If you forgot an ingredient for dinner or need to pick up a last-minute gift on Christmas Day, you’re in luck—though your options will be more limited than usual. Most major retailers close their doors on December 25th to give employees time with their families, but a handful of stores remain open for those in a pinch.
Several grocery stores and pharmacies will be operating on Christmas Day, though hours may vary by location. Albertsons, Safeway, and Vons will keep some stores open for holiday shoppers. CVS and Walgreens will also have select locations available, particularly their 24-hour stores, making them reliable options for pharmacy needs or forgotten essentials.
Stores open on Christmas Day 2025
Convenience stores and gas stations offer your best bet for last-minute items. 7-Eleven and Circle K typically remain open throughout the holiday, providing quick access to snacks, drinks, and basic necessities.
However, the majority of major retailers will be closed. Walmart, Target, Costco, and Sam’s Club will all shut down for the day. Grocery chains, including Kroger, Publix, Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, and Wegmans, will also be closed. Dollar stores like Dollar General, Family Dollar, and Dollar Tree won’t be operating either.
What about federal services on Christmas Day 2025?
For those considering other services, it’s important to note that mail delivery will be suspended on Christmas Day. The U.S. Postal Service, UPS, and FedEx will all be closed with no deliveries. Banks follow the Federal Reserve’s holiday schedule and will also be closed, along with the stock exchanges.
All federal, state, and local government offices will be closed on Christmas, including courts. If you need to run essential errands, plan accordingly or wait until December 26th when most businesses resume normal operations.
Before heading out on Christmas Day, it’s wise to call ahead and confirm that your local store is open, as individual locations may have different policies or reduced hours. With some planning, you can still handle those forgotten items while most of the country celebrates at home.