Christmas Eve is a time of anticipation, where families come together, and people prepare for the holiday festivities. However, for those running last-minute errands, whether it’s buying a gift, stocking up on groceries, or grabbing a quick meal, the situation may be different this year. While many businesses remain open on Christmas Eve, it’s important to note that most will operate under reduced hours.
As the holiday approaches, some stores and restaurants are likely to close early to allow their employees to spend time with their families. Anticipating fewer customers than usual, these businesses adapt their hours accordingly. Here’s a comprehensive list of what’s open and closed on Christmas Eve 2024.
Are Grocery Stores Open on Christmas Eve?
For those who need to pick up last-minute ingredients or are working on a holiday meal, grocery stores will remain open, but many will close earlier than normal.
- Albertsons-owned Stores: This includes Safeway, Jewel-Osco, ACME, Randalls, Shaw’s, Vons, Tom Thumb, and others. These locations will be open, but they’ll close early and likely operate under a holiday schedule.
- Aldi: Aldi’s holiday hours on Christmas Eve are limited. Make sure to check the store locator for your local store’s specific hours.
- Food Lion: Food Lion will be closing at 6 p.m. EST on Christmas Eve.
- Giant Food: These stores will close at 7 p.m. on Christmas Eve. Pharmacy hours will follow their Sunday schedule, and gas stations will shut down at 6:30 p.m.
- Kroger: On Christmas Eve, Kroger stores and fuel centers will close at 6 p.m. Pharmacies will close early, usually by 4 p.m.
- Stop & Shop: Most Stop & Shop stores will close by 6 p.m. Pharmacy hours will also be reduced, closing by 1 p.m., and fuel stations close at 5:30 p.m.
- Trader Joe’s: These stores will close early at 5 p.m. on Christmas Eve.
- Whole Foods: Whole Foods locations will close at 7 p.m. on Christmas Eve.
So, while grocery stores remain open for your convenience, don’t delay – many will be closing earlier than usual.
Which Restaurants Are Open on Christmas Eve?
If you’re looking to dine out on Christmas Eve, there are several options. However, keep in mind that restaurants may operate under different hours, depending on the location and the day.
- Applebee’s: Applebee’s will have varying hours based on location, but most restaurants will close earlier than usual. Some may even shut down completely for the evening to allow employees to enjoy the holiday with their families.
- Cracker Barrel: Cracker Barrel will close at 2 p.m. on Christmas Eve, a significant reduction from their usual late-night hours (often until 9 p.m. or 10 p.m.).
- IHOP: IHOP will remain open on Christmas Eve, but the hours will vary depending on your local restaurant, so it’s best to check with the store ahead of time.
- Wendy’s: For those craving a quick fast-food option, Wendy’s will operate at normal hours on Christmas Eve, making it an easy stop for anyone in need of a meal.
For those wanting a quick bite or a festive meal, these restaurants offer a variety of options, but remember that many will close earlier than normal.
Where to Shop for Gifts on Christmas Eve?
It’s not too late to grab that perfect gift for your loved ones. Most large retail stores will remain open on Christmas Eve, but they will close earlier than usual.
- Best Buy: Most Best Buy locations will be open from 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Christmas Eve, offering a great opportunity for any last-minute tech purchases.
- Costco: Costco will operate its regular hours on Christmas Eve, giving you plenty of time to pick up gifts, food, or last-minute items.
- Macy’s: Macy’s stores will be open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Christmas Eve, allowing you to find clothing, home goods, and accessories for those on your list.
- Target: Target stores will close at 8 p.m. on Christmas Eve, so you’ll need to get your shopping done early. They will reopen on Dec. 26 at 7 a.m.
- Walmart: Walmart stores will close at 6 p.m. on Christmas Eve, but don’t worry, you still have time to pick up those last-minute essentials before then.
Whether you’re in search of electronics, home goods, or toys for the kids, these stores have got you covered, even on Christmas Eve.
Conclusion
Christmas Eve 2024 is a mix of excitement and last-minute preparations, and knowing which stores and restaurants will be open can make your day a lot easier. While many businesses remain open, you’ll find reduced hours, so it’s important to plan ahead and avoid waiting until the last minute.
Grocery stores, restaurants, and retailers will offer services, but closing times will be earlier than usual, so be sure to check with individual locations for exact hours. Whether you need to pick up a gift, grab some groceries, or enjoy a holiday meal, there’s still time to get everything done before the big day.
Remember, many of these businesses are making adjustments to allow their staff to enjoy the holidays with their loved ones, so be sure to check your local hours in advance. Happy Holidays!