whats open on christmas

3 min read 22-01-2025

Meta Description: Planning your Christmas Day? This comprehensive guide reveals what stores, restaurants, and services are open on Christmas, plus what's typically closed, helping you avoid holiday disappointment! Find out where to grab a meal, pick up last-minute essentials, or enjoy some festive fun, even on Christmas Day.

What's Open on Christmas Day?

Christmas Day is a special time for family and friends, but sometimes you need to run errands or grab a bite to eat. Knowing what businesses are open on December 25th can save you time and frustration. This guide will help you navigate the holiday hours and find what you need.

Grocery Stores & Supermarkets: Christmas Day Shopping

Generally, most large grocery chains and supermarkets are closed on Christmas Day. This is a day dedicated to their employees spending time with loved ones. However, some smaller, independently owned stores might have limited hours or remain closed. It's best to check with your local stores directly.

What to do if you need groceries on Christmas:

Plan Ahead: Stock up on essentials before Christmas Eve.
Check Local Options: Some smaller convenience stores or gas station mini-marts might have limited supplies open.
Delivery Services: Consider using a grocery delivery service in advance.

Restaurants & Eateries: Where to Find a Christmas Day Meal

Many restaurants are closed on Christmas Day, but some remain open, often with special holiday menus. These typically include fast-food chains (though hours may be reduced), some family-style restaurants, and perhaps a few upscale establishments catering to holiday diners.

Finding a Restaurant Open on Christmas Day:

Check Online: Use online restaurant finders or apps, filtering for Christmas Day hours.
Call Ahead: Always call the restaurant directly to confirm hours and availability, especially for reservations.
Consider Hotel Restaurants: Hotels sometimes maintain restaurant services for guests and the public on Christmas.

Pharmacies & Drugstores: Essential Services on Christmas

Finding open pharmacies on Christmas Day can be tricky. While many locations are closed, some larger chains maintain limited hours at select locations, typically those within larger shopping complexes or hospitals.

Locating an Open Pharmacy on Christmas:

Check Major Chains' Websites: Review the websites of major drugstore chains for store locator tools and holiday hours.
Look for 24-Hour Locations: Some pharmacies in larger cities or within hospitals operate 24/7.
Emergency Services: Remember that hospitals and urgent care facilities always remain open for medical emergencies.

Transportation Services: Getting Around on Christmas

Public transportation services like buses and trains usually operate on a reduced schedule, or may be completely closed, on Christmas Day. Check with your local transit authority for specific details. Taxi and ride-sharing services (like Uber and Lyft) are typically available, but expect higher surge pricing due to reduced availability.

Other Businesses: What Else Might Be Open on Christmas?

Movie Theatres: Some movie theaters may offer special Christmas Day screenings.
Gas Stations: Many gas stations, particularly those attached to convenience stores, will remain open with reduced hours.
Emergency Services: Hospitals, fire departments, and police stations are always open.

What's Typically Closed on Christmas Day?

Most businesses are closed on Christmas Day. This includes:

Most retail stores: Big box stores, department stores, and smaller shops are generally closed.
Banks and Financial Institutions: Banks and credit unions are closed.
Post Offices: USPS and most private mail delivery services don't operate.
Government Offices: Federal, state, and local government offices are closed.

Planning Your Christmas Day: Key Takeaways

Christmas Day hours vary significantly depending on the type of business and location. Always check directly with the businesses you plan to visit before heading out, especially on Christmas Eve to confirm their Christmas Day hours. Proper planning will ensure a smooth and enjoyable holiday. Remember to be patient and understanding; many employees are working on this special day to accommodate your needs. Happy Holidays!