With Christmas Day approaching, businesses across Brazil are finalizing their operating schedules for December 25, 2024. Traditionally observed as a national holiday, much of the retail and service sector will be adjusting their hours, affecting how consumers can shop and carry out errands.
Most retail stores will remain closed on Christmas Day, reopening on December 26. According to the CDL, "Os estabelecimentos reabrem na quinta-feira (26)." Meanwhile, supermarkets across major cities, including São Paulo and Campo Grande, have also announced they will not open their doors on the holiday. This year, shoppers will need to plan accordingly as these establishments will resume normal business hours only after Christmas.
Shopping centers are implementing varied policies concerning their businesses during this festive season. For example, at Shopping Campo Grande, only the food court will operate, running from 10 am to 10 pm, as many shops will not open at all. Other prominent shopping areas are taking similar measures. The SBT News reports on major shopping options: "A abertura das lojas e da praça de alimentação é facultativa, das 14h às 20h." This suggests some flexibility, allowing individual shops to decide their hours.
While the majority of retail is shutting down for the holiday, some dining options operate at their discretion. Owners of bars and restaurants can choose whether to remain open, though operational hours will vary widely. One source noted, "Os proprietários de bares e restaurante podem escolher se abrem ou fecham as portas neste natal"—which indicates the diverse range of choices available to these business owners.
Emergency services, such as pharmacies and hospitals, will continue to function on Christmas Day. Essential healthcare facilities like UPH units will provide emergency care without interruption. This will allow those who require urgent medical attention to have access regardless of the holiday.
Public transport will operate on Christmas, but with limited schedules, mirroring Saturday service. It is practical for anyone planning to travel on the holiday to double-check their routes with the local transit authority for the latest updates surrounding the bus schedules and services operating on December 25.
Banks, including ATMs, will be inaccessible during Christmas but will resume operations on December 26. Standard transactions like Pix and payments via automatic methods will remain available, ensuring people can manage their finances without added delays. Any payments due on this day can be made without incurring additional charges, thanks to the regulations governing such transactions.
Consumers heading out for festive meals should plan based on the option of limited service at many eating establishments as well—a strategy recommended by SBT News for anticipating operational delays or closures. With many chains opting for different holiday practices, it’s prudent to verify if your preferred dining venue will be serving customers.
Despite the closure of many retailers and services, families across Brazil continue to celebrate the holiday spirit, finding time to gather with loved ones. Although shopping options will be limited, Christmas Day provides a space for joy and celebration, reinforcing the cultural importance of the holiday.
With only selected business operations during Christmas, this year prompts both consumers and businesses to adapt to changing circumstances. Whether it's grabbing last-minute gifts or festive dining, clarifying these details will be imperative for holiday preparation.
From everyone at Contábeis, best wishes for a Merry Christmas, emphasizing union, love, and prosperity during this holiday season regardless of where you spend it. Essential services like pharmacies remain open for emergencies, ensuring safety and care for all who might need it.
