Top Grocery Stores Open on Christmas Day 2025

Finding a grocery store open on Christmas Day can be a challenge. Many people rely on last-minute shopping for holiday meals, forgotten ingredients, or emergency supplies. Knowing which stores will welcome customers on December 25, 2025, can save time and stress. This guide highlights the top grocery stores open on Christmas Day 2025, what to expect from their hours, and tips for smooth shopping during the holiday.

Grocery store entrance decorated for Christmas, eye-level view of festive holiday decorations at store entrance, Christmas shopping scene

Why Some Grocery Stores Stay Open on Christmas

Most grocery stores close on Christmas to allow employees to spend time with family. However, some chains keep select locations open to serve customers who need essentials or last-minute items. These stores often operate with reduced hours and limited staff. Convenience stores and large supermarket chains with 24-hour locations are more likely to open on Christmas Day.

Stores open on Christmas usually focus on providing basic groceries, holiday staples, and ready-to-eat meals. Shoppers can expect fewer product options and limited services like deli counters or bakeries.

Major Grocery Chains Open on Christmas Day 2025

Here are some of the most reliable grocery stores that typically open on Christmas Day. While hours may vary by location, these chains often keep at least some stores accessible.

Walmart

Walmart is known for its extended holiday hours. Many Walmart Supercenters remain open on Christmas Day, usually with reduced hours such as 7 AM to 2 PM. Walmart offers a wide range of groceries, including fresh produce, dairy, frozen foods, and ready-made meals. Their pharmacy and bakery departments may be closed or have limited service.

Tips for Walmart on Christmas:

• Check your local store’s hours online before heading out.

• Expect crowds early in the day.

• Use Walmart’s app for quick price checks and product availability.

  
  

Kroger

Kroger stores in some regions open on Christmas Day, often from 7 AM to 3 PM. Kroger provides fresh holiday essentials like turkeys, hams, and baking supplies. Some locations offer hot food bars and deli items, but these services may close early.

Tips for Kroger on Christmas:

• Call ahead to confirm hours and available services.

• Look for Kroger’s holiday meal kits for easy preparation.

• Use Kroger’s ClickList for curbside pickup if available.

  
  

Safeway

Safeway stores in select areas open on Christmas Day, usually with limited hours such as 8 AM to 2 PM. Safeway offers a good selection of fresh produce, dairy, and bakery items. Some stores may have a limited deli or hot food section open.

Tips for Safeway on Christmas:

• Use the Safeway app to check store hours and stock.

• Plan to shop early to avoid sold-out items.

• Consider Safeway’s pre-made holiday meals for convenience.

  
  

Grocery store aisle with holiday food items, close-up view of shelves stocked with Christmas-themed groceries

7-Eleven and Other Convenience Stores

Convenience stores like 7-Eleven, Circle K, and local corner stores almost always remain open on Christmas Day. These stores provide basic groceries, snacks, beverages, and some frozen foods. While their selection is limited compared to supermarkets, they are a reliable option for last-minute needs.

Tips for Convenience Stores on Christmas:

• Expect higher prices due to convenience.

• Use these stores for essentials like milk, bread, and snacks.

• Check if your local convenience store offers holiday-specific items.

  
  

Trader Joe’s and Whole Foods Market

Trader Joe’s and Whole Foods Market generally close on Christmas Day. However, some Whole Foods locations inside larger stores like Amazon Fresh may have limited hours. It’s best to check specific store policies closer to the date.

How to Prepare for Shopping on Christmas Day

Shopping on Christmas Day requires some planning. Here are practical tips to make the experience smoother:

• Confirm store hours early. Hours can change year to year and vary by location.

• Make a list of essentials. Focus on must-have items to save time.

• Shop early in the day. Stores tend to be less crowded in the morning.

• Use store apps. Many chains provide real-time updates on hours and stock.

• Consider alternatives. If grocery stores are closed, convenience stores or online delivery services may help.

  
  

Online Grocery Options on Christmas Day

Some online grocery services operate on Christmas Day, though availability depends on your area. Services like Instacart, Amazon Fresh, and Walmart Grocery may offer delivery or pickup options. These can be lifesavers for last-minute shopping but expect limited delivery windows and higher fees.

What to Expect When Shopping on Christmas Day

• Reduced hours. Most stores open late and close early.

• Limited staff. Fewer employees may mean slower checkout.

• Smaller selection. Some departments like bakery or deli may be closed.

• Higher prices. Convenience and holiday demand can increase costs.

• Crowds. Early shoppers often fill stores quickly.

  
  

Grocery store checkout lane with holiday shoppers, high angle view of customers waiting in line with holiday groceries