Christmas Eve—A Busy Day: What’s Open?

While Christmas Eve is not a federal holiday, many businesses adjust their hours. This year, Christmas Eve is on Tuesday, December 24, 2024, and most stores, restaurants, and shopping malls will be open but may close early. Notably, big retailers like Walmart, Target, and Wegmans will operate on reduced hours, closing by 6 p.m. or 8 p.m. depending on the chain.

Key Retailer Schedules: - Walmart: Closes at 6 p.m. and reopens on December 26. - Target: Closes at 8 p.m. and also reopens on December 26. - Wegmans: Closes at 6 p.m., reopening on December 26 at 6 a.m.

Some grocery stores like Tops Friendly Markets and Price Chopper will also close early, so make sure to grab your last-minute items well before closing time!

What About Christmas Day? Closed But Not Utterly Dormant

On Christmas Day, most major retailers and grocery stores will be closed. However, several chain restaurants will keep their doors open for those looking to dine out on a holiday. Notable chains like Applebee’s, McDonald’s, and Waffle House are typically open, but be sure to check with local branches for specific hours.

Interestingly, convenience stores like 7-Eleven and Wawa will remain open on Christmas Day, providing some essential services for those in need of a snack or last-minute items.

Mail and Delivery Services Take a Break

The U.S. Postal Service will not operate on Christmas Day, so anyone expecting mail should plan accordingly. Similarly, UPS and FedEx will also be closed, with no deliveries on December 25. However, Post Offices will operate on Christmas Eve with normal delivery schedules.

Emergency Services and City Operations

Most banks, government offices, and financial markets will close on Christmas Day. If you need assistance with public services, emergency contacts remain open for urgent matters. Notably, parking meters in downtown Syracuse will be free on Christmas Day, providing some relief for holiday visitors.

Pharmacies: Limited Hours

On Christmas Day, many pharmacies will be closed, but select Walgreens, CVS, and Rite Aid locations may operate on limited hours. If you need medications or essential items, it’s best to check the hours for specific pharmacies in your area.

In Summary: Planning Your Holiday

With Christmas just around the corner, planning is essential to avoid last-minute surprises. Most retailers will close early on Christmas Eve, and numerous establishments will shutter their doors entirely on Christmas Day, save for select restaurants and convenience stores. Be sure to verify local times for your favorite spots and enjoy the holiday season!