Christmas is a time for celebration, family, and festivities. But sometimes, despite all the planning, we find ourselves in need of a last-minute item for dinner or a gift for someone who’s unexpectedly popped by. If you’re scrambling for a store that’s open on Christmas Day, you might be wondering where to go. Fortunately, some grocery stores and retailers do remain open on Christmas, while others choose to close for the holiday. In this guide, we’ll help you navigate your options, whether you need to pick up groceries or grab a quick gift.
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Grocery Stores Open on Christmas Day
If you find yourself in need of groceries or essential items on Christmas, several stores will be available to help. While hours may vary by location, here are some grocery stores that typically remain open on December 25th.
7-Eleven
Known for its 24/7 convenience, 7-Eleven is one of the most reliable spots to pick up snacks, drinks, or even last-minute ingredients for your holiday dinner. Whether you’re short on sugar for baking or need a few more bottles of wine for your gathering, 7-Eleven has you covered. Check with your local store for specific holiday hours, but in most cases, you can count on them being open.
Albertsons
Albertsons is another grocery store chain that may keep its doors open on Christmas Day. While some locations may close early, many of them will still offer essential services like a pharmacy, fresh produce, and other holiday staples. If you forgot a key ingredient for your Christmas dinner, this could be a great option to explore.
Safeway and Wawa
Both Safeway and Wawa are known for their large range of groceries and convenience items. Depending on the region, these stores tend to remain open during the holidays, including Christmas. Wawa, in particular, is well-known in the Mid-Atlantic region and often offers ready-to-eat meals, which can be a lifesaver if you’ve run out of time.
Grocery Stores Closed on Christmas Day
While several grocery stores remain open on Christmas, many opt to close for the holiday, giving their staff a much-needed break. If you're planning to visit one of the following, make sure you check their holiday schedule before heading out.
Aldi and Costco
Aldi and Costco are two well-known grocery chains that typically shut their doors on Christmas Day. Known for their bulk offerings and high-quality produce, these stores tend to have extended hours leading up to the holiday, but on Christmas, you’ll have to make other plans. If you're hoping to pick up last-minute items from these retailers, it's best to do so well in advance.
Trader Joe’s and Whole Foods
Trader Joe’s and Whole Foods also close on Christmas, so if you're hoping to pick up organic produce or a festive platter, you'll need to plan ahead. Both stores are known for their unique offerings, from seasonal products to gourmet foods, but they tend to give their employees the holiday off on Christmas Day. Check with your local store for specific hours leading up to the 25th.
Publix and Kroger
Kroger and Publix are major players in the grocery store game, and while many of their locations stay open on Christmas Eve, most will close for Christmas Day. These stores are known for their wide variety of holiday-themed items, including baked goods and special seasonal treats, but you'll need to grab them before Christmas if you want to take part in their festive offerings.
Retail Stores Open on Christmas Day
While grocery stores might close on Christmas, there are still several retail options for those who need last-minute gifts or essentials. From drugstores to convenience retailers, here are some stores that will be open on Christmas Day.
Amazon (and Online Retailers)
Amazon, the giant online marketplace, won’t be open physically, but it’s always "open" online. If you're in a pinch for a last-minute gift, you can still purchase digital gift cards or even email them directly to your recipient. Although delivery might be delayed due to the holiday, an e-gift card is a quick and thoughtful way to show you care, even on Christmas Day.
CVS and Walgreens
Both CVS and Walgreens are known for staying open on Christmas Day, offering pharmacy services as well as last-minute gift options. If you're running low on stocking stuffers, wrapping paper, or even medicine, these stores can be a lifesaver. Be sure to check with your local location to verify their hours, but many stores operate on limited hours during the holiday season.
Starbucks and Dunkin’
Need a Christmas morning coffee fix? Starbucks and Dunkin’ are often open on Christmas Day, though hours may vary. Many locations in airports, malls, or busy city centers may have extended hours, allowing you to grab your favorite holiday-themed latte before settling into the festivities.
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Retail Stores Closed on Christmas Day
While some retailers keep their doors open on Christmas, several major chains will close for the holiday. If you had your heart set on shopping, you may need to make alternate plans or visit before Christmas Day.
Costco and BJ’s Wholesale
Both Costco and BJ’s Wholesale are known for offering great deals on bulk goods, but on Christmas Day, they are typically closed. These stores tend to have long hours during the days leading up to Christmas, allowing customers to stock up on holiday essentials, but Christmas Day is a day off for their employees.
Food Lion and Wegmans
Food Lion and Wegmans also tend to close on Christmas Day. These beloved regional chains offer everything from fresh produce to ready-to-eat meals, making them a go-to for many families during the holidays. However, Christmas Day will find their doors closed, so plan your shopping accordingly.
Ralphs and Stop & Shop
Ralphs and Stop & Shop are grocery stores with a wide variety of offerings, but on Christmas, they generally remain closed. You’ll have to make sure you’ve stocked up before Christmas Day to avoid the disappointment of a closed door.
Conclusion: Plan Ahead for Christmas Day Shopping
Christmas 2024 is a time for togetherness, joy, and celebration. Whether you're picking up last-minute groceries or trying to find a gift for someone who dropped by unannounced, understanding which stores are open on Christmas Day is key to navigating the holiday rush. Grocery stores like 7-Eleven, Albertsons, and Safeway can be your go-to spots for essentials, while retailers like Amazon, CVS, and Starbucks offer last-minute gift options.
But remember, some of your favorite stores like Costco, Aldi, and Publix will be closed on Christmas, so planning ahead is crucial. Take note of store hours and keep a list of backup options in case you need them. After all, the best holiday moments come from being prepared, so you can focus on enjoying the spirit of the season with your loved ones!
