New Year’s 2026: Is the Stock Market Open or Closed?

New Year’s Eve & New Year’s Day 2026: What’s Open and What’s Closed

The end of the year is always a busy time—people are shopping, planning celebrations, or trying to wrap up work before the new year begins. If you’re wondering what will be open or closed on New Year’s Eve (Dec. 31) and New Year’s Day (Jan. 1) 2026, this guide covers everything from stock markets to mail delivery, banks, and stores.

Stock Market Hours for the Holidays

For investors and traders, knowing the holiday trading schedule is essential:

• New Year’s Eve (Dec. 31): The New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and Nasdaq will operate under normal trading hours. You can buy and sell stocks as usual.

• Bond Markets: Expect early closure at 2 p.m. ET on New Year’s Eve.

• New Year’s Day (Jan. 1): All major U.S. stock and bond markets will be closed. Trading resumes on January 2.

💡 Pro Tip: If you plan to trade stocks or bonds around the holidays, make sure to complete your transactions before markets close early on Dec. 31.

Mail and Delivery Services During the Holidays

Mail and delivery schedules also change during the holidays:

• U.S. Postal Service (USPS):

  • December 31: Mail delivery as usual.

  • January 1: Most mail is not delivered, except for Priority Mail Express. Local post offices will be closed.

• Courier Services (FedEx, UPS, DHL):

  • December 31: Limited service is available.

  • January 1: Only emergency or express shipments may be delivered.

📦 Pro Tip: If you’re expecting packages or letters, plan ahead to avoid delays during the New Year holiday.

Banks and Government Office Schedules

Most banks and government offices follow a holiday schedule:

• New Year’s Eve: Some offices may close early.

• New Year’s Day: All federal and state offices, as well as most banks, are closed.

This includes DMV offices, licensing centers, and municipal services. Using online banking or e-government services is a smart way to avoid delays.

Retail Stores and Supermarket Hours

Retailers and supermarkets may stay open during the holidays, but hours vary:

• New Year’s Eve: Many stores operate as usual or close slightly early.

• New Year’s Day: Some stores, including major grocery chains and big-box retailers, may have limited hours or be closed entirely.

🛒 Pro Tip: Check store websites or call ahead to confirm holiday hours, especially if you’re shopping on New Year’s Eve or Day.

Quick Reference Table: Holiday Hours

Service	New Year’s Eve (Dec. 31)	New Year’s Day (Jan. 1)
NYSE & Nasdaq	Open	Closed
Bond Markets	Early Close 2 p.m.	Closed
USPS Mail	Delivered	Closed (Priority Mail Express only)
Banks & Government Offices	Some may close early	Closed
Retail & Supermarkets	Open (hours may vary)	Some closed or limited hours
Courier Services	Limited	Emergency/Express only

Planning Tips for a Smooth Holiday

1. Check online services: Many tasks, from banking to shopping, can be done online even when physical locations are closed.

2. Prepare deliveries early: Send gifts or important documents before Dec. 31 to avoid delays.

3. Adjust financial transactions: Complete stock trades or banking needs before the early market closures and office closures.

4. Confirm store hours: Avoid surprises by checking store websites before heading out.

Ending the year smoothly requires a little planning, but knowing what’s open and closed can save time and reduce stress. Whether you’re investing, mailing packages, or doing last-minute shopping, this guide ensures you’re prepared for the New Year holidays.