Last-Minute Holiday Shopping? Here’s What Grocery Stores Are Open This Christmas

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As Christmas approaches and festive chaos hits full swing, one big question is on everyone’s mind: Can you still run out for groceries or last-minute essentials? Whether you forgot the cranberry sauce or need batteries for a new gift, here’s your ultimate guide to what’s open — and what’s closed — during the Christmas holiday this year.

Christmas Day Closures: Most Grocery Stores Are Shut

The big takeaway for Christmas Day (December 25, 2025) is simple: most major grocery chains across the U.S. will be closed so employees can spend the holiday with their families. That includes popular names like Costco, Aldi, Publix, Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, Target, Kroger, and Walmart — all of which plan to stay closed on December 25. 
Some convenience-style shops or pharmacy chains, however — such as CVS or Walgreens — may have select locations open with limited hours, and 24-hour convenience stores like 7-Eleven typically remain open for last-minute essentials. 

Christmas Eve (Dec 24): Your Last Grocery Run

Christmas Eve is the last shopping lifeline before many doors close. Most stores are open but will end hours early so employees can celebrate with loved ones.
Here’s how some major outlets stack up: 
Stores with Modified Hours on Christmas Eve

• H-E-B: Open until ~8 p.m. (pharmacy closes earlier).
• Walmart: Open until ~6 p.m.
• Target: 7 a.m. – 8 p.m.
• Trader Joe’s: Typically closes ~5 p.m.
• Whole Foods: Modified hours, often until ~7 p.m.
• Aldi: Often closes ~4 p.m.
• Stop & Shop / Food Lion: Usually remain open but close early.

This means if you’re planning a last-minute dash, you’ll want to head out early afternoon or before dinner time — especially for busy items like meat, dessert ingredients, or party supplies.

Why So Many Early Closures?

Stores reduce hours on Christmas Eve and close entirely on Christmas Day for two main reasons:

• Holiday traditions: Christmas is one of the few days when even big retailers give employees a full day off.
• Customer safety & rhythm: With holiday travel and festivities peaking, fewer shoppers hit the aisles, and businesses adjust accordingly. 

Even some local or regional markets that might stay open on normal holidays will shut their doors entirely on Christmas Day — so don’t count on it if you’re planning a last-minute run.

Pro Tips Before You Go

• Check individual store hours online or by phone before leaving — holiday schedules vary.
• Beat the crowd by shopping early in the day on Christmas Eve.
• If you absolutely must get something on Christmas Day, look for 24/7 convenience stores like 7-Eleven or select pharmacies with holiday hours.
• Consider delivery apps early — many services also scale back on Christmas Day.