During the festive season, businesses across the United States adjust their hours to accommodate the Christmas celebrations. For Christmas Eve and Day 2024, this year will follow similar patterns seen in past years, with many retailers and services adjusting their operations.
Christmas Eve (December 24)
Christmas Eve, or Nochebuena, is celebrated variably throughout the United States, with many institutions offering altered hours to facilitate last-minute shopping and preparations. While not recognized as a federal holiday, states like Texas observe it as a state holiday. The following are key operating hours for major outlets on December 24, 2024:
- Walmart: Open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM. While these hours might change based on location, customers should aim to shop early. Some stores may close earlier, so checking local hours is prudent.
- Target: Regular hours from 7:00 AM to 8:00 PM, subject to local variations.
- Costco: Many locations will offer shortened hours, opening from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Kroger: Will operate from 5:00 AM to 7:00 PM.
- Aldi: Open from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, providing shoppers with limited access to groceries.
- Whole Foods: Available from 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM, albeit also subject to location-specific adjustments.
Services including CVS and Walgreens will remain open; some of these pharmacies may offer modified schedules, making them convenient for customers needing last-minute health essentials.
Banking services will typically close early on Christmas Eve, with institutions such as Chase and Wells Fargo shutting their doors by noon or earlier. Customers should verify with their respective banks for specific closing times.
Postal services will be partially available, with the United States Postal Service (USPS) providing limited hours and collections continuing as planned. FedEx and UPS will operate on reduced schedules, ensuring customers can still send urgent packages.
The DMV offices will be closed entirely on this day, emphasizing the need for residents to check any outstanding requirements beforehand.
Christmas Day (December 25)
Christmas Day sees many businesses closed entirely, marking it as one of the few universally recognized federal holidays. For 2024, many of the same chains will not offer services:
- Walmart: Closed for the day, with the exception of select stores which may have special hours. This contrasts with their usual operations, where they are open early for last-minute needs for users post-Christmas Eve dinners.
- Target, Costco, Publix, and Aldi: All will remain closed for the federal holiday, making them inaccessible for shoppers seeking groceries or last-minute items.
This closure of major retail chains means customers wanting to shop must plan their visits to smaller, local stores— some might remain open, albeit often with reduced hours.
Spotting available facilities, some pharmacies and convenience stores will function to assist those who need medications or quick snacks. CVS and Walgreens, where operational, along with 7-Eleven and Circle K, will adjust their hours to provide limited service.
Recreational areas, including public libraries and governmental services, will also be shut down for the occasion, reflecting the holiday's nature as one centered around family gatherings and celebrations.
Restaurant chains will have their unique schedules. Places like Starbucks and Dunkin’ Donuts will be available on Christmas Eve, though timings might vary. Many high-end dining options, such as Al Biernat’s and Dee Lincoln Prime, typically remain operational along with limited offerings for residents at local restaurants.
Also to note, many school districts across Texas will be on winter recess during these holiday days, benefiting families with time off to enjoy holidays together.
For families preparing for the festivities, planning around these adjusted schedules will be key to ensuring they gather necessary supplies and enjoy the celebrations without stress. With the knowledge of what is open and closed, customers can strategize their holiday preparations and join family gatherings worry-free. Whether it’s running errands or preparing for gatherings, knowing the schedule of operations keeps the holiday spirit intact and enjoyable!
