As families gather to celebrate the festive season, many wonder what services and stores remain open on Christmas Day. Unlike other holidays, most retailers, grocery chains, and restaurants close their doors to allow employees a day off. However, some establishments do stay open for those in need of last-minute essentials. This article provides an overview of which stores and services you can expect to find operational on December 25th.

Retail and Grocery Store Accessibility on Christmas

For those needing basic supplies or gifts, certain retail and grocery stores will be accessible, albeit with limited hours. While major department stores and superstores like Costco, Kohl’s, Sam’s Club, Target, and Walmart will be closed, a few grocery chains will remain partially open. Acme Markets, Albertsons, Giant Food, Safeway, and Vons have select locations that will operate on reduced schedules. Checking local store hours online is highly recommended to avoid disappointment.

In more detail, Acme Markets will operate under limited hours, while only a few Albertsons locations will be open with shortened operating times. Giant Food has announced that selected stores will be open from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., but all pharmacies will be closed except for three specific locations in Maryland. Safeway and Vons also have limited availability, with some stores remaining open on Christmas. On the other hand, Aldi, Food Lion, Kroger, Publix, Stop & Shop, Trader Joe’s, and Whole Foods will be completely closed on December 25th. It's essential to verify the status of your nearest store before heading out.

Pharmacies, Fast-Food Chains, and Restaurants on Christmas Day

When it comes to healthcare needs and dining options, several pharmacies and fast-food outlets will remain open on Christmas Day. CVS Pharmacy locations will generally be open, although with potential reduced hours. Similarly, Giant Food pharmacies in Catonsville, Bethesda, and Pikesville, Maryland, will provide limited service. For those craving a quick meal, McDonald’s, Dunkin’, and Starbucks are likely to have numerous locations open, though hours may vary by location. Checking ahead via apps or websites is advisable.

To elaborate, while most pharmacies will be closed, CVS Pharmacy and three specific Giant Food pharmacy locations will offer limited services. As for dining, popular fast-food chains such as McDonald’s, Dunkin’, and Starbucks will have various locations open, but customers should confirm hours through respective apps or websites. Additionally, some sit-down restaurants and fast-food chains like IHOP and Sheetz will remain open, offering meals and made-to-order food. However, notable closures include Cheddar’s Scratch Kitchen, Chick-fil-A, Chili’s, Chipotle, Eddie V’s, Longhorn Steakhouse, Olive Garden, Outback Steakhouse, Ruth’s Chris Steak House, Seasons 52, The Capital Grille, and Yard House. Planning ahead and checking individual store statuses is crucial to ensure a smooth experience on this special day.