What stores are open on Christmas Eve 2025? It’s the day before Christmas — December 24 — and you’re scrambling. Maybe the dog chewed up your niece’s gift. Maybe you forgot the brown sugar. Or maybe you just didn’t have time to finish holiday shopping between work, kids, and life. We’ve all been there. That’s why knowing what stores are open on Christmas Eve 2025 can be a serious game-changer. From grabbing last-minute groceries at Walmart to scoring stocking stuffers at Target, this guide breaks down store hours, pro tips, and what to expect for major retailers like Costco, Aldi, CVS, and more.
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What stores are open on Christmas Eve 2025?
So, what stores are open on Christmas Eve 2025? Quite a few — but most close early. Walmart, Costco, Target, and Aldi are open with adjusted hours. Pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens offer limited service, and convenience stores like 7-Eleven keep the lights on for last-minute needs. Just don’t push your luck — the earlier you shop, the better your holiday will go. By planning ahead and using smart shopping tools, you can skip the panic and focus on what matters most: spending time with the people you love.
| Store | Christmas Eve Hours (2025) | Open on Christmas Day? |
|---|---|---|
| Walmart | Likely until 6 PM | Closed |
| Costco | Until 5 PM (local time) | Closed |
| Aldi | ~9 AM – 4 PM | Closed |
| Target | ~7 AM – 8 PM | Closed |
| CVS Pharmacy | Varies, many open | Select locations |
| Walgreens | Open, but varies | Some 24/7 locations |
| 7-Eleven | Open 24/7 (most) | Open |
Major Retailers: What stores are open on Christmas Eve 2025?
Walmart
If you’re in a pinch, Walmart is your go-to. In recent years, Walmart stores have consistently closed around 6 PM on Christmas Eve, with all locations shut down on Christmas Day to give employees time with their families.
Insider tip: Walmart’s mobile app lets you check inventory, reserve items, and schedule pickups. The app is a real time-saver when the store’s packed.
Also:
- Most Walmart pharmacies close earlier than the main store—around 4–5 PM.
- The holiday crowd starts peaking around 2–4 PM. Plan to shop before lunch if possible.
Costco
Costco shoppers know it’s not just about buying in bulk—it’s about buying smart. Most warehouses will operate on shortened hours, opening around 8:30 AM and closing by 5 PM on Christmas Eve.
But here’s what to remember:
- Gas stations at Costco usually shut down at the same time or earlier.
- You can order online, but holiday shipping delays can bite—especially after December 20.
Also note that Costco is completely closed on Christmas Day. That includes all warehouses and services like tire centers and optical departments.
Aldi
The beloved discount grocery chain, Aldi, is known for keeping things lean—no frills, no wasted time, and no long hours. Expect most Aldi locations to be open from 9 AM to 4 PM on Christmas Eve. Doors close promptly, so don’t risk showing up at 3:59 PM.
What to remember:
- Bring a quarter for the shopping cart.
- Aldi checkout lines move fast, but it’s first-come, first-served.
- Aldi is closed on Christmas Day and New Year’s Day, so stock up accordingly.
Target
Target is clutch for last-minute gifts, wrapping supplies, groceries, and more. Most stores are open on December 24 from 7 AM to 8 PM. This gives you plenty of time to find that last-minute toy or box of cookies.
Features to use:
- Drive-Up Pickup: Buy in the app and have it brought to your car.
- Same-day delivery via Shipt (available until 4 PM in most areas).
- Starbucks inside most Targets may close earlier than the store.
Once again, all Target locations are closed on Christmas Day.
Drugstores & Pharmacies: What’s Open?
CVS
CVS Pharmacy is your holiday lifesaver if you need a prescription, medicine, or even quick snacks and toiletries. Many locations will be open on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, although pharmacy counters may have reduced hours.
Important:
- Call ahead to confirm pharmacy vs. store hours.
- CVS MinuteClinic locations will likely be closed both days.
Walgreens
Like CVS, Walgreens has select 24-hour stores that remain open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. This includes the front-of-store sections and some pharmacy counters.
Tips:
- Most 24/7 stores stick to their regular schedule.
- Pharmacy hours may be reduced or require an appointment.
For urgent care items or late-night needs, Walgreens can be a reliable option.
Convenience Stores & Gas Stations: Always On
While big-box stores go dark early, many convenience stores stay open. These spots are perfect for drinks, snacks, ice, toiletries, and basic over-the-counter meds.
Stores typically open 24/7 on Christmas Eve:
- 7-Eleven
- Wawa
- Sheetz
- Circle K
- Pilot/Flying J
Gas station marts also usually stay open. However, alcohol sales might be restricted depending on state/local laws, especially after certain hours.
Online Retailers: Same-Day Solutions
Still not ready to brave the crowds? Many online retailers offer same-day delivery or curbside pickup if you act before noon on December 24:
- Amazon Prime Now (in select cities)
- Target Same-Day Delivery via Shipt
- Walmart Express Delivery
- Instacart (for groceries)
- DoorDash & Uber Eats (retail partners in some cities)
However, order volume is high on Christmas Eve, and inventory runs low. Make sure your order is confirmed and backed up with real-time tracking.
What stores are open on Christmas Eve 2025: Real Stats Behind the Rush
Here’s why store schedules on December 24 matter so much:
- According to the National Retail Federation (NRF), more than 142 million Americans shopped in the final days before Christmas in 2023 — that’s over 50% of all holiday shoppers.
- A 2024 Deloitte Holiday Survey revealed that 33% of shoppers wait until Christmas Eve to make final purchases — especially for groceries and toys.
- NRF forecasts retail sales in the U.S. will reach over $960 billion during the 2025 holiday season.
What does this mean for you? Expect long lines, crowded parking lots, and sold-out items — unless you shop early or use online pickup options.
Tips to Survive the Christmas Eve Shopping Chaos
- Make a list (check it twice)
Write down every item you need. Group by store to avoid double trips. - Go early
Most crowds arrive after 2 PM. Shopping before 11 AM can save you stress and time. - Check local hours
Store hours vary by city and region. Always verify hours using the official store locator. - Use apps to your advantage
Walmart, Target, and CVS apps offer real-time updates on stock, wait times, and curbside pickup. - Avoid driving across town
Gas stations may see increased traffic. Use GPS or traffic apps to navigate holiday congestion.
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