As New Year’s Eve approaches, many retailers are closing up shop early, leaving procrastinating party hosts racing against the clock to grab last-minute supplies.
Popular chains like Target, Costco, and Sam’s Club will shut their doors between 5PM and 9PM on December 31st, forcing those waiting until the final hours to adjust their shopping schedules. Even pharmacies aren’t immune – some CVS and Walgreens locations may have reduced hours.
“I waited until the last minute to get snacks and decorations, and now I’m stressed trying to find stores still open,” said Michelle Smith, a Houston resident planning a small New Year’s Eve gathering. “I wish I had checked hours earlier so I could have shopped sooner.”
The limited store operations are leaving many frustrated as they scramble for sparkling cider, plasticware, and other provisions needed to ring in 2023. Some are turning to 24-hour convenience stores like 7-Eleven to fill gaps, while others are placing online grocery orders for delivery ahead of midnight celebrations.
Retail analysts recommend checking local store hours in advance and planning ahead for one of the biggest at-home party nights of the year. “You don’t want to get caught off guard by shortened operations on December 31st,” said industry expert Nathan Klein. “Know what’s open when so you can avoid the pre-party panic.”
Most national retailers are set to resume regular hours on New Year’s Day, giving shoppers a fresh start to 2023. But what are the specifics? Here’s a breakdown of major store hours for New Year’s Eve:
Walmart – Regular hours at most locations Target – Closing at 9PM Costco – Open 8:30AM – 5PM CVS – Most open regular hours, some may have reduced hours Walgreens – Regular hours, but pharmacy hours may vary
Other Grocery, Convenience & Retail Store Hours:
- Albertsons – Regular hours, pharmacy hours may vary
- Aldi – Limited hours
- Home Depot – 6AM – 6PM
- IKEA – 10AM – 6PM
- Jewel-Osco – Reduced hours
- Kroger – Closing early at most locations
- Lowe’s – Closing at 6PM
- Macy’s – 10AM – 7PM
- Meijer – 6AM – Midnight
- Rite Aid – Regular hours
- Sam’s Club – Closing at 6PM
- Safeway – Regular hours, pharmacy hours may vary
- 7-Eleven – Most open 24/7, some may vary
- Trader Joe’s – Closing at 5PM
Experts recommend calling specific locations to confirm hours as some variance can occur regionally. Also check retailer websites or social media for up-to-date holiday schedules.
Whether you’re an early bird or last-minute planner, adjust your NYE shopping accordingly and avoid getting caught by surprise. A little preparation goes a long way towards a stress-free celebration.
