Christmas Eve has arrived, but there’s still time for any last dashes to the stores. Before you head out for final gifts, food or decorations, review which retailers are closing up early and which are open for the holiday hustle.
While not as widespread as on Christmas Day, many major chains still truncate hours or close entirely on Christmas Eve. Schedules can also vary by location, so call ahead if you’re unsure about your local shops.
To help make your last-minute errands less hectic, here’s a breakdown of Christmas Eve hours for top retailers:
Walmart Jingles ‘Closing at 6 p.m.’ Across Stores
Walmart locations will shut their doors at 6 p.m. on Christmas Eve, far earlier than its trademark late-night schedules. So cross off your Walmart list by Saturday evening, as the retailer won’t reopen until December 26th for exchanges and post-holiday deals.
Target Unwraps Doors Until 8 p.m. for Last-Minute Needs
Target will operate from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m. on Christmas Eve at most spots, making it a prime destination for picking up smaller stocking stuffers, gift cards, holiday candy and more. Confirm your local timing here.
Costco Warehouses Welcome Shoppers 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Bulk shoppers can load up on holiday essentials and treats at Costco between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. on Christmas Eve. Hours can vary by warehouse, so verify your store’s schedule here before going. Expect closures on Christmas Day.
CVS Pharmacy Hours May Shift for the Holiday
Many 24-hour CVS branches will maintain regular hours on Christmas Eve. However, some locations not open 24/7 may truncate hours or close for the holiday. Calling ahead about pharmacy hours is prudent.
It’s Business as Usual for Most Walgreens
Walgreens will operate during normal hours on Christmas Eve at most spots, making it an accessible option for prescriptions, grocery essentials, batteries or gift wrap. Still, confirming pharmacy hours for your neighborhood store is advised.
Independent Starbucks Set Seasonal Schedules
While many Starbucks locations remain open on Christmas Eve, hours can fluctuate – with the company noting stores may adapt operations to “business and customer needs” during the holidays. So check for updates online before heading over.
Kroger Closes Up Shop Early Across Store Banners
Kroger supermarket branches – including chains like Ralphs, Fred Meyer and more – will close early on Christmas Eve, with times varying across store banners and regions. Fuel centers may also have distinct holiday schedules.
Other Grocery Stores Scale Back Christmas Eve Hours
In addition to Kroger, other grocery titans also reduce hours for Christmas Eve, including:
- Albertsons – Most locations open shortened hours until 5 or 7 p.m. Pharmacies may also have limited holiday schedules.
- Aldi – Stores will follow limited Christmas Eve schedules by location this year.
- Harris Teeter – Shutting doors at 7 p.m. on Christmas Eve.
- Jewel-Osco – Reduced hours, verify your neighborhood holiday times.
- Publix – Closing at 7 p.m., though some spots may vary.
- Safeway – Shortened hours, with pharmacy schedules potentially differing. Check your local times.
Home Improvement Retailers Deck Halls Earlier
Home Depot, Lowe’s and other home improvement chains will welcome last-minute holiday decorators until 6 p.m. on Christmas Eve. So if you still need lights, a tree topper or wreath hanging kit, shop early.
Department Stores Give Employees the ‘Close Up Shop’ Gift
Major department stores like Macy’s, Nordstrom and others will unwrap the gift of an early closure for employees this Christmas Eve. Expect abbreviated hours, with potential variance:
- Macy’s – Most locations shut at 7 or 8 p.m.
- Nordstrom – Hours vary, but most stores close by 6 p.m.
- JCPenney – Closing at 6 or 8 p.m. depending on location.
- Kohl’s – Doors shut at 6 p.m. Christmas Eve.
Additional Retailers Shut Down for Santa’s Arrival
Other retailers joining the early closure spree on Christmas Eve include:
- Bed Bath & Beyond – Closing at 6 p.m., though hours may vary.
- Best Buy – Shuttering at 6 p.m., an hour before typical Saturday hours.
- Dick’s Sporting Goods- Locking doors at 6 p.m.
- IKEA – Operating 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. before closing at 5 p.m.
- Marshalls – Most locations open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Michaels – Shutting down at 6 p.m.
- Petco – Running on 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. holiday hours.
- Sam’s Club – Closing at 6 p.m.
- Sprouts Farmers Market – Open until 7 p.m.
- Trader Joe’s – Closing all stores at 5 p.m.
Gas Stations and Convenience Stores Offer 24/7 Holiday Access
Major gas station and convenience chains like 7-Eleven, Circle K, Wawa and Sheetz continue 24/7 operations on Christmas Eve. So they have you covered for essentials like drinks, snacks, stocking stuffers or batteries in a bind.
The Inside Scoop on Holiday Store Hours
With many retailers shutting up shop early on Christmas Eve, advance planning is key to checking everything off your list in time. Target stores with later hours first, and call ahead about pharmacy schedules when picking up items.
For small last-minute gifts, convenience stores can save the day. And remember, Christmas Day will bring widespread closures, so complete all shopping on Christmas Eve. With smart planning, you can avoid headaches and enjoy some holiday family time before Santa’s visit.
