As the United States prepares to welcome 2026, the public holiday on Thursday 1st January will see a clear split between commercial activity and public services. While government offices, schools, and financial institutions shutter their doors, a significant number of major retailers plan to open, many with enticing discounts to shift older stock.
Public Services and Financial Markets Closed
All federal and state government buildings, including post offices and courts, will be closed for New Year's Day. Similarly, public and private schools across the nation will not be in session. The financial sector observes the holiday, with banks and US stock markets closed on Thursday. Normal operations for banks and markets are set to resume on Friday 2nd January.
Package delivery services will also be largely suspended. Both FedEx and UPS have confirmed that their standard pickup and delivery services will not run on the holiday. However, some limited critical services may be available at specific locations, so customers are advised to check directly with their local depot for precise information.
Retailers Open with Potential for Bargains
In contrast to the public sector, the commercial landscape will be bustling. Numerous leading high-street and pharmacy chains have confirmed they will be trading on 1st January. Walmart, Target, Macy's, and Kohl's have all stated their stores will be open, though they universally caution that operating hours may be modified for the day.
The pharmacy sector shows similar patterns. Both CVS and Walgreens have indicated their stores will be open, but again, with the strong possibility of altered schedules. For CVS, pharmacy hours may differ from store hours, and Walgreens advises customers to verify directly whether their in-store pharmacy will be operational.
Grocery Stores and Notable Exceptions
The majority of national supermarket chains, including Albertsons, Whole Foods, Kroger, and Aldi, are expected to open their doors, albeit potentially with reduced hours. It is common for in-store pharmacies within these grocery outlets to close for the holiday.
However, shoppers should note two prominent exceptions. Both Trader Joe's and Costco have confirmed they will remain closed for New Year's Day 2026, giving their staff the full public holiday.
The widespread decision by retailers to stay open is strategically timed. Many are offering discounts on older inventory to clear shelf space for new product lines arriving in the new year, presenting an opportunity for bargain hunters post-Christmas.
Always Check Before You Travel
The most crucial advice for consumers is to confirm local arrangements. Operating hours can vary significantly depending on the store's location, even within the same retail chain. To avoid a wasted journey, the recommendation is to consult your local store's website for its specific holiday schedule, call ahead directly, or use online store locators which often list detailed holiday trading hours.
