Are banks open on New Year's Eve? Here's what's open and closed in the US

As Americans prepare to say goodbye to 2025 and welcome 2026, many are squeezing in last-minute errands. From grocery shopping to mailing packages or stopping by the bank, holiday hours can quickly get confusing. New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day bring a mix of closures, early hours, and limited services across the country.

New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day bring mixed hours across grocery stores, banks, post offices, and delivery services. Planning ahead can help avoid last-minute holiday hassles. With so many businesses operating on modified schedules, checking hours before heading out can save time and frustration.

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Which grocery stores are open on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day?

Grocery store hours vary widely as the year comes to a close. Some major chains stay open with regular hours, while others close early or shut their doors completely on New Year’s Day, as per a report by Knox News.

Walmart remains one of the most reliable options. Stores will be open on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, generally operating from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. This makes it a popular stop for forgotten ingredients or last-minute party needs.

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Target will close earlier on New Year’s Eve, shutting doors at 9 p.m., but will reopen on New Year’s Day with regular hours. Most Knoxville-area locations are expected to operate from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Kroger keeps things simple, remaining open during regular operating hours on both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, as per a report by Knox News.

Publix locations will close early at 9 p.m. on Dec. 31, and also close early on New Year’s Day at 7 p.m.

Whole Foods will be open 8 a.m. to 9 p.m. on New Year’s Eve, and 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. on New Year’s Day.

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Some stores will not open on Jan. 1 at all. Aldi, Costco, Sam’s Club, Trader Joe’s, Save A Lot, and Butler & Bailey Market will all be closed on New Year’s Day, though most are open with limited hours on Dec. 31.

Which stores close early or shut down completely?

Several grocery chains adjust hours significantly for the holiday.

Costco will close early on New Year’s Eve, operating from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and will be closed on Jan. 1, as per a report by Knox News.

Sam’s Club will close at 8 p.m. on Dec. 31 for Club an Plus members and remain closed on New Year’s Day, as per a report by Knox News.

Trader Joe’s will close at 5 p.m. on New Year’s Eve and will not open on Jan. 1.

Aldi closes at 7 p.m. on Dec. 31 and stays closed on New Year’s Day.

Local markets also vary. Three Rivers Market will be open 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Dec. 31, and noon to 8 p.m. on New Year’s Day.

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Are banks open on New Year’s Eve?

Banks and post offices are generally open on New Year’s Eve, though some banks may close early. Customers are encouraged to check directly with their local branch before heading out, as per a report by The Clarion Ledger.

Are post offices open on New Year’s Eve?

On New Year’s Day, banks will be closed nationwide, and post offices will also be closed. Regular mail will not be delivered or picked up on Jan. 1, though Priority Mail Express will still be delivered.

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What about UPS, FedEx, and package delivery on New Year’s Eve?

Shipping services also adjust schedules around the holiday. UPS will deliver only UPS Air and International Air packages on New Year’s Eve. Most UPS Store locations will be open, but with modified hours. On New Year’s Day, UPS will only handle UPS Express Critical service.

FedEx pickup and delivery services will be available on New Year’s Eve, though FedEx Office locations may close early. On Jan. 1, only FedEx Custom Critical service will operate.

Is Walmart open on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day?

Yes. Walmart remains open both days and is a go-to option for last-minute shopping. While the main store stays open late, some departments, such as the pharmacy and vision center, may close earlier than usual. Shoppers are advised to check local store hours to avoid surprises, as per a report by Marca.

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FAQs

Are grocery stores open on New Year’s Eve?

Yes. Most grocery stores are open on Dec. 31, though many close earlier than usual.

Are banks open on New Year’s Day?

No. Banks are closed nationwide on Jan. 1.