Is McDonald’s Open on New Year’s Day? What to Know Before You Go in 2025
Everything you need to know about McDonald's New Year's Day and Eve hours, plus tips for scoring deals and alternatives if you crave a holiday bite.
McDonald’s New Year’s Day Hours in 2025: What You Need to Know
If you’re considering stopping by McDonald’s for some comfort food or recovery fuel as the New Year rolls in, you’re in luck—most McDonald’s locations will be open on New Year’s Day 2025. Across the United States, McDonald’s is one of the few major fast-food chains that traditionally keeps its doors open for both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, although there are some important details to keep in mind before you head out for that Egg McMuffin or crave-curing fries.
Will McDonald’s Be Open on New Year’s Eve?
Yes, McDonald’s will be open on New Year’s Eve. The vast majority of McDonald’s locations will welcome customers on December 31st. Whether you’re picking up dinner before the festivities or fueling up with some late-night snacks after the ball drops, you can count on McDonald’s for your burger and fries fix.
Although most restaurants keep their regular hours throughout the holiday, some locations may choose to close a little early, especially in smaller towns or malls. It’s recommended that guests double-check the hours of their local McDonald’s, either by calling ahead, using the store locator on the official website, or Googling your specific outlet.
- Most McDonald’s open regular hours on New Year’s Eve
- Some locations may close a bit earlier than usual
- Confirm your local store’s schedule online or via a quick call
Is McDonald’s Open on New Year’s Day?
Most McDonald’s locations are open on New Year’s Day, continuing the chain’s long-standing tradition of serving customers throughout many major holidays. No matter if you’re craving an early-morning breakfast after a festive night or a quick meal to kickstart your resolutions, chances are there’s a Golden Arches with open doors nearby.
However, as with New Year’s Eve, individual franchise owners have final discretion over their store hours. It’s always smart to verify with your closest McDonald’s for potential changes in opening or closing times.
- Most locations: Open on January 1st (New Year’s Day)
- Hours can vary, typically remain close to regular schedule
- Contact your restaurant or use McDonald’s app/website to confirm
A Quick Reference Table: McDonald’s Holiday Hours for 2025
| Date | Holiday | Day | Operating Hours |
|---|---|---|---|
| Dec 31, 2024 | New Year’s Eve | Tuesday | Regular hours (may vary by location) |
| Jan 1, 2025 | New Year’s Day | Wednesday | Regular hours (may vary by location) |
| Dec 25, 2024 | Christmas Day | Wednesday | Regular hours (varies for some stores) |
| Nov 28, 2024 | Thanksgiving | Thursday | Regular hours (may vary) |
Why Does McDonald’s Stay Open on Holidays?
Unlike many restaurants that close during holidays, McDonald’s makes a point to remain open year-round. Operating on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day ensures that hungry customers don’t have to hunt far for a hot meal or quick snack, especially when other dining options may be limited.
There are a few key reasons for this approach:
- Customer demand: Many people seek fast, familiar meals during the holidays and after social events, such as New Year’s Eve celebrations.
- Franchise flexibility: While corporate policy encourages stores to remain open, actual hours are ultimately determined by individual franchise owners based on community needs and staffing.
- Market competition: By staying open when others might close, McDonald’s attracts customers who have fewer choices, potentially increasing end-of-year sales.
Tips for Visiting McDonald’s During New Year’s Holidays
If you’re planning a holiday McDonald’s run, here are a few helpful tips for a smoother experience:
- Check your local store’s hours—not all outlets operate on identical schedules, especially in shopping centers, airports, or urban areas.
- Expect a crowd: New Year’s Day mornings and New Year’s Eve evenings can be busy, especially drive-thrus.
- Order online or through the McDonald’s app to save time and sometimes score special deals or loyalty rewards.
- Plan ahead: If you’re picking up food for a large group, consider ordering ahead or during non-peak hours to avoid long waits.
- Be patient and courteous—staff may be working reduced shifts on holidays.
Don’t Miss: New Year’s Deals on the McDonald’s App
Did you know the McDonald’s app frequently offers exclusive coupons, rewards points, and limited-time New Year’s deals? If you haven’t downloaded it yet, New Year’s Eve is a great time to sign up. Members can sometimes access:
- First-order discounts
- Buy-one-get-one offers (BOGO)
- Free fries or desserts with a minimum purchase
- Loyalty points that add up with each purchase, redeemable for future free menu items
Be sure to check the “Deals” section in the McDonald’s app as you prepare for your holiday celebration, and sign up for a Rewards account before midnight on New Year’s Eve to maximize your savings.
Other Restaurants and Stores Open on New Year’s Day
If your preferred McDonald’s is closed or you want alternatives, several other major chains and retailers are also open on January 1st, 2025. Here’s a handy overview of what to expect:
Popular Fast-Food & Sit-Down Restaurants Open on New Year’s Day 2025
- Chick-fil-A (except Sundays)
- Wendy’s
- Subway
- Olive Garden
- Chili’s
- Krispy Kreme
- Golden Corral
Note: Operating hours may vary by location for all chains. Always call ahead or check the store’s website for confirmation.
Major Retail & Grocery Stores Open on New Year’s Day 2025
| Store | Status | Noteworthy Details |
|---|---|---|
| Walmart | Open | 6 AM – 11 PM (varies) |
| Target | Open | Regular hours |
| Publix | Open | Closes early (usually by 7–9 PM) |
| Kroger | Open | Hours may vary |
| CVS | Open | Pharmacy hours differ |
| Walgreens | Open | Most locations regular hours |
| Whole Foods | Open | Hours depend on location |
| Costco | Closed | Not open on New Year’s Day |
| Trader Joe’s | Closed | |
| ALDI | Closed |
Other grocery stores such as H-E-B, Wegmans, Giant, Food Lion, and Big Y are generally open but may operate with adjusted hours. Always verify before making a trip, as many places adjust their schedule for both staff well-being and local demand.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About McDonald’s New Year’s Hours
Q: Are all McDonald’s locations open on New Year’s Day?
A: Most McDonald’s stores are open on January 1st, but hours and participation can vary by franchise location. Confirm by phone or online before visiting.
Q: Will McDonald’s drive-thru be open if the lobby is closed?
A: In many cases, drive-thru service operates even if the main dining area is closed for the holiday or overnight hours. Always check with your specific store for details.
Q: What are typical opening and closing times on New Year’s Day?
A: Usually, McDonald’s follows regular business hours, with some locations adjusting slightly for the holiday. Breakfast might begin as early as 5 am to 7 am, with closure in the evening between 9 pm to midnight. However, 24-hour stores often remain open all day.
Q: Can you place a mobile or online order at McDonald’s on New Year’s Day?
A: Yes, the McDonald’s app and website accept mobile orders as usual on holidays, making it quick to customize your order and pick up in-store or through the drive-thru.
Q: Are there special New Year’s deals or menu items?
A: While McDonald’s does not always launch dedicated New Year’s menu items, seasonal deals and exclusive coupons are often available through the app or rewards program. Check the “Deals” section for up-to-date offers.
Final Tips for Enjoying McDonald’s on New Year’s Holidays
- Plan ahead and confirm your local McDonald’s schedule—while most are open, hours may differ.
- Use the McDonald’s app for convenient ordering, exclusive deals, and loyalty points.
- Expect potential crowds, especially in busy city areas and travel corridors like airports and highways.
- Treat staff with kindness—they’re working the holidays to serve customers like you.
For Further Reading
- How to maximize your McDonald’s Rewards program
- The best hangover foods to try on New Year’s Day
- Holiday hours roundup: Which retailers and restaurants are open on other major holidays?
