Christmas Day is not just about festive celebrations; for many, it’s also about finding open venues for dining, entertainment, and shopping. While many may enjoy the holiday at home, there are those who need options for food, fun, or last-minute supplies. Whether you're avoiding the holiday spirit or simply don't want to cook, several places will remain open this Christmas Day.
For those located in Yakima Valley, the Legends Casino Hotel will welcome guests from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. to partake in their all-you-can-eat Christmas Buffet. With items like Beef Wellington, Lobster Tail, seared Dungeness Crab, and even Mexican food-inspired dishes, this festive feast promises to be both extravagant and delicious. Nestled at 580 Fort Rd. in Toppenish, this venue is ideal for adults wanting to indulge. Other establishments open for dining include Denny's, Mr. Pizza, Jean's Cottage Inn, Starbucks, Tasty Wok, McDonald's, Glam Co. Coffee, and Red Lobster, though patrons should check for specific holiday hours.
If dining out isn't your first choice, the Yakima Valley offers various entertainment options. The local cinemas will be screening new family-friendly flicks such as Moana 2, Sonic the Hedgehog 3, and Gladiator II. For those interested in hitting the slopes, White Pass Ski Resort will be open, presenting opportunities for skiing and snowboarding on Christmas day.
Moving eastwards to Canberra, Christmas Day presents its own unique challenges, especially for local residents attempting to juggle garbage collection schedules. Notably, suburbs like Amaroo, Bonner, and Casey must adjust their trash collection to occur later, on December 28. Meanwhile, all other collection days, including Boxing Day, will follow regular schedules.
Most major grocery stores, including Coles and Woolworths, will shutter their doors for Christmas Day, compelling shoppers to find alternatives. Fortunately, certain IGA and SPAR shops remain operational, though hours may be limited. For fans of fast food, McDonald’s and Hungry Jack’s will offer services on Christmas Day, alongside select Domino’s Pizza outlets which will be open from 4 p.m. until 10 p.m. While KFC has opted to close, Red Rooster will welcome hungry customers.
Public transport will maintain its usual holiday service pattern, offering free travel on Christmas Day. Local buses will be operational from 7:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. with services running every hour, making it easier for patrons to access open establishments.
If you find yourself having had to deal with injury or illness on the holiday, walk-in health centers across the ACT will remain open from 7:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. allowing residents to seek treatment without appointments. Emergency departments at local hospitals will also continue to operate but expect significantly high patient volumes.
On the other side of the Pacific, San Antonio brings its own fun for Christmas celebrators eager to socialize after the holiday meal. Several bars and restaurants will open their doors on Christmas Day from 6 p.m. onwards. Locations such as Barbaro and Hot Joy will feature drink specials and are ready to serve patrons until midnight. Other spots, including Idle Beer Hall & Brewery and The Rusty Nail, will cater customers until the early morning hours, creating ideal venues for those ready to kick back and unwind.
With options like Wav Room hosting music sessions and karaoke at El Luchador, there’s entertainment for all tastes and preferences. The vibrant bar scene invites residents to choose from casual settings or lively atmospheres filled with music — perfect for gathering with family or meeting new friends.
It's clear: whether you're seeking fast food, sit-down dining, or late-night fun, Christmas Day offers numerous options across various cities. Knowing where to go can make the day more manageable and enjoyable, even when holiday festivities aren't your scene. If local dining or entertainment doesn’t suit your needs, many businesses will be ready to welcome patrons — proving there’s no need to miss out during this festive season.
