With Christmas Eve and Christmas Day leading to widespread store closures across the United States, last-minute shopping for groceries, gifts, and essentials could become a significant challenge. Planning ahead is crucial to avoid unnecessary trips and disappointment. Having a clear list of which retailers will be open, which will shut down completely, and which will operate on a limited holiday schedule can save you time and stress during the festive rush.
Major Retailers Closed on Christmas Day
In observance of the Christmas holiday, a large number of prominent grocery stores, markets, and big-box chains will be fully closed on December 25. This means your regular shopping haunts might not be accessible. It is advisable to complete your purchases beforehand.
The list of stores that will be closed for the entire day includes:
- Aldi
- Big Lots
- BJ’s Wholesale Club (all locations and gas stations)
- Costco Wholesale
- Dollar General
- Erewhon
- Harris Teeter
- Key Food
- Kroger
- Publix
- Ralphs
- Rite Aid
- Sprouts Farmers Market
- Stater Bros.
- Stop & Shop
- The Fresh Market
- The Home Depot
- Trader Joe’s
- Wegmans
- Whole Foods Market
Some chains have provided specific timings for Christmas Eve. Sam’s Club stores will be open on December 24 from 9:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m. before closing for the holiday. Target will be closed on Christmas Day and will reopen at 7:00 a.m. on December 26. In a major closure, all 4,600+ Walmart stores across the U.S. will be shut on December 25. On Christmas Eve, Walmart will operate from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., with normal hours resuming on December 26.
Stores Open on Christmas Day with Modified Hours
For those in need of urgent supplies or last-minute items, several stores and pharmacies will remain open on Christmas Day, though often with reduced or modified hours. Instead of guessing or driving around, you can target these locations.
Key stores that will be open include:
- Cumberland Farms: Operating regular business hours.
- 7-Eleven: Most locations will stay open 24/7.
- Morton Williams Supermarket: Open from 7:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. (reduced hours).
- Albertsons: Operating with modified holiday hours.
- Bravo Supermarkets: Open from 7:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., similar to previous years.
- Duane Reade: Shorter hours that vary by location.
- Casey’s: Opens at 10:00 a.m. on a modified schedule; some outlets may close.
- Acme Markets: Select stores open, but hours vary.
- Circle K: Most stores open 24/7, a few may have reduced hours.
- CVS Pharmacy: Open with limited hours on December 25.
- Maverik (formerly Kum & Go): Will remain open 24/7.
Plan Ahead for a Smooth Holiday
The key to navigating Christmas Day store hours is preparation. Whether you need to pick up forgotten ingredients for the holiday meal, a final gift, or essential supplies, checking the operational status of your local store in advance is vital. This knowledge allows you to focus your efforts on outlets that are confirmed to be open, ensuring you won't be left scrambling at the last minute. Make your list, check the timings, and enjoy a hassle-free holiday celebration.
