What’s open on New Year’s Day 2026? Walmart, Target, grocery stores, restaurants and more

New Year’s Day is a federal holiday, but that doesn’t mean everything shuts down. On Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026, many major retailers, grocery chains and restaurants will remain open, though some will operate on reduced or modified schedules.

For shoppers planning last-minute errands or families looking for a place to eat, hours can vary widely by chain and by location. Big-box stores, such as Walmart, are expected to operate as usual, while warehouse clubs, including Costco and Sam’s Club, will be closed. Several grocery chains will stay open on New Year’s Day, though some locations may shorten their hours.

Here’s what we know about which major chains are open and which are closed on New Year’s Day.

Grocery stores and big retailers open on New Year’s Day

• Walmart: Walmart stores are expected to be open as usual, according to Today.com. Most locations will operate on their normal schedules.

• Target: Target stores will be open during normal operating hours, per Today.com. Customers should use the store locator to confirm their local store’s hours.

• Big Y: Big Y grocery stores will operate on regular hours on both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, the company says.

• Whole Foods Market: Many Whole Foods locations will be open, the company’s website states, though stores may close earlier than usual. Customers should check the hours of their local store in advance.

• Price Rite: Price Rite stores will also be open, with store-specific hours that may vary by location, according to the company’s website.

Restaurants open on New Year’s Day

• Shake Shack: Shake Shack locations are expected to be open, but some restaurants may operate with reduced hours.

• Wendy’s: According to the company, Wendy’s locations are open, but hours may vary by restaurant. Customers are advised to check with their local restaurant before heading out.

• Waffle House: Waffle House locations are expected to remain open 24 hours, continuing the chain’s long-standing tradition of staying open during holidays.

• Dunkin’: Dunkin’ shops are open, with most locations keeping their regular hours.

• Chick-fil-A: Most Chick-fil-A locations will be open, though customers are advised to check with their local restaurant for specific opening times.

• Cracker Barrel: Most Cracker Barrel restaurants will be open and follow their typical daily hours.

Stores closed on New Year’s Day

• Sam’s Club: Sam’s Club locations will be closed, the company’s website says.

• Trader Joe’s: All Trader Joe’s locations will be closed on Jan. 1, the company announced.