Christmas Day: What’s Open and What’s Closed
Merry Christmas is in the air, with opportunities to pick up a warm cup of coffee, last-minute ingredients for a favorite holiday recipe, or a special new outfit for Christmas dinner. In that regard, knowing what’s open on this special day and, most importantly, what will be closed on Christmas is quite essential. Unfortunately for most consumers, there won’t be much variety on this holiday.
Stores and Retailers
Most grocery stores, restaurants, and national retailers are closed on Christmas Day. Walmart, Target, and Costco are among those that close for the holiday. Some smaller convenience stores, such as 7-Eleven, and pharmacies, including CVS and Walgreens, might be open but generally with limited hours.
The best option is to check online or call to confirm the specific hours for the store closest to you.
Banks and Post Offices
Banks, post offices, and courier companies like FedEx and UPS will close their operations on Christmas Day.
. The stock market is off for the holiday as well. So, all trading comes to a halt until business opens again.
Restaurants
Many restaurants will be closed on Christmas Day but other restaurants will open and can provide a festive meal to take outside of the house. Chain restaurants such as Denny’s and IHOP are known to operate on Christmas, along with many Chinese food establishments, which have become a popular choice for Christmas dining in the United States. Always check the specific location’s hours as these can vary widely.
Gas Stations and Convenience Stores
Usually, gas stations and convenience stores are good bets for those who wish to get some essentials or fill up their gas tanks on Christmas Day. Most places stay open, but hours are often cut short. These shops are available for tourists and locals alike to enjoy the services offered during the holiday.
Entertainment Places
If you’re looking for something fun to do, movie theaters are one of the few entertainment venues that commonly stay open on Christmas Day. Many people enjoy making a trip to the movies part of their holiday tradition, especially with new films often premiering during this time. Be sure to check showtimes and availability before heading out.
Online Shopping
For those who do not like going out, online shopping sites such as Amazon are available, and you can order at any time, but deliveries are usually stopped for the day, so expect delays in receiving your goods.
Plan Ahead
It would be a good idea to prepare ahead of time given the wide-scale closures so you are all set for Christmas Day. Make sure to double-check local store and restaurant hours online so you’re not inconvenienced. Whether staying home or going out, knowing what’s open will help you make the most of the holiday.
