What's open, what's closed on New Year's Day across Long Island

Thursday, New Year's Day, is a federal holiday, and that means banks and post offices will be closed. 

But pretty much everything else will be open to allow you to celebrate the arrival of 2026, bid farewell to 2025 — or both.

Here's what's open and closed across Long Island and in New York City Thursday: 

What's closed

Post offices, banks, the stock and bond markets are closed Thursday, along with schools across the region and local, state and federal government offices.

What's open

Virtually all large retailers, grocery stores, drugstores, conveniences stores and many restaurants, especially chain outlets, will be open. Many, though, will have limited hours; it's best to call ahead .

For example, CVS and Walgreens announced their stores will be open with shortened hours New Year's Day. 

Many Long Island grocery store chains will be open, including locations of Uncle Giuseppe's and ShopRite, representatives said. Some stores may also open later and close earlier. Aldi and Trader Joe's stores will be closed on New Year's Day, however, those companies announced.

Big box stores, including Walmart and Target, will be open. In general, Long Island's shopping malls and movie theaters will also keep their doors open. 

Unlike Christmas, many restaurants across the Island and in New York City will welcome patrons on New Year's Day. Fast-food and restaurant chains are generally open both days.

In all cases, it's best to call ahead for business hours.

Long Island Rail Road

The Long Island Rail Road will run on a weekend schedule Thursday. Alcohol will not be allowed on LIRR trains or at stations through noon Thursday, the railroad said.