The Garden State’s New Year’s Day Guide: What’s Open and What’s Taking a Break in New Jersey
The countdown is almost over, and as we prepare to ring in the New Year, one common question always pops up: what exactly is open on January 1st? Whether you need to run out for a last minute ingredient for your holiday meal or you just want to know if the trains are running on time, a little planning can save you a whole lot of headache.
New Year’s Day is a federal and state holiday in New Jersey, which means many services and offices will take the day off. Here is your essential guide to what will be open, closed, or operating on an adjusted schedule across the Garden State this New Year’s Day.
The Long List of Closures
The biggest rule of thumb for New Year’s Day is that any public office is likely closed. All federal and New Jersey state government offices will be shut down for the holiday. This includes all state courts and local municipal services, like the City Halls in places such as Newark. If you had plans to deal with a motor vehicle transaction or local permit application, you will definitely need to wait until the offices reopen.
The financial world also hits the brakes. Since New Year’s Day is a federal holiday observed by the Federal Reserve, you can expect all traditional banks to be closed, so make sure any in-person banking is done beforehand. Don’t worry, though; ATMs and mobile banking apps will remain fully operational. The same rule applies to the United States Postal Service. All local post offices will be closed, and there will be no regular mail delivery, though Priority Mail Express may be delivered in select locations.
Getting Around the Garden State
If your New Year’s plans involve travel, be prepared for adjusted schedules on NJ Transit. On January 1st, most rail service will operate on a weekend or major holiday schedule after 6:30 a.m. Most bus routes will follow a Saturday or Sunday schedule, so plan for longer wait times and less frequent service than a normal weekday. Light Rail services will also be operating on holiday schedules, specifically a Saturday/Holiday schedule for the Newark Light Rail and a Sunday/Holiday schedule for the Hudson-Bergen Light Rail and River Line. Always check the official NJ Transit website for your specific route before heading out.
Retail and Essential Services: What Stays Open?
Good news for those who need to stock up on essentials or want to get an early start on using those gift cards. Many major retail stores are choosing to remain open for the holiday. Walmart and Target, for example, are expected to operate on their normal business hours.
When it comes to groceries, things get a bit more mixed. Many large chains like Kroger, CVS, Walgreens, and Whole Foods will be open, though some may have reduced hours. However, popular specialty chains like Trader Joe’s, ALDI, Costco, and Sam’s Club are among the retailers that traditionally close their doors for the entire day.
Finally, a quick note on local logistics: keep an eye on your local town’s schedule for garbage and recycling collection. In many municipalities, like Livingston, any Thursday collection will be postponed and picked up on a later day, often Friday, with the rest of the week shifting accordingly. A simple check on your town’s website is the best way to ensure you don’t miss a pickup.
Have a wonderful, safe, and well-planned New Year, New Jersey!