Most major retailers and grocery stores are closed on Christmas Day, but some convenience stores, pharmacies, gas stations, and chain restaurants do stay open with limited hours. Exact hours vary a lot by location, so it’s important to check your local store or restaurant online before you go.

Big picture: what’s usually open

On Christmas Day in the U.S., only a narrow set of places tend to open, often with shorter hours.

  • Convenience stores : Many 7‑Eleven, Circle K, Wawa and Sheetz locations operate 24/7, including Christmas Day, though some individual stores may adjust hours.
  • Drugstores/pharmacies : Chains like CVS and Walgreens generally open on Christmas but often with reduced hours, and pharmacy counters may have different schedules.
  • Gas stations : Branded stations connected to convenience stores (like 7‑Eleven, Circle K, Wawa, Sheetz) usually remain open for fuel and quick snacks.

Grocery & retail stores

Most full‑service grocery and big‑box chains close completely for the holiday.

  • Typically closed : Walmart, Target, Costco, Aldi, Trader Joe’s, Kroger, Publix, Whole Foods, Sam’s Club, and many regional grocers shut down on December 25.
  • Possible exceptions : Some Albertsons and Safeway locations may open with limited hours, depending on the region.

Restaurants and food spots

If you do not want to cook, a mix of sit‑down and fast‑casual chains may be available in many cities.

  • Often open (check local hours) :
    • Coffee and fast food: Some Starbucks, Dunkin’, McDonald’s and Domino’s locations open, but participation and hours vary by franchise.
* Sit‑down chains: IHOP, Waffle House, Red Lobster, Fogo de Chão, Benihana and some Italian‑style chains (like Bravo Italian Kitchen or BRIO Italian Grille) commonly advertise Christmas Day service with modified hours.
  • Commonly closed : Chains such as Chick‑fil‑A, Taco Bell, Chipotle and several others typically close for the day.

Practical tips before you head out

Because policies differ by chain, city, and even individual franchise, it is easy to get caught by surprise.

  • Search your specific store or restaurant online and use its locator or app to confirm Christmas Day hours.
  • Call ahead if you are unsure, especially for pharmacy counters or sit‑down restaurants that may require reservations.
  • Expect holiday hours to be shorter than usual, even at places that are normally open 24/7.

Meta description:
Wondering what’s open on Christmas Day? From convenience stores and pharmacies to select restaurants and gas stations, here’s a quick guide to what typically stays open and what usually closes.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.