The holiday season often comes down to the wire, and many shoppers find themselves making emergency runs for forgotten gifts, ingredients, or last-minute essentials. This guide details which major retailers remain open on Christmas Eve, their strengths for specific purchases, and their likely closing times—before Santa begins his deliveries.
Why This Matters
The pressure of last-minute shopping is real. Many stores close entirely on Christmas Day, making the 24th the final in-person shopping opportunity. Expect larger crowds as procrastinators and those with unexpected needs converge on retail locations.
Quick Tips for Christmas Eve Shopping
Before rushing out, keep these points in mind:
- Closing times vary: While the hours listed below are typical, they can differ, particularly in shopping malls. Always check local hours online or call ahead.
- Most retailers close on Christmas Day: This makes Christmas Eve the last chance for in-store purchases.
- Curbside pickup & delivery: These options can save time and stress, even when you’re racing against the clock.
Stores Open on Christmas Eve (and What They’re Best For)
Here’s a breakdown of key retailers and what they offer for last-minute shoppers:
Home & Hardware
- Ace Hardware: Ideal for tools, batteries, and home repair emergencies. Most locations stay open with regular business hours, but confirm locally.
- Home Depot: A reliable source for tools, holiday lights, and quick home fixes. Stores generally close around 5 p.m.
- Lowe’s: Similar to Home Depot, offering home improvement gifts and seasonal décor. Typically closes around 6 p.m.
- IKEA: For furniture, décor, and kitchen items, expect closures by 5 p.m.
Electronics & Tech
- Best Buy: Electronics, gaming accessories, headphones, and cameras. Open until 7 p.m. in most locations.
- Apple Store: Chargers, adapters, and tech support. Most stores close around 6 p.m.
- Staples: Office supplies, tech accessories, and prints. Typically closes by 6 p.m.
Clothing & Accessories
- Kohl’s: Clothing, beauty gifts, and toys. Stores typically remain open until about 7 p.m.
- JCPenney: Clothes, accessories, and home gifts. Hours vary, but expect early closures.
- Macy’s: Fashion gifts, home goods, and beauty items. Often operates with shortened hours, closing by 7 p.m. or earlier.
- Nordstrom & Nordstrom Rack: Fashion, accessories, and beauty gifts. Most stores close around 6 p.m.
- Victoria’s Secret: Intimates, gifts, and travel sets. Expect early mall/holiday closures.
- Belk: Clothing gifts, accessories, and last-minute fashion needs. Open 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
Food & Household Essentials
- Costco: Bulk snacks, drinks, wrapping paper, and last-minute gifts. Warehouses operate on reduced hours, closing around 5 p.m.
- Sam’s Club: Bulk gifts, party trays, and last-minute food needs. Open with shortened hours (likely 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.).
- Target: A one-stop shop for décor, gifts, and essentials. Often open 7 a.m. to 8 p.m.
- Walmart: Similar to Target, offering a wide range of products.
- CVS: Toiletries, snacks, medicine, and last-minute must-haves. Hours vary; call ahead to confirm.
- Walgreens: Last-minute medications, snacks, and cards. Many stores remain open, including 24-hour locations.
Specialty & Other
- Barnes & Noble: Books, gifts, and stocking stuffers. Typically closes around 6 p.m.
- Bass Pro Shops & Cabela’s: Outdoor gifts, winter gear, and stocking stuffers. Open 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- HomeGoods: Décor, housewares, and cozy gifts. Most locations are open 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Marshall’s & TJ Maxx: Clothing, accessories, and home finds. Usually open 7 a.m. to 6 p.m.
- Petco & PetSmart: Pet gifts, treats, and last-minute supplies. Most locations close by 7 p.m. or 6 p.m.
- REI: Outdoor gifts and gear. Expect early closures in the mid-to-late afternoon.
- Sephora: Beauty gifts and stocking stuffers. Shortened hours, often until 6 p.m.
Conclusion
Christmas Eve offers a final window for last-minute shoppers, but it’s crucial to verify store hours before heading out. With the right planning and awareness of closing times, you can avoid unnecessary stress and ensure a smooth holiday finish.
