With the arrival of New Year’s Day 2025, residents across various cities are gearing up to celebrate the start of the new year. Across North America, the day typically signifies closures for many businesses and public services, and this year is no different. Here’s what you need to know about what’s open and closed on January 1, 2025.
Many grocery stores and pharmacies are open, but operate with varied hours. According to CTVNews.ca, residents are advised to check local listings or call ahead to confirm specific operational hours. Major chains like Albertsons, CVS Pharmacy, and Kroger will maintain their regular schedules but suggest customers verify hours for their nearest location. Even fast-food giants like Chick-fil-A, Chipotle, and Dunkin’ plan to open their doors, though again, patrons are encouraged to check specific store schedules.
On the other hand, numerous establishments will be shuttered on New Year’s Day. All U.S. Postal Service locations will observe the holiday and remain closed, marking one of 11 federal holidays during which mail is not delivered. Typical institutions such as banks, the New York Stock Exchange, and government offices will also remain closed. This means residents seeking to conduct banking business or pick up mail will need to wait until January 2, 2025, to resume standard operations.
Specific updates from the City of London highlight additional closures within municipal services. City Hall will be closed, with operations expected to resume on January 2 at 8:30 AM. Grocery stores like Food Lion and Walmart may have reduced hours, indicating the importance of checking with each location before making plans.
Similarly, Saskatoon residents will see closures affecting local services. The Saskatoon Public Library, the city hall, and leisure centres like the Cosmo Civic Centre will not open their doors on this day. The Saskatoon Star Phoenix reported, “City Hall is closed Jan. 1, and will reopen on Jan. 2 at 8 a.m.” Meanwhile, some recreational spots will remain open, such as the Saskatoon Forestry Farm Park & Zoo.
Many retail spaces including Midtown Mall and Lawson Heights Mall are expected to be closed, leaving shoppers to plan around the holiday schedule. This reflects a regional trend where many larger shopping centers choose to close on January 1.
Another aspect of New Year’s Day to keep note of is the holiday schedule for waste collection. Various reports indicate, “Garbage this week, waste collection is one day later if your regular pickup day falls on or after the holiday.” This means residents should be aware of changes to their usual waste collection schedules as they navigate the holiday aftermath.
For those planning to travel or shop on New Year’s Day, it may be wise to verify transit schedules as well. Many transit services, like those in Saskatoon, will operate on holiday hours, which often include reduced frequency and limited service windows. Saskatoon Transit will be running service from 8 AM to 10 PM, and pre-booked rides will also be available during limited hours.
Outside of stores, eateries, and public services, the cultural side of the New Year remains vibrant with plenty of festivities planned. There will be community events and celebrations happening across the cities, but knowing the details on which locales are operational on January 1 is important when planning outings.
Lastly, it’s worth noting the various states of readiness for local venues participating in celebratory events or activities—some may remain closed post-New Year celebrations due to reduced staffing and holiday observance, which is common during holidays like New Year’s Day.
For residents eager to take part in activities, early planning will be key. The interplay of closures and open businesses on New Year’s Day presents both challenges and opportunities, urging individuals to be proactive about planning time spent out of home. If you’re inclined to venture for some last-minute shopping or to grab breakfast at your favorite diner, the necessity to check hours will be integral to avoid disappointment.
With this handy guide on what to expect this New Year, residents can navigate their plans effectively. Be sure to research local openings and take full advantage of the businesses and amenities accessible during this holiday.
Overall, New Year’s Day 2025 is set to be marked by both closures and select openings, signaling the beginning of another year of opportunities and experiences. Happy New Year!