We have all been there.
It’s 10:00 AM on Christmas morning. The wrapping paper is flying, the kids are screaming with joy, and you head to the kitchen to start the feast. That’s when it hits you: You forgot the butter. Or maybe the batteries for the new toy. Or maybe you just desperately need a double-shot latte to survive the chaos.
Suddenly, the most important question of the day isn’t “has Santa been?” but rather: “What is actually open right now?”
Don’t panic. While most of the United States shuts down on December 25th to allow employees to celebrate, there are still plenty of places keeping the lights on for last-minute emergencies and holiday meals.
Here is your complete guide to what is open on Christmas Day 2025.
First, The Bad News: What Is Closed?
Before you grab your keys, let’s save you a wasted trip. The biggest retailers in America generally close their doors completely on Christmas Day. Do not head to these stores; they will be dark.
- Walmart (Closed)
- Target (Closed)
- Costco (Closed)
- Home Depot & Lowe’s (Closed)
- Best Buy (Closed)
- Trader Joe’s & Whole Foods (Closed)
- Aldi (Closed)
If you need a gift or a major grocery haul, you are out of luck until December 26th.
Grocery Stores: Slim Pickings
Finding a major supermarket open on Christmas Day is tough. Most chains like Kroger, Publix, and H-E-B are closed. However, you do have a few potential options depending on where you live.
- Safeway / Albertsons: In previous years, select locations in certain states have remained open with reduced hours (often 8 AM – 4 PM). You must call your local store to confirm.
- Giant Food: Some locations in the DC/Maryland/Virginia area often stay open for limited hours.
- Local Asian Markets: If you have a local H Mart or 99 Ranch Market, check them! Many international grocery stores remain open on Christmas Day and are perfect for grabbing produce or meats.
Pharmacies: The Real MVPs
When you need batteries, milk, ice, or last-minute gifts, the drugstore is your best friend on Christmas Day.
- CVS: Most 24-hour locations will remain open all day. Non-24-hour stores usually operate on reduced hours (often 8 AM – 9 PM).
- Walgreens / Duane Reade: Similar to CVS, most 24-hour locations stay open. Other locations will likely have reduced holiday hours.
- Rite Aid: Many locations remain open, some 24/7, but verify locally.
Tip: The pharmacy counters (where you get prescriptions) inside these stores often close early or stay closed entirely, even if the front of the store is open.
Coffee Runs: Starbucks & Dunkin’
Need caffeine? You have a 50/50 shot.
- Starbucks: Many locations are open, but hours vary wildly. Some open late (7 AM) and close early (2 PM). It depends entirely on whether the local manager could find staff who volunteered to work. Check the app before you drive!
- Dunkin’: Many Dunkin’ locations stay open, especially in the Northeast, but again—hours are franchise-dependent.
Restaurants: Breakfast & Diners
If you burned the turkey or just want pancakes, these chains are reliable options.
- Denny’s: They are famous for being open 24/7/365. Christmas is actually their busiest day of the year.
- IHOP: Most locations are open, but hours may vary (e.g., closing at 2 PM).
- Waffle House: If Waffle House is closed, it’s a natural disaster. They will be open.
- Perkins: Most locations are open with a special holiday menu.
Dinner Options: Steak & Takeout
- Chinese Restaurants: It is a beloved tradition for a reason. almost all local Chinese restaurants remain open on Christmas Day.
- McDonald’s: Corporate locations often stay open, but franchises (which are most of them) decide for themselves. Call ahead.
- Fogo de Chão: If you want a fancy meat feast, they are usually open.
- Ruth’s Chris Steak House: Open and serving full dinners, but you absolutely need a reservation.
- Benihana: Open for a hibachi Christmas.
Convenience Stores: The “I Forgot Everything” Backup
If all else fails, the convenience store is there for you.
- 7-Eleven: Open 24/7.
- Wawa: Open 24/7 (and usually selling hoagies).
- Sheetz: Open 24/7.
- Cumberland Farms: Open.
- Speedway: Open.
Final Advice: The Golden Rule
Please call ahead.
This cannot be stressed enough. “Open” on Google Maps doesn’t always mean open on Christmas. Staffing shortages or last-minute decisions can close a store unexpectedly. A 30-second phone call is better than driving to a dark parking lot.
Merry Christmas, and good luck finding that butter!
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. The hours and availability listed above are based on historical trends, corporate announcements, and general holiday schedules for the 2025 holiday season. However, most of these businesses operate as franchises, meaning individual store owners have the final say on their specific hours. Staffing shortages or local regulations may also cause last-minute closures. We strongly recommend calling your local store or checking their specific location on Google Maps before leaving your home. The author and publisher of this post are not responsible for any wasted trips, closed doors, or lack of coffee.