Which Stores Are Open On Christmas Eve?

Nick Leason

-Oct 8, 2025

Christmas Eve is a time for festive gatherings, last-minute gift shopping, and delicious meals. For many, it also means a race against the clock to pick up forgotten ingredients or gifts. Understanding which stores remain open on this busy holiday can save you time and stress. This article will guide you through the typical operating hours of major retailers and essential services on Christmas Eve in the United States, helping you plan your holiday errands effectively.

Key Takeaways

Many major retail chains, including big-box stores, pharmacies, and grocery stores, typically operate on Christmas Eve, though often with modified hours.
Some stores, particularly smaller boutiques and specialty shops, may close early or remain entirely closed.
Restaurants and entertainment venues often have special holiday hours, with many remaining open for festive dining.
Essential services like hospitals and some pharmacies maintain 24/7 or extended hours.
It's crucial to verify specific store hours directly with the retailer or via their website/app before visiting, as hours can vary by location and are subject to change.

Introduction

Christmas Eve, observed annually on December 24th, marks the day before Christmas Day. In the United States, it's a day filled with anticipation, family traditions, and, for many, the final push for holiday shopping. This creates a common question: "What stores are open on Christmas Eve?" The answer isn't a simple yes or no, as retail operations vary widely. Understanding these patterns is essential for anyone needing to make a last-minute purchase, grab groceries for a holiday feast, or simply find a place to eat. This guide aims to provide a comprehensive overview of typical store operations on Christmas Eve, helping you navigate the holiday with ease.

What Stores Are Typically Open on Christmas Eve and Why?

Christmas Eve is a significant shopping day, and many businesses recognize this by remaining open, albeit often with adjusted schedules. The primary reason retailers stay open is to capture last-minute sales, as consumers often rush to buy gifts, food, and other essentials.

Major Retailers (Big-Box Stores)

Stores like Walmart, Target, and Kmart are generally open on Christmas Eve. However, they usually operate with reduced hours. For example, many Walmart and Target locations might close at 6 PM, 8 PM, or 10 PM, significantly earlier than their usual closing times. Kmart has also historically followed this trend, though its store count has diminished over the years.

Grocery Stores

Most major grocery chains, such as Kroger, Safeway, Publix, and Albertson's, also open their doors on Christmas Eve. Similar to big-box retailers, they often have shorter hours, perhaps closing by 7 PM or 9 PM. Smaller, independent grocery stores might have more varied hours, with some closing earlier than national chains.

Pharmacies

Pharmacies, including CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid, are typically open on Christmas Eve, often with extended hours. Some locations, especially those within larger retail stores or standalone 24-hour branches, may operate around the clock. This ensures access to necessary medications and last-minute health and beauty items.

Restaurants and Dining

Many restaurants remain open on Christmas Eve to cater to diners seeking a festive meal or a convenient option. Fast-food chains like McDonald's, Burger King, and Starbucks are generally open, although individual franchise hours can differ. Sit-down restaurants, from casual diners to fine dining establishments, often offer special holiday menus or regular service, but it is highly recommended to make reservations and confirm their operating hours.

Convenience Stores and Gas Stations

Convenience stores like 7-Eleven, Circle K, and Wawa, along with most gas stations, are usually open 24/7 or with very extended hours on Christmas Eve. They serve as essential stops for fuel, snacks, and basic necessities at almost any hour.

What Might Be Closed?

While many stores are open, some are not. Smaller, independent businesses, boutiques, and some specialty shops might close early or remain completely shut for the holiday. Banks and post offices are almost universally closed on Christmas Eve, often closing by noon or earlier if they are open at all. Schools and government offices are also closed.

Why Are Some Stores Closed?

Several factors influence a store's decision to close on Christmas Eve:

Employee Well-being: Many businesses prioritize giving their employees time off to spend with family and friends. This is a significant consideration, especially for smaller businesses with limited staff.
Reduced Customer Traffic: While Christmas Eve is busy, traffic can drop significantly in the late evening as people head home for celebrations. Retailers may find it unprofitable to stay open very late.
Inventory and Logistics: For some businesses, the logistical challenges and costs associated with operating on a major holiday outweigh the potential sales.
Tradition and Policy: Some companies have long-standing traditions or corporate policies that dictate closure on certain holidays.

How to Find Out Specific Store Hours on Christmas Eve

Navigating holiday hours requires a proactive approach. Here’s how to get the most accurate information:

Check Retailer Websites: Most major retailers have a store locator tool on their website. Simply enter your zip code or city, and the specific hours for that location on Christmas Eve (and other holidays) will be listed. This is often the most reliable method.
Use Store Apps: Many retailers offer mobile apps that provide store details, including hours. These apps can be a quick way to check hours while on the go.
Call the Store Directly: If you can't find information online or want to confirm, calling the store is a direct way to get an answer. Be aware that phone lines may be busy on the days leading up to Christmas. — New England Revolution: History, Players & More
Consult Google Maps or Similar Services: Search for the store on Google Maps or other mapping services. They often display operating hours, including holiday schedules. However, always cross-reference this information, as it may not always be up-to-date. — The UPS Store Oak Park: Services & Solutions
Check Social Media: Some businesses announce holiday hours on their social media pages (Facebook, Twitter, etc.).

