New Year’s Eve on December 31, 2025, is one of the busiest and most fast-paced days in the United States. As people prepare to say goodbye to 2025 and welcome 2026, millions rush to complete last-minute shopping, banking, mailing, and travel arrangements. While December 31 is not a federal holiday, many businesses across the country operate on reduced or modified hours, which can easily lead to confusion.
To help you plan your day smoothly, this detailed guide explains what’s open and what may close early on New Year’s Eve 2025, covering retail stores, grocery chains, banks, stock markets, post offices, delivery services, and essential utilities.
Is New Year’s Eve a Holiday in the United States?
No, New Year’s Eve (December 31) is not an official federal holiday in the United States. This means:
- Government offices generally remain open
- Banks, stores, and services typically operate
- Employees are not legally entitled to a day off
However, many businesses choose to close early, especially in the afternoon or evening, allowing employees to celebrate with family and friends. Because of this, hours can vary widely depending on location, company policy, and local demand.
Stores Open on New Year’s Eve 2025
Most major retailers remain open on December 31, but early closures are common. Below is what shoppers can expect from popular U.S. retail chains.
Major Retail Chains
- Walmart: Walmart stores are typically open all day on New Year’s Eve, often from early morning until late night. Some departments, such as pharmacies and vision centers, may close earlier than the main store.
- Target: Target locations are generally open on December 31 but many stores close earlier than usual, often around 8 or 9 p.m.
- Costco: Costco warehouses are open on New Year’s Eve but usually close early, often between 5 p.m. and 6 p.m. Costco is closed on New Year’s Day.
- Aldi & Trader Joe’s: These grocery-focused chains operate on reduced hours. Most locations close by early evening, typically between 5 p.m. and 7 p.m.
- CVS & Walgreens: Many locations remain open, including 24-hour stores. However, pharmacy counters may close earlier than the retail section.
Grocery Stores on New Year’s Eve
Grocery shopping peaks on December 31 due to party preparations and holiday meals. Fortunately, most grocery stores stay open.
- Walmart Supercenters: Open with extended hours
- Kroger: Generally operates regular hours
- Publix: Often closes early, around 9 p.m.
- Whole Foods: Usually open with reduced evening hours
Some stores remain open late, while others shorten their schedules significantly. Shopping earlier in the day is strongly recommended.
Are Banks Open on New Year’s Eve 2025?
Yes, banks in the United States are open on New Year’s Eve, since it is not a federal holiday. That said:
- Many bank branches close earlier than usual
- Afternoon hours may be shortened
- Lobby access may end before drive-through services
While physical branches may close early, ATMs, online banking, and mobile apps function normally throughout the day and night. On New Year’s Day (January 1, 2026), banks are closed nationwide.
Stock Market Hours on December 31
The U.S. stock market operates on New Year’s Eve but follows a shortened trading session.
- New York Stock Exchange
- Nasdaq
Both exchanges typically close early at 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time on December 31. This early closure is crucial for investors, traders, and financial institutions making year-end transactions or portfolio adjustments.
Post Office & Mail Services
USPS (United States Postal Service)
- United States Postal Service operates normally on New Year’s Eve
- Regular mail is delivered and collected
- Post offices remain open with standard hours in most locations
On New Year’s Day, USPS offices are closed, and regular mail delivery is suspended (except Priority Mail Express).
UPS, FedEx & Package Delivery Services
Shipping companies adjust schedules during the New Year holiday period.
- UPS
- New Year’s Eve: Limited services; mostly air and international deliveries
- New Year’s Day: Only UPS Express Critical operates
- FedEx
- New Year’s Eve: Pickup and delivery available, but FedEx Office locations may close early
- New Year’s Day: Only FedEx Custom Critical operates
If shipping is time-sensitive, it’s best to send packages earlier in the week.
Government Offices & Public Services
Since December 31 is not a federal holiday:
- Most government offices remain open
- Courts generally operate on normal schedules
- Public utilities continue without interruption
However, some state and local offices may choose early closures. Always verify with your local municipality.
Garbage Collection & City Services
Garbage pickup and recycling schedules usually remain unchanged on New Year’s Eve. That said, some cities adjust routes or shift collection days around the holiday. Residents should check city websites or local announcements.
Transportation & Travel Services
- Airports operate normally but may be crowded
- Public transportation usually follows weekday schedules
- Ride-share demand increases significantly in the evening
Travelers should expect heavier traffic, longer wait times, and higher fares as midnight approaches.
Why Planning Ahead Matters on December 31
Even though New Year’s Eve is a regular working day, the combination of:
- Early business closures
- Increased customer traffic
- Limited staffing
- Holiday fatigue
Can make errands stressful if left until the last minute.
Smart Planning Tips
- Complete shopping and banking before the afternoon
- Check local store and branch hours online
- Use digital banking and delivery services when possible
- Avoid peak evening hours unless necessary
What to Expect as 2026 Begins
New Year’s Eve functions as a hybrid day—part regular business day, part holiday transition. Most essential services remain available, but reduced hours are the norm rather than the exception. Understanding these changes ensures you can welcome 2026 stress-free, without unexpected closures or delays. Retail stores, grocery chains, banks, post offices, and markets generally operate on December 31, but many close early. Planning ahead, checking local hours, and finishing errands early in the day are the keys to avoiding frustration.
