As 2025 draws to a close, shoppers across the United States are gearing up for holiday celebrations and planning their final errands before entering 2026. One of the most frequently asked questions this time of year is:
Whether you’re picking up last-minute gifts, returning items, or browsing the sales, knowing Macy’s holiday schedule can help you avoid disappointment and plan your shopping efficiently. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll break down Macy’s expected hours for both days, how schedules vary by location, tips for preparing ahead, and answers to frequently asked questions.
Overview: Macy’s New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day Hours
| Date | Expected Open Hours | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Eve | 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM (typical) | Most stores close earlier than usual |
| New Year’s Day | Closed or limited hours | Some outlets may open later with shorter hours |
Macy’s New Year’s Eve Hours (December 31, 2025)
Macy’s department stores will generally be open on New Year’s Eve 2025, but with shorter operating hours than on a typical weekday.
Typical Schedule
Most Macy’s stores across the country will operate from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM on New Year’s Eve. Exact times can vary by location especially in major metropolitan areas or flagship locations like Macy’s Herald Square in New York City.
“Holiday schedules are adjusted to provide convenience for shoppers while allowing staff to enjoy time with their families,” a retail scheduling expert explains.
Why Hours Are Shorter?
New Year’s Eve is treated similarly to other major holidays, where retailers close earlier to balance customer demand and employee holiday time. Many customers are planning celebrations or travel, so reduced hours remain standard practice.
Flagship Stores and Special Locations
Flagship stores or Macy’s locations within large shopping centres may have slightly different hours:
- Herald Square (New York City) — usually stays open later than suburban stores, but still closes earlier than normal on New Year’s Eve.
- Outlet Stores — may have varied hours depending on mall holiday operating procedures.
Tip: Always confirm hours with your local Macy’s store before visiting especially if travelling or visiting a flagship location.
Macy’s New Year’s Day Hours (January 1, 2026)
On New Year’s Day (January 1, 2026), most Macy’s stores will be closed or operate on limited hours.
Why Macy’s Is Often Closed?
New Year’s Day is a major holiday, and many department stores, including Macy’s, close to allow employees to observe the holiday and recharge after the busy holiday season. Additionally, foot traffic tends to be lower on the actual holiday than on the days leading up to it.
Limited or Partial Openings
Certain Macy’s stores located within shopping malls or outlet centres may be open with limited hours, typically starting later in the day (e.g., 11:00 AM or noon). However, these hours are exceptions rather than the rule.
If you plan to visit Macy’s on New Year’s Day, it’s best to:
- Check your local store’s holiday hours online
- Call the store directly (most departmental stores list holiday hours on their phone systems)
Why Macy’s Adjusts Holiday Hours?
Retailers like Macy’s alter their schedules during major holidays such as New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day for several reasons:
1. Staff Holiday Considerations
Giving employees time off during major holidays is both a goodwill gesture and a legal requirement in some areas.
2. Customer Patterns
Shopping traffic tends to peak earlier in the holiday season and on the days immediately preceding New Year’s. On the actual holiday, traffic often drops as people focus on celebrations.
3. Operational Efficiency
Reduced hours help manage costs while still offering shoppers the chance to make purchases before and after the holiday.
How Macy’s Holiday Hours Compare to Other Retailers?
| Retailer | New Year’s Eve | New Year’s Day |
|---|---|---|
| Macy’s | Shortened hours (9–6) | Closed or limited hours |
| Target | Normal hours/early close | Limited hours if open |
| Walmart | Normal hours/early close | Limited or normal hours |
| Nordstrom | Shortened hours | Often closed or limited |
| JCPenney | Shortened hours | Closed or limited hours |
Macy’s tends to follow a similar pattern to other major department stores closing earlier on New Year’s Eve and reducing hours on New Year’s Day.
How to Check Macy’s Holiday Hours Near You?
Because Macy’s spans hundreds of locations, holiday hours can vary. Here’s how you can confirm hours before heading out:
1. Visit Macy’s Official Website
Use the Macy’s store locator and holiday hours tool to find the exact schedule for your location.
2. Call Your Local Store
Retail stores often publish special holiday hours on their automated phone systems.
3. Check Shopping Centre Schedules
If the Macy’s you plan to visit is inside a mall, the mall’s holiday hours may affect Macy’s schedule.
4. Follow Macy’s Social Media
Retailers often post special holiday hour announcements on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter.
Holiday Preparations: Tips for Shopping at Macy’s
1. Plan Ahead
Because many locations close earlier, plan your visit in the morning or early afternoon on New Year’s Eve.
2. Make a Shopping List
With limited hours, having a clear list ensures you get everything you need without rushing.
3. Consider Online Shopping
If holiday hours don’t fit your schedule, Macy’s online store remains open 24/7 though shipping times may vary.
4. Check Return Policies
Holiday purchases often come with extended return windows, but it’s best to confirm the details if you’re buying gifts.
“Smart holiday planning means knowing when doors open and close, and prioritizing your shopping early in the day,” says a retail consultant.
Special Events and Sales Around New Year’s
Many Macy’s stores stage holiday clearance sales starting a few days before New Year’s Eve and continuing into the New Year. If you’re shopping for deals, this period is an ideal time:
- Seasonal clearance — clothing, home goods, and accessories
- Holiday décor discounts — perfect for after-holiday purchases
- Clearance pricing on seasonal items — often marked down significantly
However, clearance sales can make stores busier than usual, so plan for crowds during peak hours.
Macy’s Customer Service During the Holidays
Customer service desks may also operate on limited hours. If you need assistance with returns, exchanges, or gift card inquiries:
- Visit early on New Year’s Eve
- Use online help through Macy’s website
- Call customer support for guidance on holiday coverage
Macy’s Return and Exchange Policy Around New Year’s
During the holiday season, Macy’s generally extends its return and exchange window for purchases. This gives shoppers extra time beyond the typical policy especially for gifts.
However, return policies may vary by product type (e.g., electronics) and location, so it’s always wise to check your receipt or confirmation email.
When to Visit Macy’s Before New Year’s?
To avoid holiday rushes and ensure you get the products you want:
- Late morning to early afternoon on New Year’s Eve is usually less crowded than early evening.
- Avoid peak hours (5–6 PM) when shoppers tend to finish errands before stores close.
Planning your visit with these insights can help make your holiday shopping smoother.
Final Thoughts
Understanding Macy’s New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day hours is key to ensuring a stress-free shopping experience as 2025 comes to a close. With earlier closing hours on New Year’s Eve and limited or closed hours on New Year’s Day, planning ahead is essential.
Whether you’re completing last-minute errands, grabbing seasonal deals, or simply shopping for essentials, checking your local Macy’s holiday hours will help you avoid closed doors and unexpected surprises.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Most stores operate from around 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, though times can vary by location.
Generally, Macy’s stores are closed on New Year’s Day, though a few locations may operate limited hours.
Yes, Macy’s online store remains available, though delivery times may be delayed due to the holiday period.
No, hours can vary by store, particularly in urban flagship locations or stores inside malls.
Yes, many Macy’s stores offer holiday clearance sales in the days leading up to and following New Year’s Eve.
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