Christmas 2025 Store Hours: What’s Open and Closed Near You

Last-Minute Holiday Guide: Which Stores Are Open (and Closed) This Christmas?

(David Zalubowski, Associated Press)

We’ve all been there. You’re halfway through prep for Christmas dinner when you realize you forgot the heavy cream, or perhaps you realized too late that those “batteries not included” stickers weren’t lying.

While Christmas Day is traditionally the one day of the year when the world seems to pause, not every door is locked. However, the list of closures is longer than Santa’s "Nice" list this year. To help you avoid a frustrating drive to a dark parking lot, here is a breakdown of what to expect on Wednesday, December 25, 2024.

The Major Retailers Taking a Break

If you’re looking for a big-box retailer, you’re likely out of luck. Nearly every major national chain has announced it will be completely closed on Christmas Day to allow its employees to spend time with their families.

The following stores will be closed on Christmas:

Walmart: All locations closed.

Target: All locations closed.

Costco: All locations closed.

Sam’s Club: All locations closed.

Best Buy: All locations closed.

Kohl’s: All locations closed.

Macy’s: All locations closed.

Home Depot & Lowe’s: All locations closed.

Where You Can Find Last-Minute Essentials

If you desperately need a gallon of milk, a basic prescription, or a pack of AA batteries, your best bet is a pharmacy or a convenience store. However, keep in mind that many of these locations operate on reduced holiday hours, so calling ahead is a must.

Pharmacies

• CVS: Many locations will be open, but some may have shortened hours (typically 8 a.m. to 9 p.m.). Note that pharmacy counters within the stores may be closed even if the front shop is open.
• Walgreens: Most 24-hour locations will remain open all day. Non-24-hour locations will likely have limited hours.
• Rite Aid: Most locations are expected to be open, but hours vary by region.

Convenience Stores

• 7-Eleven: Most locations are open 24/7, even on Christmas.
• Wawa: Most locations remain open.
• Circle K / Speedway: Most locations are expected to be open.

Grocery Stores: A Tough Find

Unlike Thanksgiving, where some grocers stay open until midday, Christmas Day is much stricter.

Closed Grocery Chains:

• Trader Joe’s
• ALDI
• Whole Foods
• Publix
• Kroger (and its subsidiaries like Fred Meyer, Smith’s, and Ralphs)
• H-E-B

Potential Openings:

Safeway/Albertsons: Some locations may be open with very limited hours (e.g., 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.), but this varies heavily by state.

Vons: Some locations may remain open for limited morning hours.

Need a Caffeine Fix or a Bite to Eat?

If you’ve burned the turkey or just need to escape the house for a latte, a few national food and coffee chains will be standing by.

• Starbucks: Many locations will be open, though many will close by mid-afternoon. Check the Starbucks app before you head out.
• Dunkin’: Most locations are open, but hours vary by individual franchise owner.
• Denny’s & IHOP: Known for never closing their doors, these diners are generally open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, including Christmas.
• Waffle House: True to tradition, they remain open 365 days a year.
• McDonald’s / Burger King: This is a toss-up. Since most are franchises, some owners choose to open while others close.

A Final Pro-Tip

Before you head out into the cold, use a store locator app or make a quick phone call. Even if a brand is "open," local staffing shortages or regional regulations can change those hours at the last minute.

Wishing you a stress-free holiday and a very Merry Christmas!