While most major supermarkets close on Christmas Day, some convenience-focused grocery stores remain open for essential needs. Locations such as 7-Eleven, Wawa, Sheetz, and select CVS or Walgreens stores often offer basic groceries, snacks, drinks, and household items. Checking local hours in advance ensures shoppers can still access key essentials without disrupting their holiday plans.
Grocery stores open on Christmas Day remain limited across the United States, but they continue to play a vital role for shoppers who need last-minute food, drinks, or household essentials. As of today, December 25, 2025, most traditional supermarkets are closed nationwide, while a smaller group of grocery-style retailers and convenience-based food stores remain open with adjusted hours.
This article focuses only on confirmed Christmas Day grocery availability in the U.S. and reflects current, verified operating patterns.
Why Christmas Day Grocery Options Are Limited
Christmas Day stands out as one of the few holidays when grocery store closures are nearly universal across the United States. Most large supermarket chains close their doors, both to give employees a well-deserved day off and because customer demand drops dramatically on December 25.
Unlike Thanksgiving or Christmas Eve — when shoppers rush to grab last-minute ingredients — Christmas Day itself sees very little foot traffic. By then, most households have already stocked up on everything they need for meals and celebrations. With fewer people shopping, it simply doesn’t make financial sense for full-size supermarkets to stay open.
As a result, grocery access on Christmas Day shifts to smaller-format stores that focus on convenience rather than full grocery shopping. These include corner markets, gas station stores, and select chains like 7-Eleven, Wawa, and Sheetz, which remain open to serve travelers, essential workers, and anyone who needs a few last-minute items.
In short, while traditional supermarkets take a pause, a few key convenience retailers help keep communities covered — ensuring that even on Christmas Day, basic necessities remain within reach.
Major Grocery Chains Closed Nationwide Today
Across the United States, the following grocery chains are not operating on Christmas Day 2025:
- Walmart Supercenters and Neighborhood Markets
- Kroger and all affiliated banners
- Target grocery locations
- Costco
- Sam’s Club
- Aldi
- Trader Joe’s
- Whole Foods Market
- Publix
- Meijer
- Wegmans
- Sprouts Farmers Market
- Safeway and Albertsons locations
- Food Lion
- Giant Food and Giant Eagle
These closures apply regardless of region and follow long-standing company holiday policies.
Grocery Stores Open on Christmas Day in the U.S.
While full-service supermarkets are closed, grocery stores open on Christmas Day are still available through convenience-focused retailers and travel-oriented food stores.
These locations provide essential grocery access rather than full selection.
National Grocery-Style Stores Operating Today
The following grocery retailers are confirmed to be open on December 25, though hours may vary by city and state:
- 7-Eleven
Most locations operate 24 hours and remain open on Christmas Day. - Circle K
Open in many states with standard or reduced holiday hours. - Wawa
Many locations remain open all day, particularly in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic. - Sheetz
Typically open 24/7 with food service available. - Cumberland Farms
Open in select regions with modified schedules. - Speedway
Many stores remain open, especially fuel-attached locations.
These stores act as essential grocery outlets rather than traditional supermarkets.
What Shoppers Can Buy Today
Although selection is smaller, open grocery locations usually stock:
- Milk and basic dairy products
- Bread and packaged baked goods
- Snacks, chips, and candy
- Bottled beverages and soda
- Frozen meals and desserts
- Ice bags
- Over-the-counter household essentials
Fresh produce availability is limited and varies by store size and delivery schedule.
Prepared food items are common at Wawa and Sheetz locations, making them popular choices on Christmas Day.
Local and Independent Grocery Stores
In some cities, independent grocery stores remain open on December 25. These are usually:
- Small neighborhood markets
- Urban corner stores
- International or ethnic grocery shops
- Family-owned food stores
Their hours depend entirely on local ownership decisions. Many open only for a few hours in the morning or early afternoon.
Shoppers should expect limited staffing and reduced inventory at these locations.
Pharmacy Stores With Grocery Sections
Certain pharmacy retailers remain open today and offer grocery-style items.
These stores typically carry:
- Refrigerated food and drinks
- Pantry staples
- Snacks and frozen items
- Baby and household essentials
While the store may be open, pharmacy counters are often closed. Food availability varies by location.
