Christmas Day often prompts the spirit of giving and family gatherings, but it also brings questions about which businesses and services remain open. Across various regions, consumers are left wondering where they can shop or enjoy leisure activities on December 25. Here’s what to expect this holiday season.
Many local shops and supermarkets will close their doors on Christmas Day, allowing their employees to celebrate with family and friends. For example, it is expected the majority of major grocery chains, including Lidl and Leclerc, will be shuttered. Yet, some outlets, like the Carrefour on Jeanne d’Arc, plan to remain open from 9 AM to 1 PM, providing limited options for those who forgot to stock up for festive feasts.
The historic Monoprix located on Rue du Gros-Horloge traditionally stays open during the holiday, though decisions about its Christmas Day hours have not been finalized as of now.
Moving west, residents of Manitoba should also prepare for varied service hours over the holiday season. Retail options will significantly dwindle on Christmas Day, with most grocery stores opting to close. On December 24, Liquor Marts will close at 6 PM and will not open on Christmas Day. Nevertheless, they will resume limited hours from 11 AM to 6 PM on December 26, providing some respite for those seeking celebratory beverages post-Christmas.
Malls will similarly observe shortened hours, closing entirely on Christmas Day. For example, Polo Park and Centre Saint-Vital will open on December 24 for limited shopping and will welcome back visitors on December 26. Specifically, Polo Park will operate from 10 AM to 4:30 PM on the 24th and from 8 AM to 9 PM on the 26th.
Public services will experience interruptions as well. Many city services, including municipal offices, will close at noon on December 24 and will remain closed on Christmas Day and the following day. Public transport will run on regular schedules on the 24th, but shifts to Sunday schedules on the 25th and 26th, making travel plans on these days rather limited.
For leisure seekers, options available on Christmas Day are limited. Parks and some outdoor attractions might remain accessible; for example, the beautiful paths of the Jardin Botanique de Montréal will be open for visitors. Meanwhile, several skating rinks, including those on the Mount Royal, will welcome skaters, albeit visitors should check specific opening hours beforehand to avoid disappointment.
Cinemas are one of the few venues drawing crowds on Christmas Day. Movie buffs can catch exciting releases, including 'Babygirl' featuring Nicole Kidman and 'A Complete Unknown' where Timothée Chalamet portrays Bob Dylan. This year promises engaging cinematic experiences for those choosing to enjoy the day away from traditional dining experiences.
Restaurants and bars also show flexibility during the holidays, with many establishments preparing special Christmas menus. While numerous museums will close their doors on December 25, some festive attractions will illuminate the city centers, such as the Lumino event transforming downtown Montreal with artistic light installations.
Shopping on the day after Christmas, known as Boxing Day, offers another opportunity for retail therapy with most stores, including local shops and larger retailers reopening at 1 PM. Many eager bargain hunters look forward to this annual shopping tradition, seeking discounts after the holiday rush.
To summarize, businesses and services during Christmas Day vary widely across regions. While many establishments close their doors, festive activities persist with cinemas, select restaurants, and outdoor sports venues welcoming visitors. Preparation and awareness of Christmas hours can help shoppers make the most of their holiday season without encountering unwanted surprises.
