Yes, Costco is typically open on December 24, but with reduced holiday hours. Most warehouses operate on a shortened schedule on Christmas Eve, commonly closing earlier than usual—often by 5:00 PM or 6:00 PM local time. This makes Christmas Eve one of the busiest shopping days of the year at Costco, especially for last-minute grocery, beverage, and gift purchases. If you're wondering 'is Costco open on December 24' for your holiday preparations, the answer is generally yes—but always confirm with your local warehouse, as operating hours can vary by location due to regional regulations, store type, and staffing.
Quick Overview: Is Costco Open on December 24?
In short, yes, most Costco warehouses are open on December 24, also known as Christmas Eve. However, they do not follow their regular weekday operating hours. Instead, stores observe a holiday schedule with early closure. While exact times differ, many locations close between 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM. It’s important to note that Costco closes completely on December 25 (Christmas Day), so December 24 represents the final opportunity for members to shop in-store before the holiday.
Typical Holiday Operating Policy at Costco
Costco Wholesale has a consistent national policy regarding major holidays. The company observes several key holidays each year when all warehouses are closed. These include:
- New Year’s Day (January 1) – Open
- Martin Luther King Jr. Day – Open
- Presidents’ Day – Open
- Memorial Day – Open
- Independence Day (July 4) – Open
- Labor Day – Open
- Veterans Day – Open
- Thanksgiving Day – Closed
- Christmas Day – Closed
Of these, only Thanksgiving and Christmas Day result in full closures across all U.S., Canadian, and most international locations. All other federal holidays see normal or slightly adjusted operations.
On the eve of major holidays like Christmas and Thanksgiving, Costco often adopts abbreviated hours. For example, stores may close early on Thanksgiving Eve and Christmas Eve. This practice helps employees spend time with family while still serving customers preparing holiday meals.
Why Store Hours May Vary by Location
Although Costco operates under a centralized corporate structure, there are several factors that can influence individual warehouse hours on December 24:
- Local Laws and Ordinances: Some states or municipalities have blue laws restricting retail operations on certain days or after specific evening hours. While this rarely affects Christmas Eve, it can play a role in early closures.
- Store Type and Location: Warehouses located inside shopping centers may need to align their closing times with mall management rules. Standalone locations usually have more flexibility.
- Regional Demand and Staffing: High-demand urban areas might keep slightly later hours compared to rural branches, depending on staffing availability and expected foot traffic.
- International Locations: Outside the U.S., such as in Canada, the UK, Mexico, Japan, and Australia, holiday schedules may differ based on local customs and legal requirements. Always check country-specific details if traveling or living abroad.
Despite these variables, the general rule remains: Costco is open on December 24 with reduced hours, but never on December 25.
Why December 24 Matters: The Significance of Christmas Eve Shopping
December 24 is one of the most critical retail days of the year. As families finalize holiday meal preparations, host last-minute guests, or pick up forgotten ingredients, demand surges for items like meat trays, cheese platters, wines, sparkling beverages, desserts, and party supplies—all staples available at Costco.
Because Costco offers bulk pricing and high-quality private-label Kirkland Signature products, many shoppers rely on the warehouse club for cost-effective holiday entertaining. This drives significant traffic on Christmas Eve, often making it one of the busiest single-day shopping events outside of Black Friday.
How Christmas Eve Compares to Other Holiday Shopping Days
Unlike Thanksgiving Eve (the day before Thanksgiving), which sees similar rush patterns, Christmas Eve combines gift buying, food stocking, and emergency replacements. Additionally, since Costco closes on Christmas Day, there is no second chance for in-person shopping once the warehouse shuts down.
In contrast, other holidays like Independence Day or Labor Day do not disrupt operations because they fall on non-closing days. Even Thanksgiving, though a full closure, is preceded by heavy shopping two days prior (Black Friday being the next business day). But with Christmas falling on different weekdays annually, the proximity of December 24 to the weekend or midweek affects crowd levels.
| Holiday | Is Costco Open? | Typical Hours |
|---|---|---|
| Christmas Eve (Dec 24) | Yes (Most Locations) | 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM or 6:00 PM |
| Christmas Day (Dec 25) | No | Closed |
| New Year’s Eve (Dec 31) | Yes | Regular or Slightly Reduced |
| New Year’s Day (Jan 1) | Yes | Regular Hours |
| Thanksgiving Day | No | Closed |
| Thanksgiving Eve | Yes | Early Closure (e.g., 5:00 PM) |
Practical Tips for Planning Your December 24 Costco Visit
If you plan to visit Costco on Christmas Eve, proper preparation is essential to avoid long lines, sold-out items, or arriving after closure. Here are actionable steps to ensure a smooth experience:
1. Confirm Hours Early
Do not assume your local warehouse follows the standard early-closure model. Visit costco.com and use the warehouse locator tool to find your nearest location. Enter your ZIP code, select the warehouse, and view its holiday hours under “Hours & Directions.”
2. Use the Costco App
The official Costco app (available on iOS and Android) provides real-time updates on store hours, including temporary changes. You can also set location-based alerts and access digital membership cards.
3. Call Ahead
If online information is unclear, call your local warehouse directly. Phone numbers are listed on the website and in Google Maps. Ask specifically: “What time does Costco close on December 24?”
4. Shop Early in the Day
Arrive in the morning or early afternoon. Crowds peak between 11:00 AM and 4:00 PM. Early birds enjoy shorter lines, better stock availability, and faster checkout.
5. Consider Online Alternatives
If visiting in person isn’t feasible, explore Costco Grocery Delivery via Instacart or the Costco app. Many popular holiday items—including turkeys, hams, cakes, wine, and snacks—are available for same-day or next-day delivery in eligible areas.
6. Have a Backup Plan
If your local warehouse closes unusually early or sells out of key items, consider nearby alternatives like Sam’s Club (if you’re a member), grocery pickup services (Kroger, Safeway, Albertsons), or local supermarkets that remain open later on Christmas Eve.
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Check Costco Hours on December 24
- Go to https://www.costco.com
- Click “Warehouse Locator” at the top menu
- Enter your ZIP code or city/state
- Select your preferred warehouse
- Check the “Holiday Hours” section below regular hours
- If no holiday notice appears, call the warehouse using the provided phone number
- Verify again the night before or morning of December 24
Note: Holiday hours are subject to change annually. Just because your warehouse closed at 5:00 PM in 2024 doesn’t guarantee the same for 2025. Always reconfirm each year.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Costco open on December 24, 2025?
Yes, Costco is expected to be open on December 24, 2025, with reduced holiday hours, likely closing between 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM. Exact times will be confirmed closer to the date.
What time does Costco close on Christmas Eve?
Most warehouses close between 3:00 PM and 6:00 PM on December 24. The exact time varies by location. Check your local warehouse’s page on costco.com for precise details.
Is Costco closed on Christmas Day?
Yes, all Costco warehouses worldwide are closed on December 25 (Christmas Day). No in-store shopping or pharmacy services are available.
Can I get Costco delivery on December 24?
Yes, Costco partners with Instacart and offers in-house delivery through the Costco app. Delivery cutoffs may occur earlier than usual on Christmas Eve, so place orders by midday to ensure timely arrival.
Does the Costco pharmacy open on December 24?
Pharmacy departments operate on the same reduced schedule as the main warehouse. They typically close by 5:00 PM or earlier. Refills and prescriptions should be picked up before late afternoon.
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