What's Open and Closed on New Year's Day 2025?

After all those parties on New Year's Eve, you might be wondering what tasks you'll be able to accomplish on New Year's Day, and you might be curious as to what will be open on the first day of the new year. Can you do a quick run to the liquor store on the way to New Year's Day dinner? A quick Target run to pick up the last few things you need to set the table? A trip to the grocery store for milk and eggs? This comprehensive guide will help you navigate the holiday hours of various businesses and services.

Grocery Stores and Supermarkets

Most supermarkets will indeed be open on New Year's Day, so you'll be able to cook a big celebration dinner that night. However, keep in mind that some popular chains may have adjusted hours or be closed altogether. For example, Aldi, Trader Joe's, and Costco locations will be closed for the holiday. Most Whole Foods Market stores will be open but with limited hours; always check their website for specific timings. Remember to call ahead before heading out to confirm store hours to avoid disappointment.

Liquor Stores

Liquor stores in many states are open on New Year's Day. In New Hampshire, for instance, a change to the law in 2021 allows them to operate on this holiday. This will be the fourth year they are allowed to open for the holiday. However, it's essential to check local regulations, as hours may vary by location.

Mail and Shipping Services

The post office will not be delivering mail on New Year's Day, which means there also won't be regular mail delivery or pickups from the blue collection boxes. UPS will have limited locations open, with UPS Express Critical available for delivery. FedEx will be closed except for its Custom Critical service. Planning to send packages? Be aware of these shipping restrictions and plan accordingly.

Banks and Financial Markets

The New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq will be closed for the holiday, and banks will also be closed. This is standard procedure for most financial institutions on New Year's Day.

Retail Stores: Your Shopping Guide

Many large retail chains will maintain operational hours on January 1st, although these hours may be abbreviated. Let's look at some prominent examples:

Walmart: Open regular hours.
Target: Open regular hours.
Kohl's: Open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Macy's, Nordstrom, and JCPenney: Open, but hours vary by location; it’s essential to check online or call your local store for specific timings.
Home Depot: Open from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
Lowe's: Open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Ace Hardware: Hours vary due to independent ownership; check with your local store.
REI: Open from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Best Buy and Big Lots: Open from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Sephora: Hours vary by location and mall hours; use their store locator for specifics.
IKEA: Closed.
Staples: Open with regular Sunday hours; check the Staples store locator.
Office Depot and OfficeMax: Open from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
PetSmart: Open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Petco: Open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Tractor Supply Co.: Open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Remember that mall hours may also impact store hours, so always double-check before you head out shopping.

New Year's Day Superstitions Around the World

While many are focused on shopping and errands, others are concerned with New Year's superstitions. In some cultures, cleaning on New Year's Day is considered bad luck, potentially cleansing away good fortune for the year. The superstition against washing clothes on New Year's Day is widespread, particularly in China where it's believed that doing laundry could 'wash away a loved one'. Other traditions such as eating twelve grapes in Spain for good luck or smashing plates in Denmark for increased fortune highlight the diverse range of beliefs associated with the first day of the new year. In Brazil, jumping seven waves at midnight is believed to grant wishes. These cultural differences illustrate how varied the perspectives on the new year's day can be.

A Final Note: Planning Ahead Is Key

Regardless of your plans, remember that many stores may have adjusted hours for New Year's Day. It's crucial to check store hours online or by calling ahead to ensure you won't face disappointment. Start 2025 off right – with a plan!