Examples of Typical Christmas Eve Hours (United States)

To give you a clearer picture, here are general guidelines for some popular retailers. Please remember these are typical and can vary by location and year. Always verify!

Walmart: Often open until 6 PM or 8 PM.
Target: Frequently closes at 8 PM or 10 PM.
Kroger: Usually closes between 7 PM and 9 PM.
Safeway: Similar to Kroger, often closing by 7 PM or 8 PM.
CVS Pharmacy: Many locations open until 10 PM, with some 24-hour locations remaining open all day.
Walgreens: Often open until 10 PM, with some 24-hour locations.
Starbucks: Hours vary greatly; many close by 5 PM, while some mall locations might be open later.
McDonald's: Most locations remain open, but hours can range from standard closing times to 24 hours, depending on the franchise.
Home Depot/Lowe's: Typically close around 5 PM or 6 PM.
Best Buy: Often closes around 6 PM or 7 PM.

Important Note: Stores that typically close very early on Christmas Eve include banks, post offices, and many smaller retail shops. Plan accordingly! — Fax Machines With Email: How They Work

Best Practices for Christmas Eve Shopping

To make your Christmas Eve shopping experience as smooth as possible, follow these best practices:

Plan Ahead: The best strategy is to avoid Christmas Eve shopping altogether. Do your shopping well in advance.
Verify Hours: As stressed throughout this article, always confirm the specific hours for the location you intend to visit. Don't assume.
Shop Early in the Day: If you must shop on Christmas Eve, aim for the morning or early afternoon. Stores are generally less crowded, and you're more likely to find items in stock.
Be Patient and Kind: Retail workers are often working under pressure during the holidays. A little patience and kindness go a long way.
Have Backup Plans: If your first-choice store is unexpectedly closed or out of an item, have a second or third option in mind.
Consider Online Options (with caveats): While many online retailers will have already stopped shipping for Christmas delivery, you might still be able to purchase gift cards or digital codes online for instant delivery.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Assuming Standard Hours: The most common mistake is assuming stores will operate on their regular schedule. Holiday hours are almost always different.
Waiting Until the Last Minute: Relying on Christmas Eve for all your shopping increases stress and the risk of finding stores closed or items sold out.
Not Checking Multiple Sources: Relying on outdated information from a quick search without verifying directly with the store can lead to a wasted trip.
Forgetting Essential Services: Thinking only about retail stores and forgetting about essential services like pharmacies or grocery stores can be problematic if you need something specific.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Are Walmart and Target open on Christmas Eve?

A1: Yes, both Walmart and Target are typically open on Christmas Eve, but they usually operate with reduced hours, often closing by 6 PM or 8 PM. It's essential to check the specific hours for your local store.

Q2: Will grocery stores be open on Christmas Eve?

A2: Most major grocery chains, like Kroger and Safeway, are open on Christmas Eve. However, they usually close earlier than usual, often between 7 PM and 9 PM. Smaller independent stores may have different hours.

Q3: Can I get prescriptions filled on Christmas Eve?

A3: Yes, most pharmacies, including CVS and Walgreens, are open on Christmas Eve, often with extended hours. Some locations offer 24-hour service for prescriptions and other needs.

Q4: Are fast-food restaurants open on Christmas Eve?

A4: Many fast-food restaurants, such as McDonald's and Starbucks, remain open on Christmas Eve. However, operating hours can vary significantly by franchise, so it's best to verify with your local outlet.

Q5: What kind of stores are usually closed on Christmas Eve?

A5: Banks, post offices, and many smaller independent shops or boutiques are typically closed or close very early on Christmas Eve. Government offices and schools are also closed.

Conclusion and Call to Action

Christmas Eve is a unique day for commerce, with many businesses adapting their hours to accommodate last-minute needs while also respecting the holiday spirit. While major retailers, grocery stores, and pharmacies generally remain open, they often do so with shortened hours. It is paramount to verify the specific operating times for any store you plan to visit by checking their website, app, or calling directly. Planning ahead and confirming hours will ensure your Christmas Eve errands are efficient and stress-free, allowing you more time to enjoy the festive season.

Don't leave your holiday shopping or essential needs to chance. Plan your Christmas Eve errands now by checking your local store's hours!

Last updated: December 22, 2023, 14:30 UTC