What’s Open and Closed on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day in the U.S.?
As Christmas gets closer, lots of people wonder which stores and services will be open or closed. It’s always good to know in advance, so you don’t get caught off guard while shopping for gifts or picking up last-minute groceries. Here’s a quick guide to help you plan for December 24 (Christmas Eve) and December 25 (Christmas Day) in the United States.
Grocery Stores
- On Christmas Eve, most grocery stores will be open, but with shorter hours. For example, Aldi is open from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., and Costco from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Other stores like Publix and Trader Joe’s also close early. It’s smart to check your local store’s hours before heading out, since times can vary a lot[3][4].
- On Christmas Day, almost all major grocery stores like Aldi, Costco, Publix, and Trader Joe’s will be closed, so their workers can spend time with family. Still, a few places like some Safeway or Bravo Supermarkets might be open for a few hours, but always call ahead to be sure[3][8].
Big Retailers
- Walmart: Open on Christmas Eve from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m., but totally closed on Christmas Day[1][2][5].
- Target: You can shop there from 7 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Christmas Eve. All stores are closed on Christmas Day[1][2][5].
- Costco: Open Christmas Eve from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., but closed all day on December 25[3][4].
- Kohl’s, Macy’s, TJ Maxx, Marshalls, HomeGoods: Most of these stores open early on Christmas Eve (some as early as 7 a.m.) and close between 6 and 8 p.m. All are closed on Christmas Day[2][4][7].
Department and Home Improvement Stores
- Home Depot: Open on Christmas Eve, but closes early, usually by 5 p.m. Lowe’s also closes at 6 p.m. Both are closed on Christmas Day[2][4].
Pharmacies and Essentials
- Some CVS and Walgreens stores may be open on Christmas Day, but usually with shorter hours. Always check with your local branch before you go[3][4].
- Convenience stores like 7-Eleven and some gas stations are usually open on both days, which is handy if you need something quick.
Banks and Services
- Christmas Eve is not a federal holiday, so some banks might be open, but probably with reduced hours. On Christmas Day, banks are closed, but ATMs and online banking will still work[8].
- Post offices and shipping services are closed on Christmas Day too[8].
Online Shopping
- Even if stores are closed, you can still shop online at places like Target or Walmart, and buy digital gift cards.
Quick Tips
- Most big stores and groceries will close early on Christmas Eve and stay closed on Christmas Day.
- Essential places like some pharmacies, gas stations, and convenience stores will be open if you need them.
- Always check your local store’s hours online or give them a call before heading out, just to be safe.
So, if you need to grab something last minute, try to do it on Christmas Eve before stores close. On Christmas Day, it’s best to relax at home with family and friends—most places will be closed anyway. And don’t worry, you can always order stuff online if you forget something!