federal holiday.
According to the company's official website, "Costco stores will be closed on Jan. 1," ensuring employees can take part in the festivities with their families. The closure aligns with Costco's tradition of observing major holidays, providing its workforce with deserved downtime at the peak of the holiday season.
While Costco shuts down for the New Year, other retailers will be stepping up to serve customers looking to spend holiday gift cards or make returns. For example, Walmart will operate on its usual schedule, confirming via spokesperson comments reported by TODAY, "All stores will operate during normal business hours." Typically, Walmart stores are open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., but customers are advised to check specific locations for variations.
Similarly, Target, which had closed its doors on Christmas Day, will be welcoming shoppers on New Year's Day, providing another option for those eager to hit the stores. Shoppers can expect most stores to be open, with hours varying by location. This creates opportunities for customers to purchase essentials, leftovers, or those last-minute items needed for gathering celebrations.
Adding to the mix, grocery stores such as Whole Foods and Walmart will remain open, allowing families to stock up on holiday essentials to start the new year off right. While many grocers are accommodating holiday shoppers, it's worth mentioning companies like Aldi and Trader Joe's will also close like Costco, meaning customers need to plan accordingly.
Meanwhile, shoppers may find it helpful to note the hours of various other retail stores. For example, stores such as Kohl's will be open, as will TJ Maxx and HomeGoods, extending retail hours to accommodate the post-holiday rush. With most stores opting to remain open, those who wish to engage in some shopping will have plenty of options outside of Costco.
On New Year's Eve, which precedes this day of closure, Costco had been open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. for last-minute holiday shopping. This gives customers the chance to load up on party supplies or festive treats just before the New Year celebrations begin. Nevertheless, the outright closing on New Year's Day itself may leave some shoppers scrambling to find alternative spots, especially if they had Costco on their mind.
From experiences over years of shopping habits, the preference for household-name retailers like Walmart and Target on this holiday indicates widespread loyalty among customers. This loyalty often leads to packed aisles and busy checkout lines, but customers shouldn't be deterred by the crowds; it's all part of the holiday retail experience.
While the New Year often brings resolutions and fresh starts, stepping out for retail therapy can play its role as well. For many, the act of shopping—whether fulfilling necessities or indulging whims—is part of embracing the holiday spirit. With Costco's closure, it seems shoppers may need to pivot plans, but retail giants are there to fill the gap.
So, as you plan for New Year's Day 2025, keep Costco's closure at the forefront of your mind. The store will transform from shopping haven to peaceful warehouse, giving its employees and customers the time off they deserve. Mark your calendars for your return on the following day if you're among the Costco faithful. Until then, embrace the variety of other choices available, and happy shopping to all celebrating the New Year!