Read on for some ideas for fun around town, and be sure to sign up for our newsletters to stay in the holiday loop!

What Is Open on Christmas Day 2025?

Although the majority of businesses are closed on Christmas Day, many essential stores, pharmacies, groceries, restaurants, and family activities stay open. So fear not, we’ve got you and your family covered when it comes to Christmas Day fun.

What Can Families Do on Christmas Day?

1. AMC Theaters – Port Chester

Another sequel to "Avatar" is coming to theaters in time for the holidays. "Avatar: Fire and Ash" will be released over the weekend and is a good bet for teens and young adults at AMC. Check other area theaters for showtimes on December 25, 2025. 

2. Westchester Skating Academy – Elmsford

Westchester Skating Academy has a public skating session on Christmas Day. 

3. Untermyer Gardens' Grand Holiday Illumination – Yonkers 

The Untermyer Gardens' Grand Holiday Illumination features 150,000 lights, and it's open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day.  

4. Neighborhood Holiday Light Displays – Westchester-Wide

Gazing at the beautiful holiday light displays is a favorite holiday tradition in Westchester, whether you celebrate Christmas or not. Take a tour to see the spectacular lights adorning the holiday homes around Westchester.

5. Dave & Busters – Pelham Manor

Get your game on at Dave & Buster's, which is open on Christmas Day. 

6. New York City

Is there a place more magical at Christmas than Manhattan? Take a quiet but festive holiday walk, or a visit to one of these NYC hot spots that remain open on the holiday, including theaters and museums. You can even check something off our holiday bucket list for Christmas in NYC! While Macy's may be closed, you can still see the window displays. 

7. Greenburgh Nature Center Playground – Scarsdale

Greenburgh Nature Center's Discovery Playground is a great place for a Christmas Day romp.

8. Goosefeather – Tarrytown

If you’re looking for an elegant restaurant for Christmas dinner and enjoy the tradition of eating Chinese food on Christmas Day, head to Goosefeather. And check out our rundown of other restaurants open on Christmas. 

Stores Open on Christmas Day for Last-Minute Gifts and Essentials

CVS Pharmacy 

CVS is open on Christmas Day with holiday hours. Check with your local store for hours.

Walgreens 

On your way to the in-laws and forgot something? Walgreens is open on Christmas Day for last-minute needs. Check with your local store for hours.

Are Any Grocery Stores Open on Christmas Day?

Most major grocery chains, like Whole Foods, Wegmans, Trader Joe’s, Aldi, and Costco, are closed on Christmas Day. Nevertheless, many convenience stores and coffee shops, such as 7-Eleven, Starbucks, and Safeway, will be open, but may operate with limited hours.

Are Walmart, Target, and Costco Open on Christmas Day?

No, Walmart, Target and Costco are not open on Christmas Day. However they are all open on Christmas Eve, and may have extended hours. Check with your nearest location.

FAQ: What’s Open on Christmas Day 2025?                                                                

Is Walmart open on Christmas Day?
No, Walmart is closed on December 25, 2025.

Are grocery stores open on Christmas?
Major grocery chains like Trader Joe’s and Aldi will be closed on Christmas Day. However, most 7-Eleven stores will be open, and some Abertsons and Safeway locations will be open for limited hours. Check with your local store for specific hours.

Are gas stations open on Christmas?
Yes, most gas stations and attached convenience stores (7-Eleven, Speedway, Circle K) stay open.

Are restaurants open on Christmas Day?
A great number of chain restaurants and fast food outlets, such as Perkins, Denny’s, IHOP, McDonalds, Burger King, and Waffle House are open on Christmas Day. Most Chinese restaurants remain open as well. In addition, there are a handful of local restaurants in Westchester and the Hudson Valley open on Christmas Day.

What can you do with kids on Christmas Day if you don’t celebrate or want to get out?
Go to a movie, enjoy light displays, go sledding or skating, or visit open parks and trails.

Is Starbucks open on Christmas Day?
Many locations are open, but with limited morning hours—check the app for your nearest location.

Are malls or shopping centers open on Christmas?
Almost all are closed, though some outlet food courts or movie theaters may operate independently.                                                                

Originally published December 2013 and updated for 2025.