Are stores open on Christmas Eve?

Many stores are open on Christmas Eve with reduced hours. Most retail stores operate on a shortened schedule.

What stores are closed on Christmas Eve?

Very few stores close on Christmas Eve. Most retailers operate with regular or slightly reduced hours. Banks, post offices, and government offices may close if it is a federal holiday.

Is Walmart open on Christmas Eve?

Yes, Walmart is typically open on Christmas Eve, though hours may be reduced. Individual locations may vary, so check your local store's holiday schedule.

Stores Open on Christmas Eve

December 24

Most stores open with significantly reduced hours, typically closing by mid-afternoon (2-6 PM). Grocery stores usually close early. Last-minute shopping means stores that are open tend to be busy.

40 stores open

48 reduced hours

0 stores closed

Christmas Eve 2026 is December 24, 2026 - set a reminder:

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Christmas Eve Store Hours Guide

Christmas Eve is the last chance for holiday shopping, gift returns, and grocery runs before the Christmas Day shutdown. Most stores open on December 24th, but nearly all of them close significantly earlier than usual - often by mid-afternoon.

Grocery stores are open on Christmas Eve and tend to be very busy in the morning hours. If you need ingredients for Christmas dinner or forgot to pick up something, go early. Most grocery chains close between 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM on Christmas Eve. The later in the day you go, the more picked-over the shelves will be, especially for fresh items like meat, produce, and bakery goods.

Department stores and electronics retailers open on Christmas Eve for last-minute gift shoppers. Expect reduced hours - most close between 4:00 PM and 6:00 PM. Mall-based stores follow the mall's holiday hours, which typically end between 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM. This is one of the busier shopping days of the year despite the shortened schedule, so be prepared for crowds and longer checkout lines.

Home improvement stores like Home Depot and Lowe's usually close by early afternoon on Christmas Eve, around 3:00 PM to 5:00 PM. If you need supplies for a project or last-minute decorations, go in the morning.

Pharmacies keep select locations open with reduced hours. Some CVS and Walgreens locations will stay open later into the evening, but most close by 6:00 PM or 8:00 PM. If you need a prescription, handle it early in the day to be safe.

Restaurants are split on Christmas Eve. Many sit-down restaurants close, while fast food and some casual dining chains stay open with reduced hours. If you are planning to eat out on Christmas Eve, check the specific restaurant's holiday schedule and consider making a reservation.