On New Year's Day 2025, consumers will have various options for grocery shopping and dining, though many establishments will operate under modified hours or close altogether to observe the federal holiday. With thousands across the nation planning their first errands of the new year, knowing which stores will remain open is key.
According to USA TODAY, Walmart will be open on January 1, 2025, maintaining its regular hours. Similarly, Target stores will also welcome customers for their standard operating hours. Kroger family stores, which include various chains such as Baker's, City Market, and Fred Meyer, will be open, though customers should expect different hours depending on the location.
For health and beauty needs, CVS pharmacies will be open on New Year's Day, albeit with some locations having limited hours. Meanwhile, Walgreens will mostly remain closed, except for 24-hour locations and select pharmacies. Rite Aid locations are expected to operate with varying hours, confirming their commitment to serve customers even on the holiday.
While many grocery chains are welcomed for business, notable ones are shutting their doors this New Year's Day. Costco and Sam's Club will be closed, similarly opting to observe the holiday without running stores. Specialty grocer Trader Joe's will also remain closed on January 1, allowing its employees to spend the day off with family. Aldi will not welcome customers either, marking another grocery chain closed.
Whole Foods is also permitting some customers to shop, as most locations will be open, albeit with reduced hours. Many grocery shoppers may be pleased to know Publix validates their place among stores remaining open, with most locations expected to close early at around 8 p.m.
The scenario for dining out on New Year's Day differs, with many popular chains open to cater to those seeking breakfast or lunch. Chains like McDonald's, Starbucks, and Chipotle will keep their doors open, though consumers are advised to check specific location hours due to the varied nature of franchises. For example, Chipotle will operate from 10:45 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Comfort food aficionados will find solace at restaurants like Cracker Barrel, Waffle House, and Texas Roadhouse, all of which plan to serve regular hours on January 1. Other options for sit-down meals include Olive Garden, IHOP, and Red Lobster, ready to greet customers as they start the new year.
Not all restaurants celebrate New Year's Day with open doors. First Watch, known for its breakfast and brunch offerings, is set to open on the holiday, but informal dining establishments like Hooters and Applebee's will also be available for patrons, depending on local hours.
When it pertains to financial services, customers should note significant closures for the New Year. Most banks, including Capital One and Bank of America, will be closed to observe the holiday, alongside the U.S. Postal Service, which will not deliver mail on January 1, resuming regular operations on January 2.
Shipping services will also pause for the holiday; FedEx and UPS will not operate on New Year's Day. UPS Express Critical remains available year-round, catering to urgent needs, but regular pickup and delivery services will be unavailable. If you need to ship or receive packages, you will have to wait until after the holiday.
Overall, the options for shopping and dining on New Year’s Day are varied, with many establishments acknowledging the holiday. It’s always best for consumers to confirm operating hours with specific stores or restaurants prior to heading out to avoid unnecessary trips.