What every chain does on New Year's Day
| Chain | Store | Pharmacy |
|---|---|---|
| CVS | Sunday hours observed | Sunday pharmacy hours observed |
| Walgreens | Sunday hours observed | Sunday pharmacy hours observed |
| Rite Aid | Sunday hours observed | Sunday pharmacy hours observed |
| Walmart Pharmacy | Regular Supercenter hours, 6:00am–11:00pm | Pharmacy reduced hours, typically 10:00am–6:00pm |
| Costco Pharmacy | Closed | Closed |
| Kroger Pharmacy | Reduced hours, typically 9:00am–6:00pm | Reduced hours, typically 10:00am–5:00pm |
| Publix Pharmacy | Reduced hours, typically 9:00am–6:00pm | Reduced hours, typically 10:00am–5:00pm |
Why New Year's Day pharmacy hours change
New Year's Day is a partial closure day. Most chains operate on Sunday or shortened holiday hours; pharmacy counters typically open later and close earlier than the front store. Chain pharmacies build their holiday calendar around two factors: federal holiday observance for staffing premiums, and corporate policy on which holidays the entire workforce gets the day off. Costco, Publix, and Walmart all close on the largest closure holidays out of corporate policy. CVS and Walgreens keep their 24-hour pharmacies open year-round, which is why those two chains dominate the "open on Christmas" search results in major metros.
Holiday hours rarely match the front-store hours one-to-one. Even when the store is open, the pharmacy counter requires a licensed pharmacist on duty, and that staffing is the most expensive line item to fill on a holiday. Expect the pharmacy counter to open later and close earlier than the front store on every holiday this site covers.
New Year's Day prescription pickup tips
- Refill 48 hours ahead. Holiday week always runs slow.
- Check the chain app for your specific store's holiday status — chain-wide policies don't always apply to franchised or licensed locations.
- Identify your nearest 24-hour pharmacy in advance: Walgreens 24-hour, CVS 24-hour.
- If your prescription is at a closed chain, any open pharmacy can transfer it in minutes.