Christmas Day 2024: What’s Open and Closed in the US?

Christmas Day presents a unique challenge for last-minute errands, whether grabbing a few groceries or finding a festive outfit. Many stores and major retailers are operational, albeit with reduced holiday hours. It’s always wise to check online for the exact schedules of specific stores before heading out.

For those needing essentials, many businesses are accommodating but often close early. Grocery stores typically have shorter hours so staff can enjoy the holiday with their families, and pharmacies along with other essential services might also have limited availability. To avoid inconvenience, planning is recommended.

Key Closures on Christmas Day

Banks and Post Offices: All banks, post offices, and major shipping services, in addition to the stock market, will be closed on Christmas Day.

Retail Stores Closing on Christmas

• Walmart and Target: Both retail giants will be closed on December 25. The companies have confirmed that normal operations will resume post-holiday, so planning shopping before or after Christmas is advisable.
• Costco and Sam’s Club: These warehouse giants will remain closed, observing the holiday, and will reopen on their usual schedule afterward.
• Home Improvement Stores: Leading fixtures like Home Depot and Lowe’s will not open their doors on Christmas Day. While Ace Hardware stores operate independently, the majority will likely be closed as well.

Grocery Store Hours and Availability

Closed Major Chains: Grocery leaders such as Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, and Kroger along with Kroger’s umbrella brands like Ralphs and Smith’s Food and Drug, won’t be open on December 25.

Limited Options: Certain chains, including ACME, Albertsons, and Safeway, may have select stores operating with reduced hours. For instance, Giant Food stores are scheduled to be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Remember that pharmacy sections may not follow the same hours, so checking online is prudent.

Pharmacy Services on Christmas Day

• CVS: Many CVS locations will remain open, but possibly on reduced hours.
• Walgreens: Store hours will predominantly be from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m., maintaining normal operations at most 24-hour locations and pharmacies.

Shipping and Delivery Services

Both UPS and FedEx will halt pickup and delivery services but will continue their critical operations via UPS Express Critical and FedEx Custom Critical for urgent needs. Customers should confirm specific FedEx Office timings in advance, as most locations will shut down for the day.

Make sure to verify your destination store hours online for a hassle-free shopping experience on Christmas Day 2024.