Many shoppers wonder what stores are open Christmas Day and how to plan their holiday shopping around limited hours. This guide highlights major retailers, pharmacy chains, and grocery options so you can locate stores that stay open on Christmas near you.
Below is a quick overview of common retail formats and their typical Christmas operating patterns to help you decide where to shop and when to go.
| Store Type | Likely Christmas Hours | Examples | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Big-Box Retailers | Closed or limited hours (8 am–6 pm) | Target, Walmart, Costco | Groceries, gifts, electronics |
| Drugstores & Pharmacies | Often open (9 am–9 pm) | CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid | Toiletries, medicines, snacks |
| Grocery Chains | Variable (some open, reduced staff) | Kroger, Publix, Albertsons | Food, last-minute ingredients |
| Convenience & Gas Stations | Generally open 24/7 | Wawa, 7-Eleven, Speedway | Beverages, snacks, basic needs |
| Online Retailers with Pickup | Site fulfillment, limited store access | Amazon, Best Buy, Ulta | Delivery or curbside options |
Department Store Schedules on Christmas
Large department stores often reduce hours or close entirely on Christmas, reflecting both national norms and local regulations. Macy’s, JCPenney, and Kohl’s may operate shortened shifts or remain shut, while regional anchors adjust based on community demand. Before heading out, check the specific location page on the store’s website for exact times and any appointment requirements.
Grocery & Supermarket Availability
Food shopping on Christmas can be essential, yet many supermarkets adjust staffing rather than closing completely. Chains like Publix and Kroger frequently remain open with reduced express lanes, while some smaller regional grocers may close or open late. Fresh produce and deli counters may have limited selections, and mask or distancing policies could still be in place depending on local guidelines.
Pharmacy & Drugstore Holiday Hours
Drugstores often stay open on Christmas to serve healthcare needs, with CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid typically maintaining hours around 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. However, holiday hours can vary by neighborhood, so verify your local branch online. Pickup services for prescriptions and over-the-counter items can still be available even if lobby hours change.
Gas Stations & Convenience Stores Open on Christmas
For travelers and night-shift workers, many gas station and convenience chains operate 24/7 on Christmas. Wawa, 7-Eleven, and Circle K usually keep fuel pumps and counters running, though hot food service might start later or end earlier. Expect near-normal pricing, but holiday staffing may be lean, so transactions could take a bit longer.
Key Takeaways for Christmas Shopping
- Check store hours on the retailer’s website or app before traveling.
- Drugstores and many gas stations often remain open on Christmas.
- Grocery hours vary by region and location; call ahead for fresh items.
- Plan for possible reductions in staff, express lanes, and product selection.
- Verify return and pickup policies online, especially for stores that are closed.
FAQ
Reader questions
Will Walmart be open on Christmas Day 2025?
Most Walmart stores are closed on Christmas Day, but some locations may open in the afternoon with reduced hours; check the store hours on Walmart’s website using your ZIP code for the exact status near you.
Which grocery stores are typically open on Christmas?
Many grocery chains such as Kroger, Publix, and Albertsons often remain open with modified hours and limited staff, though select locations may close; always confirm hours on their website or app before shopping.
Are pharmacies open on Christmas Day?
Yes, major pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens commonly stay open on Christmas with reduced hours, but local hours can vary, so verify your neighborhood branch online or by calling ahead.
Can I return items to stores that are closed on Christmas?
Return policies for stores closed on Christmas often shift to post-January timelines, with some allowing returns starting January 1st; check the retailer’s holiday return policy for specifics and required documentation.