As Americans prepare to celebrate the arrival of 2026, many shoppers are wondering — is Walmart open on New Year’s Day? The answer is yes. Walmart stores across the United States will be open on Wednesday, January 1, 2026. The retail giant will operate under its regular schedule, giving customers access to groceries, essentials, and post-holiday deals as the new year begins.
With millions of people relying on Walmart for everything from last-minute party items to home essentials, the company’s consistent holiday schedule makes it a convenient choice for early-year shopping.
Table of Contents
Walmart’s 2026 New Year’s Day Schedule
Walmart has confirmed that all of its U.S. stores will be open on New Year’s Day, Wednesday, January 1, 2026, with regular operating hours. Most stores will open at 6 a.m. and close at 11 p.m., though hours may vary slightly based on location.
Unlike other major retailers that close on New Year’s Day — such as Costco and Sam’s Club — Walmart traditionally remains open, making it one of the most accessible options for shoppers during the holiday.
Walmart’s pharmacies, vision centers, and Auto Care Centers will also be open, though these departments may follow modified schedules depending on staffing and local demand. Shoppers are encouraged to check store-specific hours online or via the Walmart app before visiting.
Why Walmart Stays Open on Major Holidays
Walmart’s decision to remain open on New Year’s Day continues its long-standing tradition of offering convenience to customers who need access to groceries, household supplies, and other essentials during the holidays.
While some retailers use the first day of the year to give employees time off, Walmart balances its holiday schedule to meet customer demand while providing flexible staffing options. Many shoppers appreciate the consistency, knowing they can rely on the store for last-minute purchases or restocking after celebrations.
This approach reflects Walmart’s broader strategy to stay available during peak shopping periods. In previous years, the retailer has maintained similar hours on holidays like Memorial Day and Labor Day, emphasizing service and accessibility.
Departments and Services Open on New Year’s Day
Nearly every department inside Walmart will be open on January 1. That includes:
- Grocery: Fully stocked with fresh produce, meat, dairy, and bakery items.
- Pharmacy: Most pharmacies will open at 9 a.m. and close early, typically by 6 p.m.
- Auto Care Centers: Open with reduced hours for oil changes and basic maintenance.
- Vision Centers: Operating under adjusted hours, depending on location.
- Customer Service Desks: Open for returns, exchanges, and assistance.
Customers can also use Walmart Pickup and Delivery services throughout the holiday, though delivery slots may fill quickly due to high demand. Online orders and curbside pickup will operate as normal, making it easy to avoid crowds while still completing necessary shopping.
Post-Holiday Deals and Clearance Sales
For bargain hunters, New Year’s Day is one of the best times to shop at Walmart. The retailer uses the start of January to roll out clearance sales on leftover holiday merchandise, electronics, toys, and seasonal décor.
Shoppers can expect discounts on:
- Holiday decorations and wrapping supplies
- Winter apparel and outerwear
- Toys and games from the holiday rush
- Electronics, TVs, and small appliances
- Fitness gear and home organization products
These markdowns are part of Walmart’s annual post-holiday clearance strategy, designed to make room for spring inventory. Many stores also introduce “New Year, New You” promotions featuring health, fitness, and home improvement products.
Grocery and Household Essentials for the New Year
If your pantry is running low after the holidays, Walmart will have everything you need to restock. The grocery aisles are expected to be fully replenished with fresh produce, meats, beverages, and snacks.
Customers can also find deals on cleaning products, household items, and storage solutions — popular categories for those starting fresh in the new year.
In addition, Walmart’s home goods section typically features early-year discounts on bedding, home décor, and small appliances, appealing to customers focused on organization and comfort in the new year.
Walmart Pharmacy Hours and Health Services
While Walmart stores will operate their regular hours, most pharmacies will close earlier than the main store. Typical pharmacy hours for New Year’s Day are 9 a.m. to 6 p.m..
Customers needing prescription refills or consultations are advised to plan visits earlier in the day. Pharmacy drive-thru and pickup options will remain available in most locations.
Health-related services — such as immunizations, wellness products, and over-the-counter medicines — will remain in stock, helping customers start the year focused on health and well-being.
Online Shopping and Delivery Options
For those who prefer to skip in-person visits, Walmart’s online store and mobile app will operate as usual on New Year’s Day. Customers can place orders for delivery or curbside pickup throughout the day.
Walmart+ members will continue to enjoy free same-day delivery on eligible items, depending on location and availability. Standard delivery services will also run without interruption, though shipment times for large items may vary based on carrier schedules.
This ensures that customers can take advantage of post-holiday deals from the comfort of their homes while avoiding the crowds that typically fill stores on the first day of the year.
Other Major Retailers’ New Year’s Day Plans
While Walmart remains open, many other retailers will operate under modified hours or close entirely on January 1.
Here’s how some of Walmart’s competitors are handling the holiday:
- Target: Open with reduced hours, typically from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Kroger and Albertsons: Open, though hours vary by location.
- Costco: Closed nationwide.
- Sam’s Club: Closed for the day.
- Trader Joe’s: Closed on New Year’s Day.
- CVS and Walgreens: Open, though pharmacy hours may be reduced.
Walmart’s decision to remain open gives it a competitive edge among major retailers, ensuring customers have convenient access to both groceries and general merchandise on one of the first shopping days of the year.
Tips for Shopping at Walmart on New Year’s Day
To make the most of your New Year’s Day shopping trip, keep a few simple tips in mind:
- Shop early in the day. Morning hours are usually less crowded.
- Check your store’s app. Local hours can differ slightly depending on region.
- Take advantage of mobile checkout. Walmart’s self-checkout and app-based payment tools can speed up lines.
- Plan for sales. Clearance sections fill quickly, especially for toys, clothing, and electronics.
- Use pickup or delivery. Save time by ordering through Walmart’s online platform.
Being prepared can make your shopping experience faster and more enjoyable, especially during one of the busiest retail weekends of the year.
Why Walmart Remains a New Year’s Shopping Favorite
For millions of Americans, Walmart has become a reliable destination during the holidays. Whether it’s for last-minute supplies, budget-friendly groceries, or major sales, the retailer’s commitment to staying open has earned it loyal shoppers.
The company’s vast selection, extended hours, and accessibility — with stores in nearly every U.S. community — make it a natural choice for New Year’s Day errands.
Walmart’s seamless combination of in-store and online options also makes it convenient for families balancing celebrations with everyday needs. It’s one of the few retailers where customers can pick up food, clothing, electronics, and cleaning products in one trip.
Community and Employee Focus
While Walmart stays open for customers, the company also provides flexibility for its employees during the holidays. Many workers are offered adjusted schedules, premium pay options, or opportunities to take additional time off after the busy Christmas season.
The retailer has emphasized that remaining open on New Year’s Day is not just about business — it’s about serving communities that rely on the store for essentials year-round.
Walmart’s presence in both rural and urban areas ensures that even those in smaller towns have access to affordable goods on holidays when other stores may be closed.
The Bottom Line
So, if you’re wondering is Walmart open on New Year’s Day, the answer is yes — every Walmart location across the U.S. will open its doors on January 1, 2026. Shoppers can expect regular hours, stocked shelves, and plenty of post-holiday deals to start the year on a high note.
Whether you’re grabbing groceries, taking advantage of sales, or just restocking after a busy December, Walmart remains open and ready to serve as the clock turns to 2026.
Walmart is open and ready to welcome shoppers nationwide on New Year’s Day. Will you be hitting the aisles for deals or stocking up for the week? Share your plans below!