As Christmas approaches, shoppers across the United States planning last-minute purchases are being urged to verify store operating hours carefully. With the majority of major retail chains either closing early on Christmas Eve or shutting down entirely for Christmas Day, holiday schedules are seeing significant variations. According to an Associated Press (AP) report, the operating hours can differ widely based on location, with some chains opting for limited schedules while a handful of businesses continue operations through the holiday.
Major Retailers Closed on Christmas Day
A significant number of America's biggest store chains will be closed on December 25th to allow employees to celebrate the holiday with their families. Walmart stores nationwide will remain shut on Christmas Day. The retail giant is scheduled to reopen at 6 a.m. on December 26.
Similarly, all Target locations will be closed for Christmas and plan to resume business at 7 a.m. on December 26. Warehouse club Costco will also keep all its US locations closed for the day.
Grocery chain Kroger will shut its stores on Christmas, returning to regular hours from December 26. A host of other prominent retailers are following suit. Based on the AP roundup, the following stores will also be closed:
- ALDI
- Home Depot
- IKEA
- Lowe's
- Macy's
- Publix
- Trader Joe's
- Whole Foods Market
- Sam's Club
- Sprouts Farmers Market
Stores Open on Christmas Day: Pharmacies, Convenience & Food Chains
While most large-scale retailers are closing, some essential service providers and convenience chains will maintain operations, though often with modified hours. In the pharmacy sector, the situation is mixed. Walgreens has confirmed that its stores will stay open on Christmas Day, though pharmacy hours within those stores may vary. All 24-hour Walgreens locations will continue operating.
For CVS, many locations will function with modified hours. Customers are strongly encouraged to check local store timings online or call ahead before visiting.
In the food and beverage category, popular chains are advising customers to confirm ahead of time. Many Starbucks outlets will be closed, though some may operate with limited hours. Several McDonald's locations across the country traditionally stay open on holidays like Christmas, but operating hours differ by location and franchise owner.
When it comes to convenience stores, Sheetz locations will remain open 24/7, including on Christmas Day. Most 7-Eleven stores will also be open round-the-clock, though some individual locations might operate on adjusted schedules.
Key Advice for Shoppers
The most crucial takeaway for consumers is to double-check local store hours. Holiday schedules can differ dramatically even within the same retail chain, depending on the city, state, or specific franchise agreement. The AP report emphasizes that when in doubt, the best course of action is to call the store directly or refer to its official website for the most accurate and up-to-date information before stepping out.
This practice helps avoid unnecessary travel and disappointment, ensuring that last-minute holiday needs can be met efficiently. For chains like Safeway, where many stores will be closed but some select locations may stay open with adjusted hours, this step is particularly important.
