If you’re planning meals, hosting guests, or restocking essentials, knowing what grocery stores are open on New Year’s Day can save time and stress. New Year’s Day 2026 falls on Thursday, January 1, and while it is a federal holiday, many grocery stores across the United States remain open to serve customers. However, hours often vary by chain, location, and region, making advance planning important.
This guide provides a clear, accurate picture of grocery store operations on New Year’s Day 2026, based only on confirmed information available today. It is written for U.S. shoppers who want reliable answers without confusion, speculation, or outdated details.
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Why Grocery Store Hours Matter on New Year’s Day
New Year’s Day marks the official start of the calendar year and is widely observed across the country. Banks, post offices, and many government offices close, but grocery stores operate under different rules. Food retailers understand that customers still need access to fresh food, beverages, and household essentials, especially after holiday celebrations.
Because of this demand, most national grocery chains choose to stay open on New Year’s Day, often with reduced or holiday-specific hours. Understanding these patterns helps shoppers avoid unnecessary trips to closed stores and plan their day efficiently.
Major Grocery Stores Open on New Year’s Day
Many of the largest and most recognizable grocery chains in the U.S. are open on January 1, 2026. While exact hours vary by location, the following stores are confirmed to be operating on New Year’s Day, typically with reduced or modified schedules.
Large National and Regional Supermarkets
Kroger and Kroger-Owned Stores
Kroger locations, along with affiliated banners such as Ralphs, Fry’s, Harris Teeter, Fred Meyer, and King Soopers, are open on New Year’s Day. Most stores operate on regular or slightly reduced hours, depending on location.
Albertsons Family of Stores
Albertsons, Safeway, Vons, Jewel-Osco, Shaw’s, and other affiliated chains are open on New Year’s Day. Many locations follow holiday hours, which may include earlier closing times.
Publix
Publix stores are open on New Year’s Day with adjusted hours. In many regions, stores close earlier in the evening compared to a normal weekday.
Winn-Dixie
Winn-Dixie grocery stores generally remain open on New Year’s Day and often maintain standard business hours.
H-E-B
H-E-B stores are open on New Year’s Day. Some locations may operate on modified schedules, but customers can expect access to essential groceries throughout the day.
Sprouts Farmers Market
Sprouts locations are open on New Year’s Day, often operating on regular daily schedules.
Whole Foods Market
Whole Foods stores are open on New Year’s Day, usually with holiday or Sunday-style hours that may include earlier closing times.
Big-Box Retailers With Grocery Sections
In addition to traditional supermarkets, many big-box retailers that sell groceries remain open on New Year’s Day.
Walmart
Walmart Supercenters and Neighborhood Markets are open on New Year’s Day. Most locations operate close to regular hours, making Walmart one of the most reliable options for grocery shopping on January 1.
Target
Target stores are open on New Year’s Day, including locations with full grocery sections. Hours vary by store and region, so checking local schedules is recommended.
Wholesale Clubs and Discount Grocery Stores
Not all warehouse-style retailers follow the same schedule on New Year’s Day.
BJ’s Wholesale Club
BJ’s Wholesale Club locations are open on New Year’s Day, though hours are typically reduced compared to normal days. Gas stations at BJ’s locations are also generally open.
Costco
Costco warehouses are closed on New Year’s Day nationwide. This closure applies to all U.S. locations.
Sam’s Club
Sam’s Club locations are closed on New Year’s Day, consistent with the company’s holiday schedule.
Grocery Stores Closed on New Year’s Day
While many grocery stores remain open, a few well-known chains close entirely on January 1.
Trader Joe’s
Trader Joe’s stores are closed on New Year’s Day. The chain traditionally closes for the full day to observe the holiday.
Aldi
Aldi grocery stores are closed on New Year’s Day across the United States.
These closures are consistent nationwide and apply to all store locations.
Convenience Stores and Small Markets
If you only need a few items, convenience stores and small neighborhood markets are among the most dependable options on New Year’s Day.
Gas Station Convenience Stores
Most gas station convenience stores operate on New Year’s Day, and many remain open 24 hours. These stores are ideal for quick purchases such as milk, bread, snacks, beverages, and basic pantry items.
Dollar Stores and Local Markets
Many dollar stores and independently owned neighborhood markets stay open on New Year’s Day, though hours may be shorter than usual.
Pharmacy Hours Inside Grocery Stores
Even when grocery stores are open, pharmacy departments often follow separate holiday schedules.
- Pharmacy counters may open later or close earlier than the main store.
- Some pharmacy departments close entirely while the grocery section remains open.
- Retail pharmacies located inside grocery or big-box stores may operate on limited hours.
Shoppers who need prescription services should check their local pharmacy schedule in advance.
How to Plan Grocery Shopping on New Year’s Day
Shopping on January 1 can be smooth and efficient with a little preparation.
Check Local Store Hours
Holiday schedules vary by location. Store websites, mobile apps, and in-store signage typically display New Year’s Day hours ahead of time.
Shop Earlier in the Day
Many stores shorten their hours on New Year’s Day. Shopping in the morning or early afternoon increases the chance of full inventory and open service counters.
Expect Limited Services
Bakery, deli, seafood, and prepared-food departments may operate with reduced staffing or limited selections.
Use Backup Options
If your primary grocery store is closed, convenience stores, Walmart, or Target often provide reliable alternatives.
Common Questions Shoppers Ask
Are grocery stores busier on New Year’s Day?
Traffic is often moderate. Many shoppers go out later in the day, especially after morning holiday activities.
Do grocery delivery services operate on New Year’s Day?
Many delivery and pickup services operate with limited availability, depending on the store and region.
Are alcohol sales allowed on New Year’s Day?
Alcohol sales depend on state and local laws. Some states restrict sales on certain holidays, while others allow normal sales.
What This Means for U.S. Shoppers
For most Americans, access to groceries on New Year’s Day 2026 will not be a problem. The majority of national grocery chains, big-box retailers, and convenience stores remain open, though often with reduced hours. The main exceptions are warehouse clubs and select specialty grocery chains that close for the holiday.
Understanding these patterns ensures you can plan meals, host gatherings, and start the year without unnecessary inconvenience.
Share your experience or tell us which grocery stores were open in your area to help other readers plan their New Year’s Day shopping.