Christmas Day is known for closed doors and quiet streets, but real life does not stop on December 25. Whether you need last minute groceries, medicine, fuel, or a hot meal, many people search online for stores open on Christmas hoping to find reliable answers. The good news is that while most big retailers shut down for the holiday, several essential stores remain open, often with limited hours.
Knowing what stores are open on Christmas Day ahead of time can save you from unnecessary trips and stress. Here is a complete and verified breakdown to help you plan better.
Which Stores Are Open on Christmas Day
Not all stores follow the same holiday schedule. While department stores and malls usually close, convenience stores, pharmacies, and gas stations often stay open to serve essential needs. These locations are usually independently operated or run with reduced staff.
If you are wondering what is open on Christmas Day near you, the following categories are the most reliable.
Grocery Stores Open on Christmas Day
Most major grocery chains close nationwide on Christmas Day. However, a few grocery style stores and markets remain open, especially those attached to convenience outlets or operating independently.
Here are grocery and food related stores that are commonly open on Christmas Day, though hours may vary by location:
- 7 Eleven
- Wawa
- Circle K
- Speedway
- Sheetz
- Casey’s General Store
- Local independent grocery stores
- International and ethnic food markets
Large chains such as Walmart, Target, Costco, Kroger, Publix, Aldi, and Trader Joe’s are closed nationwide on Christmas Day. Many shoppers search is Walmart open on Christmas Day or is Target open on Christmas, and the answer remains no for both.
Pharmacies and Drugstores Open on Christmas
Pharmacies are among the most important stores open on Christmas, especially for families needing medication, cold remedies, or medical supplies. These stores usually operate on reduced hours, but they are often lifesavers during the holiday.
Commonly open pharmacies include:
- CVS
- Walgreens
- Rite Aid (select locations)
Some pharmacy counters may close earlier, but the retail sections often stay open. If you are asking is CVS open on Christmas Day, many locations are, especially in urban areas.
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Convenience Stores Open on Christmas Day
Convenience stores are the most reliable answer when people ask what stores are open on Christmas Day. Many of these locations operate 24 hours and remain open regardless of holidays.
Popular convenience store chains open on Christmas include:
- 7 Eleven
- Circle K
- Speedway
- Wawa
- Sheetz
These stores provide snacks, beverages, basic groceries, toiletries, and household essentials when other stores are closed.
Gas Stations Open on Christmas
Travel does not stop on Christmas, which is why gas stations are almost always open. Most major fuel brands operate normally or with minimal changes.
Gas stations typically open on Christmas Day include:
- Shell
- Exxon
- Chevron
- BP
- Sunoco
Stations attached to convenience stores are especially dependable. Searches like are gas stations open on Christmas usually lead to several nearby options.
Restaurants Open on Christmas Day
Finding food on Christmas Day can be challenging, but some restaurants remain open, especially those that traditionally serve holiday travelers or operate independently.
Restaurants commonly open on Christmas include:
- Denny’s
- IHOP
- Select McDonald’s locations
- Local Chinese and family owned restaurants
Many people search what is open on Christmas Day hoping to find dining options, and local restaurants often fill that gap.
Stores That Are Closed on Christmas Day
To avoid confusion, it is just as important to know which stores are closed. The following retailers are typically closed nationwide on December 25:
Walmart
Target
Costco
Best Buy
Home Depot
Lowe’s
Kroger
Publix
Aldi
Trader Joe’s
Most shopping malls
Knowing this helps avoid wasted trips and frustration.
Christmas Day Store Hours Can Vary
Even among stores open on Christmas, hours can differ widely by location. Some may open late or close early. The best way to confirm is by checking Google Maps, store websites, or calling the location directly before heading out.
Search terms like stores open on Christmas Day near me or what grocery stores are open on Christmas Day usually show real time updates, but direct confirmation is always safest.
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Planning Ahead Makes Christmas Easier
Christmas Day does not have to be inconvenient. While many retailers close, essential services remain available across most cities and towns. Pharmacies, convenience stores, gas stations, and select restaurants ensure that emergencies and basic needs are covered.
Understanding which stores open on Christmas helps you plan smarter, reduce stress, and enjoy the holiday without unnecessary interruptions.
Frequently Asked Questions About Stores Open on Christmas
What stores are open on Christmas Day?
Convenience stores, gas stations, select pharmacies, and some restaurants are open on Christmas Day. Stores like 7 Eleven, CVS, Walgreens, Shell, and Denny’s usually remain open, though hours may vary by location.
Are grocery stores open on Christmas Day?
Most large grocery chains are closed on Christmas Day. However, some independent grocery stores, convenience stores, and smaller local markets may remain open with limited hours.
Is Walmart open on Christmas Day?
No, Walmart is closed nationwide on Christmas Day. All Walmart locations shut their doors on December 25.
Is Target open on Christmas Day?
Target stores are closed on Christmas Day across the United States. Normal hours resume the following day.
Are pharmacies open on Christmas Day?
Yes, many CVS and Walgreens locations are open on Christmas Day. Pharmacy counters may operate reduced hours, so checking locally is recommended.
Are gas stations open on Christmas?
Most gas stations remain open on Christmas Day, especially those operated independently or attached to convenience stores.
What restaurants are open on Christmas Day?
Restaurants like Denny’s, IHOP, some McDonald’s locations, and many local or Chinese restaurants are open on Christmas Day.
How can I find stores open on Christmas near me?
Use Google Maps or search phrases like “stores open on Christmas Day near me” to see real time results. Calling the store directly is the most reliable option.