As Christmas Day 2025 approaches, shoppers across the United States are making their final preparations. For those with last-minute needs, knowing which stores will be open is crucial. This year, the vast majority of major national retailers will be shutting their doors to allow staff to spend the holiday with their families.
Major Retailers Confirm Christmas Day Closures
Leading the list of closures are some of the biggest names in American retail. Walmart, Target, and Costco have all confirmed they will be closed on Thursday, 25 December 2025. They are joined by several other large chains, including grocery giant Kroger, discount supermarket Aldi, home improvement retailer Home Depot, and department store Macy's.
This widespread closure reflects a growing industry standard of giving employees the day off for the national holiday. Customers are advised to complete any essential shopping at these stores ahead of time, on Christmas Eve or earlier in the week.
Modified Hours and Essential Services Available
While the big-box stores will be shut, some essential services and businesses will operate with reduced schedules. Chains such as CVS, Starbucks, and Albertsons are expected to have modified or limited hours on Christmas Day. The specific opening times will vary significantly by location, so patrons are strongly urged to check their local store listings or contact the branch directly before making a journey.
For pharmacy needs, Walgreens has announced that its stores will generally be open on Christmas Day. However, it is important to note that pharmacy counter hours within these stores may differ from the store's own operating times. Furthermore, any 24-hour Walgreens locations are planned to operate on their usual around-the-clock schedule.
Convenience Stores Offer a Lifeline
For those in need of snacks, drinks, or other basic items, convenience stores will be the most reliable option. Chains like Sheetz and the majority of 7-Eleven locations are anticipated to remain open throughout the holiday. Many of these outlets operate on a 24/7 basis year-round, and Christmas Day is typically no exception, providing a vital service for travellers and local residents alike.
The pattern of closures and limited openings underscores the balance between commercial activity and holiday observance in the US. While the retail giants pause, a skeleton network of pharmacies and convenience stores ensures that essential supplies remain within reach for those who need them most on Christmas Day.
