Here’s a rundown of what will be open and closed on New Year’s Day 2026 in St. Catharines, Niagara Falls, Welland, and Port Colborne.
This year, New Year’s Day is on Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026.
Lists like this can get a bit complicated in the Niagara Region mainly because of Niagara Falls. The city is part of the “special tourist area exemption,” which allows businesses to operate without penalties on statutory holidays.
This means that while malls may close in places like St. Catharines, Grimsby, or Welland, that might not apply in Niagara Falls.
For example, the Walmart Supercentre at 7481 Oakwood Dr. will be open from 7 a. m. to 11 p. m. on Jan. 1. In Niagara Falls, it really depends on the business owners – big or small. If they want to give their staff a day off? They’ll close. But if they want to kick off the new year by making some sales? They can stay open…because it’s allowed.
The cool thing about being a tourist spot – and since Niagara Falls is Canada’s top tourist attraction – is you have to offer visitors things to see and do. Plus, since New Year’s Day doesn’t carry the same religious significance as Christmas Day does, there are plenty of options at the Falls.
You’ll find some exceptions for Niagara Falls in this list. Here’s what will be available on Jan. 1, 2026:
Open
Some smaller grocery stores like Rabba may be open; larger ones in Niagara Falls could also be open – call ahead. Most convenience stores and gas stations with attached convenience stores will likely be operating. Some Shoppers Drug Marts (it’s best to call ahead). Most restaurants will welcome guests, especially in Niagara Falls; just call ahead to confirm as many might open later in the afternoon. Niagara Falls OPG Winter Festival of Lights Movie theaters are open but check if tickets need to be purchased online. The Outlet Collection at Niagara (holiday hours are from 10 a. m. to 6 p. m.). Most family-friendly attractions in Niagara Falls should be operational; calling ahead is advised.
Closed
All LCBOs and Beer Stores (including those in Niagara Falls). All major grocery chains such as Fortino’s, Longo’s, Walmart, Great Canadian Superstores, Metro and Zehrs (with exceptions for some locations in Niagara Falls). While over sixty wineries and thirteen craft breweries might open their doors, most likely won’t – so it’s smart to call first. Government offices All city halls and town halls All malls in St. Catharines and Welland plus some malls in Niagara Falls; if you live there, make sure to call beforehand. Banks Libraries Community centers Community recycling facilities Arenas
Garbage and recycling
No garbage pickup will happen on Jan. 1; expect delays for pickups throughout the week.
Transit:
Bus service operates until 2 a. m. on Dec. 31 across Welland, St. Catharines and Niagara Falls but won’t run on Jan. 1 for Niagara Transit. GO Transit follows a Saturday schedule on Jan. 1; check https://www. gotransit. com/ for times.
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