Published on December 25, 2025
Christmas Day on 25 December 2025 is a federal holiday in the United States, which means most government offices, banks, post offices, courts and federal services are closed for the day. This closure also influences retail operations, because many businesses follow commonly accepted holiday practices even though private companies decide their own hours.
For travellers and residents in the USA, this means that the day itself has significantly reduced shopping options, especially when it comes to large grocery chains and mainstream retail stores. Planning ahead helps avoid unnecessary travel or disappointment.

Key Effects of Christmas Day as a Federal Holiday on Shopping

• Government services are closed (no mail delivery, banks, or public facilities).
• Most stores will be closed for the entire day, limiting access to essentials.
• Major chains usually reduce hours on Christmas Eve (24 Dec) before full closure on Christmas Day (25 Dec).

Stores That Are Closed on Christmas Day 2025

For travellers who may need to buy food, gifts, or supplies, it’s important to know that the majority of major retailers and grocery stores will be closed, including:

• Walmart – all stores closed on Christmas Day.
• Target – closed for the holiday.
• Costco – all warehouses are not open.
• Kroger and its banners – all Kroger stores nationwide will be closed.
• Aldi – stores will not operate.
• Home Depot, Lowe’s, Best Buy – all closed.
• Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, Publix, Sam’s Club – closed for Dec. 25.
This means that big‑box shopping and bulk groceries will not be available on Christmas Day, so travellers needing supplies before that date should plan accordingly.

Travel Tip

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If you are travelling through airports or on road trips on Christmas Day, major retailer closures mean your only options will be convenience stores and some pharmacies, not large grocery outlets.

Stores and Outlets Open on Christmas Day (2025)

Although most big chains are closed, there are still several locations open for essential needs, usually with modified hours. Availability can vary by location, so it’s crucial to confirm hours before visiting.

Convenience Stores

• 7‑Eleven – most locations open and operating 24/7, including Christmas Day.
• Circle K – locations typically open, but hours depend on each store.
• Sheetz – usually open all day.

Pharmacies and Grocery

• Walgreens – select 24‑hour locations open on Christmas Day with variable pharmacy hours.
• CVS – some stores open with adjusted hours; pharmacy services vary.
• Safeway / Albertsons – select locations may open with modified schedules.

Food & Drink

• Fast‑food chains such as McDonald’s, Dunkin’, Starbucks have many locations open on Christmas Day, but hours vary based on franchise and region.

What to Know Before You Go

• Most major grocery and retail stores are closed on Christmas Day.
• Convenience stores remain the best option for essentials and groceries.
• Pharmacies may operate with limited services, so check local hours.
• Food options like fast food are available, often with drive‑thru only.
• Travelers at airports/stations should expect limited retail access. Official transport hubs may have 7‑Eleven and similar outlets, but big grocery stores will be shut.

Advantages and Disadvantages for Travellers

Advantages

• Essential needs still available: Convenience stores and select pharmacy chains offer basic needs like snacks, bottled water, and medicine.
• Despite closures, food options exist: Many national coffee and fast‑food chains have some outlets open on Christmas Day.
• Airport and transit connections: Many 24/7 travel hubs and gas station shops remain operational.

Disadvantages

• Limited choices: Shoppers will not find full grocery offerings at large supermarkets on Christmas Day.
• Pharmacy services may be unavailable: Not all pharmacies will offer full hours; travel medicine needs can be hard to meet without planning ahead.
• Reduced hours mean planning is necessary: Without widespread open stores, travellers must adjust itineraries to shop before the holiday.

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Tags: Christmas Day 2025 USA Open Stores, Convenience Stores Holiday Hours, Essential Shopping Christmas Day, Grocery Stores Pharmacy Open Christmas, Last Minute Travel Shopping Guide

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