Shoppers and travellers across the United States are navigating adjusted business hours this holiday season as major retailers, supermarkets and convenience outlets prepare for two key dates — Dec. 26 (the day after Christmas) and Jan. 1 (New Year's Day 2026). With Christmas closures giving way to post‑holiday openings and a federal holiday on New Year's Day, understanding operating schedules is crucial for those planning errands, grocery runs, or leisure shopping.
After closing on Christmas Day, many major retailers resumed operations Friday with regular or slightly modified business hours. Walmart, which closed its more than 4,600 U.S. stores on Christmas, reopened on Dec. 26, typically from early morning onward. Target locations reopened at around 7 a.m. Friday. Grocery chains including Kroger and other major supermarket banners resumed normal service on December 26 as well. Convenience stores such as 7‑Eleven and other 24‑hour outlets remained open, providing essential access throughout the holiday period.
Pharmacies like Walgreens and CVS Health continued to operate on December 26, though in some cases with pharmacy counters running on reduced schedules. While big‑box warehouses like Costco typically close fully on Christmas Day, they too reopened Friday, giving shoppers an opportunity to pick up essentials and take advantage of year‑end deals.
As the calendar turns to New Year's Day on Jan. 1, a federal holiday, many stores remain open though with altered or limited hours. Retail giants such as Walmart and Target are expected to operate at or near their usual schedules, making them reliable options for customers needing to shop on New Year's Day. Several department and big‑box stores are also open, including Home Depot and Lowe's, providing services for last‑minute projects or returns. Grocery options such as Publix, Albertsons, Kroger and Whole Foods Market will generally be open on Jan. 1, though hours may vary by location and should be confirmed ahead of visits.
Not all businesses remain open on New Year's Day; for example, warehouse club chains such as Costco and Sam's Club are typically closed on the holiday itself. Banking, postal services, and government offices observe the federal holiday and remain closed.
Holiday shoppers are advised to check individual store locators or apps for specific hours in their area, as hours can vary significantly between locations and states. With convenience stores and essential services maintaining broad coverage throughout the season, customers still have plenty of options for errands and purchases during these prime holiday travel and shopping periods.
