As Americans prepare for their Christmas celebrations with their loved ones, stores in the United States are adapting their operating schedules for Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. While many of these stores, including big retail chains and offices, would be closed on Christmas Day, there would be essential stores open.

Adding to this year’s holiday break, US President Donald Trump has signed an executive order granting December 24 (Christmas Eve) and December 26 as additional federal holidays for 2025. Federal employees will now receive three consecutive days off for Christmas, although essential services related to national security and public safety may continue operations.

Retailers Open On Christmas Day

A few retail businesses have confirmed that they will stay open on the day of Christmas, which will be mainly for the fulfillment of some urgent requirements. The convenience store chain, 7-Eleven, will remain operational around the clock.

Starbucks outlets shall open selectively, and their operational timings shall depend upon the city and location. Customers are advised to check the listings before visiting. Pharmacy chains CVS and Walgreens shall also open partially. Most stores under CVS shall remain open with reduced timings, which shall range between 8 am and 9 pm, whereas Walgreens outlets are expected to remain operational either as usual or between 8 am and 6 pm.

Wawa, Albertsons, Safeway, and Gigante supermarkets have announced a limited schedule on Christmas Day. The hours of some of these shops will be minimal, with the remaining ones operating between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. on most of these company-owned shops, and those operated by Albertsons will be on a similar limited schedule.

Major Stores Closed On December 25

In observance of the federal holiday, some large retailers will be closed on Christmas Day. Walmart, for instance, confirmed it will close all of its stores above 4,600 across the US on December 25. However, on December 24, it will operate from 6:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., and normal business hours will resume on December 26.

ALSO READ: Where Is The World's Tallest Living Christmas Tree? Location, Height And Fun Facts 

Target will also close on Christmas Day and resume operations at 7 am on December 26. Warehouse club Sam’s Club is scheduled to operate on December 24 from 9 am to 6 pm, but will close on Christmas Day. Other major stores that are closed on December 25 are Costco, Macy's, Publix, Aldi, IKEA, Home Depot, Lowe's, and Trader Joe's.

ALSO READ: Ireland Grants Airspace Access For Santa Claus, Approves Christmas Eve Mission

As store operating hours tend to be very divergent by region, customers are strongly encouraged to check operating hours of their local store before going out. Online store locators and customer service hotlines would remain the most reliable source of up-to-date information. Now that Christmas is around the corner, planning ahead can go a long way in preventing last-minute hassles for this highly observed holiday in America.