New Year’s Day 2026: What’s Open & Closed in Mexico – Stores, Banks, Grocery, Restaurants for NRIs

As Non-Resident Indians (NRIs) and the global Indian community in Mexico welcome 2026 on Thursday, January 1, New Year’s Day (Día de Año Nuevo) is a national statutory holiday. This results in closures for banks, government offices, and many businesses, but several supermarkets, convenience stores, pharmacies, and restaurants stay open—often with reduced hours—for essentials like groceries or recovery meals.

Whether you’re in Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey, Cancún, or other cities popular with the Indian diaspora, here’s your practical guide to what’s open and closed on New Year’s Day 2026. Hours can vary by location and chain—always confirm via store apps, websites, or phone.

Is New Year’s Day a Statutory Holiday in Mexico?

Yes – January 1 is an official public holiday nationwide. Key closures include:

• Banks: All branches closed (BBVA, Banorte, Santander, Citibanamex, etc.). ATMs and online banking remain available.
• Government Offices: Closed (INE, SAT, immigration services, etc.).
• Schools & Universities: Closed.
• Post Offices (Correos de México): Closed.

New Year’s Eve (December 31, 2025) is not a statutory holiday, so most places operate but often close early.

Grocery & Supermarkets Open on New Year’s Day 2026

Many large chains open with reduced hours, great for stocking up on Indian spices, essentials, or party leftovers:

Open (typically reduced hours):

• Walmart – Open, often from 10 a.m. onward (some until evening).
• Soriana – Open, usually 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. or similar.
• Chedraui – Open with extended access for convenience.
• OXXO & Other Convenience Stores (e.g., 7-Eleven equivalents) – Mostly open 24/7 or extended hours for basics.
• Smaller local markets or tienditas – Many open.

Closed or Limited:

• Costco – Closed nationwide.
• Sam’s Club – May have limited hours or closed in some areas.

Plan ahead for desi groceries—many Indian stores in areas with NRI communities may follow local customs.

Pharmacies & Retail

• Farmacias del Ahorro, Benavides, or Guadalajara – Many open (some 24/7 locations).
• Department Stores (Liverpool, Palacio de Hierro) – Mostly closed or very limited.
• Malls & Shopping Centers – Reduced operations; tourist areas may have some open shops.

Gas stations are generally open.

Restaurants & Coffee Shops Open on New Year’s Day 2026

Plenty of options for brunch, coffee, or family meals (hours vary—franchise-dependent):

• Starbucks – Many locations open (reduced hours).
• McDonald’s, Burger King, Subway – Majority open.
• Vips, Sanborns – Often open for traditional meals.
• Local and chain eateries, especially Indian restaurants (in Mexico City or Guadalajara) – Some open; check Uber Eats, DiDi Food, or Rappi for delivery.

Tourist zones and hotels usually have dining available.

New Year’s Eve (Dec 31, 2025) Quick Tips

Most supermarkets and stores open but close early (e.g., Costco until 5-6 p.m.)—perfect for last-minute roshogolla ingredients or party supplies!

Kick off 2026 smoothly, enjoying family time or recovering from celebrations. From NRI Globe, Feliz Año Nuevo and Happy New Year to the Indian diaspora in Mexico!