Liquor stores across various states are gearing up for one of the busiest shopping days of the year, Christmas Eve 2024. With the holiday spirit alive and well, these outlets are preparing to welcome last-minute shoppers eager to stock up on festive drinks for their family gatherings.
According to Bryan McDonald, owner of Fleming Place Wine & Spirits in Topeka, Kansas, Christmas Eve is particularly hectic. "It’s been just as busy, if not more busy than last year," he remarked, reflecting on the steady streams of customers leading up to the holiday. His store plans to remain open until 8 p.m. on Christmas Eve, allowing patrons ample time to grab last-minute essentials before the closure mandated by Kansas law on Christmas Day.
Shoppers across the nation will find liquor stores open on December 24, but operating hours will vary by location. Many stores, like Total Wine & More and BevMo, will adjust their schedules accordingly. Total Wine & More will open at its usual time of 9 a.m. but will close two hours early at 8 p.m. Meanwhile, BevMo has planned to operate from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m., ensuring liquor lovers have enough time to pick up their favorite bottles.
While most liquor stores are closed on Christmas Day, select locations may open for limited hours. For example, BevMo stores will welcome customers from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Christmas Day, providing last-minute options for those who may need to pick up something special for their holiday festivities. Convenience stores like Walgreens and CVS are also stepping up to assist holiday hosts with select beverages. Walgreens will be open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Christmas Day, offering some popular liquor options.
Not every place is accessible, though. The Beer Store and LCBO locations are confirming their closures as part of their scheduled holiday operations. Most LCBO outlets will close at 6 p.m. on Christmas Eve and won’t open their doors again until December 26, emphasizing the importance of holiday planning for their customers. Likewise, the Beer Store indicated all its locations would close at 5 p.m. on Christmas Eve.
Shopping centers, grocery stores, and various retail locations will also have distinctive hours this Christmas Eve. Many larger retailers, such as Walmart and Target, will keep their doors open for those final shopping runs, with most closing later at night to accommodate patrons. The rush is expected to mirror previous years, as families scramble to get their supplies before the holiday's traditional closures.
Error or miscalculation can mean disappointment for those hoping to secure their jolly beverages. Therefore, knowing which stores will be open and when is key. The liquor store situation for shoppers can seem complex, with numerous regulations influencing hours and availability across different regions. This anticipated rush manifests particularly during the festive season when traditional gatherings take place.
Although each state has its own rules about liquor sales during the holidays, many establishments aim to make it as simple as possible for their customers. For example, Massachusetts liquor stores have similar arrangements, and various local shops plan to follow suit with flexible hours during the holiday period.
Shoppers are readying for last-minute errands, whether it's picking up wine for celebratory dinners, spirits for toasting, or beer for casual gatherings. Having access to these alcohol retailers during the lead-up to Christmas can significantly ease the pressure on hosts preparing for family and friends.
Overall, consumers and liquor store owners alike are embracing the holiday spirit. With extended hours on Christmas Eve and clear guidelines for closures, the festive shopping experience should prove enjoyable for all. Businesses expect to see consistent traffic throughout the week, making it clear there is still demand for holiday cheer, even during structured retail hours.
So whether it's stocking up on bourbons or choosing the right mixers for holiday cocktails, liquor stores are set to play a central role during this festive season. Customers should take heed of seasonal hours and plan their shopping adventures accordingly to maximize their holiday fun.
