Is Chick-fil-A open on New Year’s Day? Yes. As of January 1, 2026, Chick-fil-A restaurants across the United States are open, but most locations operate with reduced holiday hours rather than their regular daily schedule. Customers planning a visit should expect earlier closing times and possible service adjustments depending on location.
This article provides a clear, current look at Chick-fil-A’s New Year’s Day operations, helping U.S. readers plan ahead without confusion.
Chick-fil-A’s New Year’s Day Policy in 2026
Chick-fil-A does not classify New Year’s Day as a full closure holiday. Unlike Sundays, Christmas Day, and Thanksgiving Day—when every location closes nationwide—January 1 is treated as a limited-hours operating day.
In 2026, this policy remains consistent. Most restaurants open later than usual and close well before the evening rush. While exact schedules vary by location, the reduced-hours approach applies across the country.
Because Chick-fil-A locations are independently operated, each franchise owner determines the precise opening and closing times within the company’s holiday guidelines.
Why Chick-fil-A Uses Shorter Hours on New Year’s Day
Chick-fil-A is known for prioritizing employee well-being. Reduced hours on major holidays allow team members time to rest and spend the day with family while still serving customers.
New Year’s Day often sees lighter evening demand. Closing early allows restaurants to operate efficiently without sacrificing service quality during peak daytime hours.
This balance between availability and employee care has become a defining part of the brand’s holiday operations.
Typical Chick-fil-A Hours on New Year’s Day
While schedules are not identical nationwide, many Chick-fil-A locations follow a similar New Year’s Day pattern.
Common operating times include:
- Opening between 9:30 a.m. and 10:30 a.m.
- Closing between 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.
- Dining rooms closing earlier than drive-thru lanes
- Mobile ordering stopping ahead of early closure
Customers should not assume standard weekday hours apply on January 1.
Breakfast Service on New Year’s Day
Breakfast is available at many Chick-fil-A restaurants on New Year’s Day, but the window may be shorter.
Some locations:
- Start breakfast later than usual
- End breakfast earlier than 10:30 a.m.
- Transition to lunch sooner
Those hoping to order breakfast items should plan to arrive earlier in the morning and confirm local availability.
Lunch and Afternoon Service Availability
Lunch service is generally available at all open locations. Popular items such as chicken sandwiches, nuggets, waffle fries, salads, and beverages remain on the menu.
Afternoon service is steady, but customers should be aware that inventory may become limited as the restaurant approaches early closing time. Visiting earlier in the day increases menu availability.
Dinner Plans and Early Closures
Dinner service is limited on New Year’s Day. Many Chick-fil-A restaurants close before traditional dinner hours, making late-evening visits unreliable.
Customers planning a New Year’s meal should aim for lunch or mid-afternoon rather than waiting until evening.
Drive-Thru Service on January 1
Drive-thru service is commonly available on New Year’s Day and may operate slightly longer than dine-in areas. Some restaurants close their dining rooms early while keeping drive-thru lanes open for an additional period.
Even so, drive-thru hours are still shorter than usual. Late-night service is not offered on January 1.
Mobile Ordering and App Use
The Chick-fil-A mobile app remains active on New Year’s Day. Customers can:
- View local holiday hours
- Place pickup orders
- Monitor drive-thru availability
Mobile ordering may close earlier than expected due to reduced staffing or early shutdown times. Ordering earlier in the day is the most reliable option.
Delivery Availability on New Year’s Day
Delivery service varies by location. Some Chick-fil-A restaurants offer delivery through approved platforms, while others suspend delivery on holidays.
Where available, delivery hours are often shorter than in-store service. Cutoff times may occur well before the restaurant’s closing time.
How Busy Is Chick-fil-A on New Year’s Day?
Traffic patterns on January 1 differ from typical weekdays. Many people are off work, leading to increased daytime visits.
Common trends include:
- A late-morning rush after opening
- Steady midday traffic
- Minimal evening demand
Reduced staffing during peak hours may lead to longer waits, especially at drive-thru lanes.
How New Year’s Day Compares to Other Chick-fil-A Holidays
Chick-fil-A categorizes holidays into full closures and limited operations.
Full closures include:
- Sundays
- Christmas Day
- Thanksgiving Day
Limited-hours days include:
- New Year’s Day
- Christmas Eve
- Other select holidays based on operator choice
New Year’s Day consistently falls under limited operations rather than full shutdown.
Does Chick-fil-A Close Early Every Year on January 1?
Yes. Early closure on New Year’s Day is a long-standing practice. While exact times vary, customers should always expect shorter hours compared to regular weekdays.
This approach has remained stable and continues in 2026.
Are All Chick-fil-A Locations Open Nationwide?
Most Chick-fil-A restaurants across the U.S. are open on New Year’s Day. Rare exceptions may occur due to local factors such as weather, staffing, or facility limitations.
Checking ahead is especially important for:
- Smaller towns
- College campuses
- Non-traditional locations
Mall and Airport Chick-fil-A Locations
Chick-fil-A restaurants inside malls and airports often follow the host facility’s holiday schedule.
Mall locations may:
- Open later
- Close earlier
- Offer limited seating
Airport locations often maintain broader hours but may provide a smaller menu.
Menu Availability on New Year’s Day
Open locations typically offer the full standard menu. However, availability may decrease closer to closing time.
Seasonal items depend on inventory and location. Popular items may sell out earlier than usual.
Staffing and Service Levels
Reduced hours are paired with smaller teams. This can affect:
- Speed of service
- Dining room operations
- Order fulfillment times
Despite smaller teams, Chick-fil-A maintains its usual service standards.
Planning Tips for Customers
To avoid inconvenience on New Year’s Day:
- Confirm hours before visiting
- Avoid late-evening trips
- Order earlier in the day
- Use the app for updates
Preparation helps ensure a smooth experience.
Common Mistakes Customers Make on January 1
Some visitors assume:
- Normal weekday hours apply
- Late-night service is available
- All locations follow identical schedules
Understanding holiday operations prevents disappointment.
January 2 and Return to Normal Hours
Most Chick-fil-A locations resume normal operating hours on January 2. Regular breakfast, lunch, and dinner schedules typically return without issue.
Final Overview
To recap clearly:
- Chick-fil-A is open on New Year’s Day 2026
- Reduced hours are standard
- Early closure is common
- Local verification is essential
This information helps customers plan confidently at the start of the year.
Have you visited Chick-fil-A on New Year’s Day this year? Share your experience or stay connected for future updates on holiday hours and dining plans.