The holiday season is a time of joy, celebration, and togetherness. However, even with the best planning, there are always last-minute needs—whether it’s a forgotten gift, missing ingredients for Christmas dinner, or simply the need for essentials. If you find yourself needing to shop on December 25th, knowing which stores open on Christmas can save you from unnecessary stress. While many businesses close to allow employees to celebrate with their families, some retailers and convenience stores remain open to accommodate last-minute shoppers.
In this article, we’ll explore various stores that remain open on Christmas, including grocery stores, pharmacies, convenience stores, and restaurants.
Grocery Stores Open on Christmas
Many major grocery chains close on Christmas Day, but some remain open with reduced hours. Here are a few places where you might be able to grab last-minute groceries:
- Albertsons – Some locations may be open, but hours will vary. Check your local store for details.
- Safeway – Select locations operate with limited hours, typically closing by early afternoon.
- Giant Food – A few locations stay open, but hours are usually shortened.
- Acme Markets – Some stores may be open with limited hours.
- 7-Eleven – While not a full grocery store, this convenience chain remains open 24/7, including Christmas Day.
If you need specific ingredients or fresh produce, calling ahead to check hours is always a good idea.
Pharmacies and Drugstores Open on Christmas
If you need medicine, personal care items, or even small holiday gifts, pharmacies can be a lifesaver. Here are some major chains that typically keep select locations open on Christmas:
- CVS Pharmacy – Most locations with 24-hour service remain open, though non-24-hour stores may have limited hours.
- Walgreens – Like CVS, many 24-hour locations remain open, while others may have shortened hours.
- Rite Aid – Some locations remain open, but hours will depend on the store.
These stores are excellent options for last-minute gift wrapping supplies, greeting cards, and even small toys or snacks.
Convenience Stores Open on Christmas
For quick snack runs, beverages, or even household essentials, convenience stores often remain open throughout the holiday. These include:
- 7-Eleven – Most locations are open 24/7, making it a go-to for late-night or early-morning needs.
- Circle K – Many locations remain open, though hours may vary.
- Wawa – Stores generally operate on Christmas, but hours could differ by location.
- QuikTrip – Some stores stay open, particularly in urban and high-traffic areas.
Convenience stores are perfect for those minor but crucial last-minute purchases like batteries, snacks, or even a quick cup of coffee before heading to a holiday gathering.
Retail Stores Open on Christmas
Most major retail stores, such as Walmart, Target, and Costco, remain closed on Christmas Day. However, some smaller retailers and specific chain stores stay open, including:
- Family Dollar & Dollar General – Many locations are open, typically with reduced hours.
- Big Lots – Some stores may remain open, but with shorter hours.
These stores can be helpful for last-minute holiday decorations, stocking stuffers, and household essentials.
Restaurants Open on Christmas
If you don’t feel like cooking or need a quick meal, several chain restaurants remain open on Christmas Day. Some of the most common options include:
- Denny’s – Open 24/7, including Christmas.
- IHOP – Many locations remain open with normal or reduced hours.
- McDonald’s – Some locations stay open, but hours vary by franchise.
- Starbucks – Many locations operate on Christmas, often with reduced hours.
- Boston Market – Offers holiday meals and takeout options at select locations.
- Waffle House – Known for being open every day of the year, including Christmas.
If you’re planning on dining out, calling ahead to confirm hours is recommended, as individual franchise owners may decide to close for the day.
Gas Stations Open on Christmas
Traveling on Christmas Day? If you need to refuel or grab some road trip essentials, many gas stations remain open, including:
- Shell – Many locations are open, particularly those with 24-hour service.
- BP – Some stations may be open, but hours vary.
- ExxonMobil – Many locations remain operational.
- RaceTrac – Typically open 24/7, even on holidays.
Many gas stations also have attached convenience stores, allowing you to pick up snacks, drinks, and minor necessities while on the road.
Online Shopping and Delivery Services on Christmas
If you prefer to avoid the stress of finding an open store, online shopping and delivery services can be a lifesaver. While shipping is not an option for same-day needs, several services may offer same-day delivery or in-store pickup, including:
- Amazon Prime Now – In select locations, Amazon’s same-day delivery service can bring groceries and household essentials to your door.
- Instacart – Some grocery stores partner with Instacart to offer Christmas Day deliveries, but availability is limited.
- DoorDash & UberEats – Many restaurants that are open on Christmas partner with these platforms for food delivery.
- Walmart & Target Pickup – While these stores are closed, their apps may still allow for next-day pickup or scheduled deliveries.
Final Thoughts
While Christmas is a time for celebration and family gatherings, unexpected needs can arise. Whether you need a last-minute gift, ingredients for a holiday meal, or simply a cup of coffee on a cold winter morning, there are still plenty of options available. Many convenience stores, pharmacies, and select grocery stores remain open on Christmas Day to ensure you can get what you need without too much hassle.
If you plan to shop or dine out on December 25th, always check with local stores for specific holiday hours, as they may vary by location. Having a plan in place can help reduce stress and allow you to focus on enjoying the holiday with loved ones.
Now that you know which stores open on Christmas, you can rest assured that last-minute shopping or dining emergencies won’t ruin your holiday spirit. Happy holidays and happy shopping!
