What’s Open and Closed in Santa Barbara on New Year’s Eve and Day

As we prepare to ring in 2026, locals and visitors planning meals, last-minute shopping, or errands may need to prepare accordingly as many establishments may be taking a holiday pause on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, while many are welcoming diners and shoppers. While some offices are expected to stay open, they might operate with limited hours. 

To help our readers looking to grab a meal with loved ones, enjoy a leisurely holiday outing, or restock their kitchen, here’s a list of the establishments that will stay open this New Year’s and the ones that will be closed in Santa Barbara. 

New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day Business Hours in Santa Barbara

Grocery Stores

Closed: Trader Joe’s (Open only on December 31, 2025)

Costco (Open only on December 31)

European Deli & Produce Market (Open only on December 31) 

Pennywise Market (Open only on December 31)

Open: Gelson’s

Lazy Acres Natural Market

Ralph’s (Pharmacies will be closed on January 1, 2026)

Presidio Market Liquor & Grill

While these grocery stores will be open during the holiday season, their hours of operation might change. It is advisable to check their website or call ahead to confirm their holiday hours. 

Convenience Stores and Pharmacies

Open: All CVS locations

All 7-Eleven stores

AMPM

ExtraMile

Conserv Fuel

Walgreens

Vons Pharmacy

San Ysidro Pharmacy

Most convenience stores are typically open 24×7, especially the ones located near gas stations, primarily because they serve essential items. However, some pharmacies may be open with reduced hours. It is advisable to call ahead to find out the exact hours. 

Restaurants

Closed: Intermezzo by Wine Cask

The Daisy (open only for lunch on December 31)

Rascals (Open on January 1)

Open: Finch & Fork

Loquita

The Palace Grill

Paloma

Black Sheep Restaurant + Bar

The Harbor Restaurant

Rare Society

Convivo

Bibi Ji

Holiday hours are subject to change and many establishments require reservations on New Year’s Eve. It is advisable to call ahead and confirm hours of operation. 

Government Offices:

Closed: Fire Prevention (available on January 1)

City Attorney

Airport Badging Office (open on December 31)

City Clerk Office

Human Resources

All libraries

City Office of Emergency Services

Open: Emergency services, such as police, fire, and harbor patrol services

Airport and terminal operations

Parks, playgrounds, beaches, community gardens, lawn bowling clubs, tennis and pickleball courts, and the municipal golf course

Even when open, many restaurants, grocery stores, and pharmacies run on reduced schedules. As with any holiday season operation hours, some businesses or offices may announce closure at the last minute. It is advisable to call ahead or check the website to avoid any last-minute cancellations.