New Year’s Day is here, plans are forming, and yes, plenty is open. I checked what matters for your errands and your downtime. If you are restocking the pantry, grabbing coffee, or plotting a lazy-day project, here is your fast, reliable guide for today.
What’s open, what’s not right now
Today is a federal holiday. That means banks, government offices, the U.S. Postal Service, and the stock markets are closed. ATMs work, but teller windows do not. No regular mail delivery or pickup. UPS and FedEx are running modified holiday services, mostly focused on express and critical shipments. Expect delays on ground.
Big box and grocery stores are open, with caveats. Walmart is open nationwide, with hours set by each location. Target is also open on a holiday schedule. Most grocery chains are operating reduced hours, and many will close early this evening. One big exception stands out. Costco is closed today, across the board.
Pharmacies and essentials are up and running. CVS and Walgreens are open, with reduced or location specific hours. Many offer drive thru windows for quick pickups. Gas stations and convenience stores are open in most areas, though smaller locations may cut hours at night.
Food and coffee are easy wins. Many McDonald’s, Starbucks, and Dunkin’ locations are open on holiday schedules. Franchise hours vary by store, so do a quick check in the app before you go. Independent cafes and bakeries are mixed today, often closed for staff rest.
Common surprises today, even for seasoned planners. Costco is closed. Banks are closed. No regular USPS delivery. Many grocers shut early.
Make your holiday errands work for your hobbies
Use open hours to set up a better week. You can grab fresh produce for a new recipe, a storage bin for that gear closet, or a journal for your 2026 goals. Walmart and Target carry basics for home workouts, quick craft kits, puzzle books, and batteries for that gadget you unboxed last night. If you need a prescription refill, head out earlier than usual. Pharmacy counters often trim evening hours on holidays.
Turn errands into a micro adventure. Walk the long way from the parking lot. Swap the cart for a basket and keep it light. Pair the grocery run with a short nature stop at a nearby park. That ten minute reset pays off when the couch calls.
Check store locators and apps before you leave. Toggle “holiday hours” inside the app, place a pickup order, and turn on notifications for any hour changes.
Here is a quick method that saves time and trips.
- Search the exact store in its official app, not a map screenshot.
- Tap the location page, then look for “holiday hours” or “special hours.”
- If it is a close call near closing time, place a small curbside order. It locks the pickup window.
Eat, sip, and keep it cozy
A low key food plan fits today’s mood. Start with a coffee stop, then a slow breakfast at home. Many Starbucks and Dunkin’ shops open in the morning, then close early. Expect reduced menu items at smaller stores. If you are meeting friends, aim for off peak windows. Late morning and early evening tend to spike.
Fast food is a safe bet, but check inside versus drive thru hours. Dining rooms often close earlier. If you crave a sit down spot, call ahead. Some local restaurants give their teams the day off, even if the chain down the block is open.
Plan the rest around comfort. Pick up broth and noodles for easy ramen. Grab a fresh loaf and good butter. Set the table for a board game or a puzzle session. That simple ritual turns a long afternoon into something you will remember.
Getting around, plus deliveries and transit
Public transit is on Sunday or holiday schedules in many cities. Trains and buses run less often. Plan for longer waits and earlier last trips. Rideshare prices usually lift around brunch and dinner, especially near entertainment districts. If you can, walk a few blocks before you hail a car. It often lowers the fare and saves time.
Package expectations should stay low today. USPS is paused, with no retail counters open. UPS and FedEx are limited, so doorbells will be quieter. If you need to send something, prep the label now and drop it tomorrow. You will beat the morning rush.
Most city transit systems publish live updates on holiday schedules. Check the official app before you leave and save your route.
- Quick checks before you go
- Confirm holiday hours in the store’s own app
- Look for early pharmacy closings
- Expect franchise by franchise decisions for restaurants
- Plan a backup stop within five minutes of your first choice
Conclusion: Today rewards the planner, and the wanderer. Stock what you need, then follow your curiosity. Grab coffee, take a stroll, cook something simple, and set up a hobby you will stick with. With a little checking, New Year’s Day opens up, and it feels good to begin.