Holiday Hours and Service Expectations
Even among grocery stores open on Christmas Day, hours are rarely normal.
Common holiday patterns include:
- Later opening times
- Earlier closing hours
- Reduced staff
- Limited hot food availability
Fuel-attached grocery locations usually stay open the longest.
Self-checkout may be the primary option at some stores due to limited staffing.
Best Times to Shop on Christmas Day
Timing matters when grocery access is limited.
Shoppers typically see the best availability during:
- Early morning hours for stocked shelves
- Midday for prepared foods
- Evening hours mainly for snacks and beverages
Late-night shopping is most reliable at 24-hour convenience grocery locations.
Why Grocery Access Still Matters on December 25
Even with careful holiday planning, unexpected needs can easily arise on Christmas Day. Maybe a key ingredient was left off the shopping list, more guests arrived than expected, or bad weather disrupted travel plans. Sometimes, it’s as simple as running out of ice, beverages, or other everyday essentials.
That’s where the few grocery stores that remain open on December 25 make a big difference. These locations help fill last-minute gaps — providing access to food, drinks, and household basics — without requiring long-distance travel or expensive alternatives.
For many families, having a nearby store open isn’t just convenient; it’s a small but meaningful source of comfort during a busy, often unpredictable holiday. Whether it’s grabbing milk for breakfast or extra snacks for visitors, these open grocery stores help keep the day running smoothly and stress-free.
Read Also:- What’s Open Today on Christmas Day 2025 Across the United States
How Grocery Access Has Changed Over Time
Over the years, Christmas Day grocery availability has become more limited rather than expanded.
Many chains that once operated reduced hours have moved to full closure policies. At the same time, convenience-based grocery retailers have increased their role as essential providers on holidays.
This shift reflects changing consumer behavior and the growing importance of smaller-format grocery access.
What Reopens After Christmas Day
Once Christmas Day passes, most major grocery chains across the U.S. reopen their doors on December 26, typically returning to normal or near-normal operating hours. Many locations even open a bit earlier than usual to handle restocking, accommodate increased traffic, and welcome shoppers eager to restock their kitchens after the holiday.
For customers planning larger grocery trips — especially those looking for fresh produce, meat, and bakery items — waiting until December 26 is the best option. By then, shelves are replenished, full staff is back on duty, and all departments, including delis and bakeries, are operating as usual.
In short, the day after Christmas marks a return to regular shopping routines, offering the full selection and services that holiday closures temporarily pause.
Planning Tips for Future Holidays
The limited grocery availability on Christmas Day serves as an important reminder — a little preparation can go a long way. By planning ahead, you can avoid last-minute stress and ensure your holiday celebrations run smoothly.
Here are a few helpful habits to make future holidays easier:
- Shop two days before major holidays: Stores get busy quickly, and shelves empty fast. Shopping early helps you find everything you need before the rush.
- Freeze key ingredients in advance: Items like butter, bread, or meats can be stored ahead of time so you’re not scrambling at the last minute.
- Check store hours early: Many grocery stores adjust their schedules during the holidays. Knowing what’s open — and when — helps you plan accordingly.
- Keep a short emergency grocery list: Having a list of must-have items makes quick trips easier if something runs out unexpectedly.
By following these simple steps, you can reduce your reliance on limited Christmas Day options and enjoy a smoother, more relaxed holiday season.
Key Takeaway for U.S. Shoppers
On Christmas Day 2025, grocery access across the U.S. will be available — but limited. Most traditional supermarkets close nationwide to give employees a well-deserved break, leaving only a few convenience-focused grocery stores open for shoppers in need of last-minute essentials.
These open locations, such as 7-Eleven, Wawa, Sheetz, and select CVS or Walgreens stores, typically offer basics like milk, bread, snacks, beverages, and even some prepared foods. They serve as a reliable option for anyone who forgets an ingredient, hosts unexpected guests, or simply needs a quick meal.
By planning ahead and knowing which grocery stores stay open, shoppers can reduce holiday stress, avoid unnecessary travel, and ensure they have everything they need for a smooth and enjoyable Christmas Day.
Were grocery stores open in your area today, or did you have to adjust your plans? Share your experience and stay tuned for more U.S. retail updates.