Christmas Day is a federal holiday in the United States, and as expected, most major services, retailers, and institutions will close on December 25. For anyone hoping to squeeze in last-minute shopping, run quick errands, or even grab a coffee, options will be limited. While a small number of grocery stores, pharmacies, and restaurants may operate on reduced schedules, many well-known retail chains will remain closed nationwide.

Major retailers such as Walmart, Target, Costco, Best Buy, and Macy’s traditionally shut their doors on Christmas Day, giving employees time off to spend with family. Most of these stores are expected to reopen on December 26, often referred to as Boxing Day in retail calendars, with regular or extended hours.

Retail stores and grocery chains

To start, Walmart will be closed throughout Christmas Day and is scheduled to reopen at 6 a.m. on December 26. Target will also remain closed on December 25, reopening at 7 a.m. the following day. Costco warehouses across the United States will not operate on Christmas Day 2025, continuing the company’s long-standing holiday policy. Similarly, Kroger has confirmed that all of its stores will be closed, resuming normal hours on December 26.

Meanwhile, Albertsons locations will vary by region. While many stores will be closed, some may operate with adjusted holiday hours. Safeway follows a similar model, with select locations opening for limited periods depending on local management. Because of these regional differences, customers are strongly encouraged to check with their local store before heading out.

In addition, ALDI, Publix, Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, Harris Teeter, Sprouts Farmers Market, Sam’s Club, and Meijer will be closed nationwide. Department and specialty retailers, including Macy’s, JCPenney, Burlington, Belk, Victoria’s Secret, American Eagle, Barnes & Noble, IKEA, Home Depot, Lowe’s, REI, Tractor Supply Company, Staples, Office Depot, and OfficeMax, will also remain closed on Christmas Day 2025.

Pharmacies and convenience stores

Despite widespread closures, some essential services will still be available. Walgreens stores will remain open nationwide, although pharmacy hours may vary by location. Stores that operate on a 24-hour schedule are expected to continue normal operations.

Similarly, CVS locations are expected to open with modified holiday hours. Customers are advised to confirm hours in advance, as not all locations will operate on the same schedule.

When it comes to reliability, convenience stores tend to offer the most consistent access on Christmas Day. Most 7-Eleven locations will remain open around the clock, though hours may vary at select stores. Sheetz has confirmed it will operate on its regular 24-hour schedule.

Restaurants and coffee shops

Restaurant availability on Christmas Day will depend largely on location and franchise ownership. Many McDonald’s restaurants across the U.S. will remain open, but hours will vary widely.

Starbucks will operate selectively, with some stores closing entirely while others open for limited hours. As always, checking store locators or mobile apps remains the most accurate way to confirm availability.

Mail, banks, and government services

In addition to retail closures, mail delivery will be suspended nationwide on Christmas Day 2025. The U.S. Postal Service will close all post offices, and there will be no residential or commercial delivery. Both FedEx and UPS will also suspend services for the holiday.

Banks across the country will be closed in observance of the federal holiday, although some may operate with reduced hours on Christmas Eve. Financial markets, including the New York Stock Exchange and Nasdaq, will also be closed. Likewise, federal, state, and local government offices, along with courts, will not operate on December 25.

Plan before heading out

Ultimately, Christmas Day offers very few guarantees when it comes to open doors. For anyone planning last-minute errands, confirming local hours ahead of time remains the safest approach. When in doubt, checking store websites, apps, or calling ahead can help avoid unnecessary trips on a day when most of the country slows down.

Featured image: Getty Images

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