The holiday season is merry, bright, and hectic. It’s hard to cram every moment of cheer into just four weeks and keep your sanity.
If you find yourself behind and needing to grab last-minute presents, run errands, or pick up a stick of butter on Christmas Eve, know that you are only human.
After taking a couple of deep breaths, read on to see which stores are open and closed on the night before the big night.
Are banks open on Christmas Eve?
Christmas Eve is not a federal holiday, so most banks are open. Some may choose to have reduced hours, so it is a good practice to check with your local branch ahead of time to save you the potential headache.
If you missed your window, don’t forget that online banking and ATMs can come to the rescue.
Is mail delivered on Christmas Eve?
Yes, mail is delivered on Christmas Eve. The U.S. Postal Service is operating, although some branches may close early.
Is the stock market open?
Yes, you can buy and sell on Christmas Eve. (Perhaps to stuff the stockings with stock?) Both the New York Stock Exchange and the Nasdaq are open for business, but only until 1 p.m. ET.
Which stores are open?
Here’s a cheat sheet for grocery store hours this year:
- Trader Joe’s: Reduced hours; open until 5 p.m.
- Aldi: Reduced hours; check your local store for details.
- Whole Foods: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Publix: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- Kroger: Store closes at 8 p.m.; pharmacy closes at 5 p.m.
- Safeway: 6 a.m. to 8 p.m.
And here’s one for popular retailers:
- Walmart: 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Target: 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Costco: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Kohl’s: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
- TJ Maxx: 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Macy’s: Closing at 7 p.m.
Starbucks is open but with reduced hours. Check your local store for details.
Are pharmacies open on Christmas Eve?
If you’re feeling under the weather on Christmas Eve, you can turn to CVS or Walgreens. Both major pharmacy chains are open, though they are expected to close early. Check in with your local store before heading on a run for cough syrup.
The bottom line
Never fear. Most stores are open on Christmas Eve with reduced hours. Double-check the hours at your local shop so you don’t waste a trip. And try not to worry. Everything will get done and be holly jolly.