The holiday countdown has reached its final hours, and for many, the “season of giving” has turned into the “season of sprinting.” Whether a busy work schedule got in the way or a name was accidentally left off your list, the pressure of finding the perfect present on December 24th is a universal experience. Fortunately, 2025 has brought about more flexible shopping options than ever before. From tech-savvy retailers offering instant digital gratification to local brick-and-mortar stores with extended curb-side services, you don’t have to settle for a generic gas station gift card. Navigating the final holiday rush requires a blend of strategy and knowing exactly where to look for high-quality items that don’t look like they were bought in a panic.
The Power of Big-Box Retailers with Curbside Pickup
When time is your greatest enemy, big-box retailers like Target, Walmart, and Best Buy become your greatest allies. In 2025, these giants have perfected the “Buy Online, Pick Up In-Store” (BOPIS) model, allowing you to secure inventory from your smartphone and drive to a designated parking spot an hour later. Target remains a fan favorite for its curated “Hearth & Hand” home decor and high-quality electronics, while Best Buy is the go-to for last-minute gaming accessories or noise-canceling headphones. Most of these locations are operating with extended hours on Christmas Eve, often staying open until 6:00 PM or 8:00 PM to accommodate the very last wave of shoppers.
Specialized Shopping Hours for 2025
To help you plan your final route, it is essential to know when the doors actually close. Below is a quick reference guide for some of the most popular last-minute destinations.
| Retailer | Christmas Eve Hours (Dec 24) | Best For |
| Target | 7:00 AM – 8:00 PM | Toys, Home Decor, Beauty Sets |
| Best Buy | 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM | Tech, Gadgets, Gaming |
| Walmart | 6:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Appliances, Basics, Stocking Stuffers |
| Barnes & Noble | 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Books, Stationery, Puzzles |
| CVS / Walgreens | Hours Vary (Many 24/7) | Premium Candies, Last-Minute Cards |
| Whole Foods | 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM | Gourmet Food Baskets, Flowers |
Local Markets and Artisanal Pop-Ups
If you want a gift that feels personal and unique, skip the mall and head to local holiday markets. In major cities, these pop-up villages often stay active through the afternoon of the 24th. These spots are goldmines for handcrafted jewelry, artisanal soaps, and small-batch food items like infused honey or organic coffee beans. Shopping locally not only supports small businesses but also ensures you walk away with a “one-of-a-kind” item that carries a story. Since these vendors are often the makers themselves, you might even get a beautiful, complimentary gift wrap that saves you another step when you get home.
The Digital Savior: Subscriptions and E-Gifts
If the weather is too frightful or the store shelves are literally bare, digital gifts are the ultimate 2025 “hero” move. We have moved far beyond the basic email voucher; today’s digital gifts are experiential. Think of a MasterClass subscription for the aspiring chef, a high-end coffee bean subscription like Atlas Coffee Club, or a premium meditation app membership like Headspace. These gifts are delivered instantly to the recipient’s inbox, but they provide value for months to come. To make it feel “physical,” you can print out the confirmation and place it inside a festive ornament or a nice card, providing something for them to actually unwrap.
Grocery Stores as Hidden Gifting Gems
Never underestimate the power of a high-end grocery store during the holidays. Markets like Whole Foods, Trader Joe’s, or regional favorites often stock impressive seasonal gift sets that go beyond just food. You can frequently find high-quality succulents, luxury candles, and imported chocolate towers that rival boutique shops. A “DIY Italian Dinner” basket—featuring premium pasta, a bottle of aged balsamic, and a sleek wooden salad bowl—can be assembled in twenty minutes and looks incredibly thoughtful. It’s a practical yet indulgent gift that anyone would be happy to receive.
Pharmacy and Convenience Stops for Finishing Touches
When it is 9:00 PM and you realize you forgot a gift for a neighbor or a distant cousin, the local pharmacy is your last line of defense. Modern drugstores like CVS and Walgreens have significantly upgraded their seasonal aisles. You can often find surprisingly good beauty gift sets from brands like La Roche-Posay or Neutrogena, as well as high-quality LEGO sets and popular board games. They are also the best place to grab those “emergency” items like extra batteries, scotch tape, or a decent bottle of sparkling cider to round out a gift.
Final Strategy for a Stress-Free Finish
The key to successful last-minute shopping is a “divide and conquer” mindset. Check store inventory online before leaving the house to avoid wasted trips. If you are heading into a crowded store, go alone rather than with a group to move faster through the aisles. Remember that the spirit of the season is about the gesture of kindness, not the price tag or the prestige of the brand. Even a simple, hand-written note paired with a favorite snack can be more meaningful than an expensive gadget bought without thought. Once you have your items, head home, put on some festive music, and enjoy the satisfaction of a mission accomplished.
FAQs
Q1 What time do most stores close on Christmas Eve?
Most major retailers like Target and Best Buy close between 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM local time on December 24th. Grocery stores often close earlier, around 5:00 PM or 6:00 PM.
Q2 Can I still get same-day delivery on December 24th?
Yes, services like Instacart, Shipt, and Uber Eats often offer same-day delivery from retailers and grocery stores, though slots fill up extremely fast on Christmas Eve.
Q3 Are any stores open on Christmas Day for gifts?
While most major retailers are closed, some convenience stores like 7-Eleven and certain CVS or Walgreens locations remain open for very basic last-minute needs.
Disclaimer
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