23 Stores That’ll Stay Open Late On Christmas Eve

Listen, Santa works super hard this time of year. But even with the help of his elves, sometimes he falls short and needs a little backup from, oh, say you! Now, you might not realize this until three eggnogs into Christmas Eve festivities. Then, all of a sudden, you need a store that stays open late on Christmas Eve and fast. Luckily, there are quite a few.

These places include department stores, pharmacies, grocery stores, and specialty chains where you can snag a last-minute gift, grab some oh so necessary toilet paper, or pick up a cheap bottle of wine as you prepare for everything to be shut down on Christmas day. And aren’t we lucky they do! To save you from driving around your town late night looking for an open sign, print this list of stores open late on Christmas Eve out as a little reminder, or pin it to the fridge for that person in your life who will be making the same familiar trek to scour the aisles of Walgreens and Target in search for the perfect stocking stuffer, and remember to say thanks to the staffers on hand. This year more than ever they could use an extra vote of appreciation for working Christmas Eve.

Where to Grab Last Minute Clothing, Toys, & Gifts

• Target will be open on Christmas Eve until 8 p.m. for all in store shopping, according to the company’s website. But perhaps even better for those following strict social distancing measures, Target will offer its Order Pickup or Drive Up services up until 5 p.m. on Christmas Eve so you can swing on by to snag a toy last minute.
• Need to snag Christmas dinner and a new basketball hoop for your 10-year-old on Christmas Eve? Head to Walmart. The mega store's doors will be open from 12 a.m. to 6 p.m.
• According to HolidayShoppingHours.com, KMart is operating on Christmas Eve from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. so you can snag a few final items for others or yourself.
• Kohl’s will be open until 6 p.m. on Christmas Eve.
• Macy's tells Romper “the eve hours depend on the store itself right now.” Best plan? Give your local store a ring to confirm how late they’ll be open.
• Big Lots is open on Christmas Eve until 10 p.m. per Holiday Shopping Hours.
• Generally open on with limited store hours on Christmas eve, consult the Costco's location page to find out exactly when your local warehouse will be closing that night.
• The beauty of finding a CVS on Christmas Eve is that many are open 24 hours a day. But not always. Again, check out the store locator page to determine what the exact hours of your area CVS are.
• Walgreens pharmacy is open on December 24 with regular hours (10 p.m.) but that might change based on location so be safe by checking your branch here.
• Most Rite Aids are open until 9 p.m. But if you want to be safe than sorry, give your store a ring or check via their store locator page.
• Home Depot is a great place to grab a last-minute gift. Think toolbelt for Dad. And they are open Christmas Eve, but store hours are left up to the individual store, so check in advance.
• Sam’s Club operates on normal hours (10 a.m. - 8:00 p.m.) on Christmas Eve.
• Need a last-minute book for your Mom or Dad? Head to Barnes & Noble on Christmas Eve. The retailer will be open until 9 p.m.

Where to Fill the Pantry In a Pinch

• Publix grocery store will be open until 7 p.m. on Christmas Eve, Parade reports.
• Kroger’s store hours will be operating on a case by case basis, so it’s best you call ahead.
• Craving a Trader Joe’s signature item? Act before 6 p.m. because that’s when the Joe closes on Christmas Eve.
• Last year Wegman’s closed at 6pm on Christmas Eve. That will continue this year according to the corporate office.
• It’s a strong possibility that your neighborhood Food Lion will be open until 11 pm Christmas Eve, but to be sure, head to their store locator the day of to confirm.

Gas Station Goodies You Can Nab Late Night

• The name says it all, at 7/11 you can enjoy a Slurpee and grab your nephew a handful of candy for his stocking 24/7.
• Many Wawa gas stations operate 24/7, but to be sure, check out Wawa’s store locator page.
• Circle K gas stations operate until 11 p.m. so you can throw a couple packs of gum into a stocking.

Other Must Haves

• It’s hit or miss with Starbucks as store hours are subject to each individual store. That said, typically you can find one open on Christmas Eve, just check with your local branch. You might need to score a last minute gift card.
• Country Living reports that Dollar General will be open Christmas Eve, but not Christmas Day so plan accordingly.

Now that you're armed and ready, you can face the last minute Christmas shopping panic like a pro! Just don't forget your wallet.