Years ago, my friend got married out of state on December 23rd. My companion and I drove the 12 hours back home on Christmas Eve Day, and by the time we got into the evening, very little was open. At one point, we were afraid that we wouldn’t make it home because we couldn’t find any open gas stations.
While I appreciate and understand why stores close on Christmas Eve, doing so can make getting essentials difficult for shoppers and travelers. Since that day, I always make sure to know what stores will remain open on Christmas Eve. One of the most important stores to consider, especially since they sell such a variety of items, is Walmart. Is Walmart open on Christmas Eve?
How Stores Generally Handle Christmas Eve Hours
Most stores are open on Christmas Eve Day but typically close earlier than their normal business hours. Walmart is no different.
Is Walmart Open on Christmas Eve?
If you’re one of those people who saves all of their Christmas shopping until the day before Christmas, you’ll want to get an early start on Christmas Eve Day! Walmart is open on Christmas Eve, but their stores will close at 6 p.m. local time. However, that still gives you plenty of time to buy what you need.
Is Sam’s Club Open on Christmas Eve?
If you need to do a larger shopping haul than one at your local Walmart, you may consider going to Sam’s Club. Like Walmart, Sam’s Club will be open on Christmas Eve until 6 p.m. local time.
Is There an Alternative Store Open on Christmas Eve?

If you need something after Walmart closes on Christmas Eve, you do have options. For instance, most Target stores are open until 8 p.m. on Christmas Eve.
Kroger is also a large grocery chain that can meet your grocery shopping needs. However, unlike Walmart, Kroger is not offering a closing time on Christmas Eve for all stores nationwide. Rather, you’re encouraged to call your local Kroger and see what their Christmas Eve hours are. My local Kroger affiliate will be open until 9 p.m. on Christmas Eve, though yours may have different hours.
Walmart Is Closed on Christmas Day
If you’re going to Walmart for last-minute shopping on Christmas Eve, make sure to buy everything you need. Walmart is closed on Christmas Day. Sam’s Club, Costco, and Target will also be closed on Christmas Day. This is the one day of the year where you likely won’t be able to shop in person as the majority of retail stores do close for Christmas Day.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re traveling or need to buy last-minute gifts or need to buy groceries for your Christmas Day celebrations, knowing is Walmart open on Christmas Eve is important. Rest assured, you can buy what you need at Walmart on Christmas Eve Day. Just make sure you’ve completed all of your shopping by the time the stores close at 6 p.m. local time.
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Melissa is a freelance writer and virtual assistant. She earned her Master’s from Southern Illinois University, and her Bachelor’s in English from the University of Michigan. When she’s not working, you can find her homeschooling her kids, reading a good book, or cooking.
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