What Pharmacy Is Open on Memorial Day 2025?

When searching for what pharmacy is open on Memorial Day, the most reliable options are major national chains like CVS, Walgreens, and Walmart Pharmacy. While most standalone pharmacies may operate with reduced holiday hours, many locations remain open on Memorial Day to serve patients needing prescriptions or over-the-counter medications. Unlike federal holidays such as Thanksgiving or Christmas, Memorial Day typically sees partial retail operations, especially in high-traffic urban areas and hospital-adjacent stores. However, it’s crucial to confirm specific hours for your local branch, as pharmacy openings on Memorial Day vary by region, ownership model, and location type.

Do Pharmacies Stay Open on Memorial Day?

In general, yes—many pharmacies do stay open on Memorial Day, but not all. The majority of large chain pharmacies maintain limited operations during this federal holiday, particularly those located within supermarkets or 24-hour Walmart or Target stores. Independent pharmacies, however, are more likely to close entirely. This distinction is important for consumers seeking prescription refills, allergy medication, or first-aid supplies during the long weekend.

Chain vs. Independent Pharmacies

National pharmacy chains have standardized holiday policies that allow flexibility at the store level. For example, CVS Health and Walgreens often keep select locations open on Memorial Day, especially in densely populated areas or tourist destinations. These decisions are influenced by foot traffic patterns, staffing availability, and proximity to medical facilities. In contrast, independently owned pharmacies usually follow traditional business hours and may close completely to honor the holiday's significance.

Typical Holiday Operating Policies for Major Pharmacies

Understanding a pharmacy chain’s general holiday schedule helps predict whether they will be open on Memorial Day. Below is an overview of how top U.S. pharmacy providers handle major holidays:

CVS Pharmacy: Operates on modified schedules during most holidays. Open on Memorial Day, New Year’s Day, and July 4th with reduced hours (typically 9 AM–5 PM). Closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
Walgreens: Similar to CVS, maintains partial operations on Memorial Day. Most urban and suburban locations are open; rural branches may close. Also open on Veterans Day and Labor Day.
Walmart Pharmacy: Located inside Walmart Supercenters, these pharmacies generally align with store hours. Since many Walmarts remain open on Memorial Day, their pharmacies often do too—though hours may be shortened (e.g., 10 AM–6 PM).
Rite Aid: Has significantly reduced its footprint, but remaining locations may open selectively on Memorial Day. Always verify locally.
Kroger, Safeway, Albertsons: Grocery-based pharmacies tend to stay open if the parent store is operating. Memorial Day hours are usually shorter than regular weekdays.

It’s important to note that no single national policy guarantees every location will be open. Franchise ownership, union agreements, and regional labor laws contribute to variability.

Why Store Hours Differ Across Locations

Several factors influence whether a specific pharmacy remains open on Memorial Day:

Store Type: Pharmacies inside shopping malls often mirror mall hours, which may be closed or have limited access on holidays. Standalone or street-front locations have more autonomy.
Geographic Region: Urban centers like New York City, Los Angeles, or Chicago see higher demand for holiday services, so more pharmacies stay open. Rural towns may only have one pharmacy, which might choose to close.
Ownership Model: Company-owned stores follow corporate directives, while franchised outlets can opt out of holiday operations based on local conditions.
Local Regulations: Some states restrict retail operations on certain days, though Memorial Day is rarely subject to such rules.
Hospital Affiliation: Pharmacies connected to hospitals or urgent care clinics are far more likely to remain open 365 days a year.

Because of these variables, customers should never assume uniform availability.

Memorial Day-Specific Factors Affecting Pharmacy Hours

Memorial Day, observed on the last Monday of May, marks the unofficial start of summer and is associated with travel, outdoor activities, and family gatherings. These behaviors increase demand for certain products—sunscreen, pain relievers, motion sickness tablets, insect repellent—which incentivizes some pharmacies to stay open.

Unlike Christmas or Thanksgiving, when cultural norms emphasize family time and closure is widespread, Memorial Day carries less expectation of full shutdowns. Retailers view it as a sales opportunity due to increased consumer movement. As a result, pharmacy closures on Memorial Day are less common than on other major holidays.

Pre-Holiday and Post-Holiday Patterns

The day before Memorial Day (Saturday) often sees extended hours, especially at grocery-linked pharmacies, as people prepare for weekend trips. Sunday may also have limited availability depending on the chain. On Memorial Day itself, expect shortened hours—commonly between 8 AM and 6 PM, though some 24-hour Walmart or CVS stores may offer nighttime service.

Afternoon closures are rare, but staffing levels may be lower, leading to longer wait times for prescription processing. Patients requiring controlled substances or specialty medications should plan ahead, as inventory and technician availability could be constrained.

Practical Tips for Planning Your Visit on Memorial Day

If you need medication or health supplies over the holiday weekend, here are actionable steps to ensure access:

1. Refill Prescriptions Early

The safest strategy is to refill prescriptions before the holiday. Most insurance plans allow early refills within a grace period (often 7–10 days early). Contact your pharmacy by Thursday or Friday to avoid last-minute issues.

2. Use Online Tools to Verify Hours

All major pharmacy chains provide online store locators with updated holiday hours. Steps to check:

Visit the official website (e.g., cvs.com, walgreens.com)
Use the 'Store Locator' tool
Enter your ZIP code
Select the desired location
Check the 'Holiday Hours' section or weekly schedule

Many sites display special notices about Memorial Day operations directly on the homepage during the holiday week.

3. Call Ahead

Even if online listings suggest a pharmacy is open, call the local store directly. Staff can confirm current hours, prescription readiness, and stock status. Phone numbers are available via Google Maps, Apple Maps, or the chain’s website.

4. Leverage Mobile Apps

Download the CVS, Walgreens, or Walmart app to receive push notifications about store closures, prescription updates, and drive-thru availability. Some apps even allow photo-based prescription uploads for faster service.

5. Explore Telehealth and Delivery Options

If your local pharmacy is closed, consider digital alternatives:

CVS MinuteClinic Virtual Care: Offers online consultations and e-prescriptions.
Walgreens Find Care: Connects users with telemedicine providers who can send prescriptions to nearby open pharmacies.
Walmart+ and DoorDash/Uber Eats: Deliver OTC products from participating pharmacies within hours.

Mail-order pharmacy services (like Express Scripts or OptumRx) are also viable for maintenance medications.

6. Know Emergency Alternatives

In case of urgent medical needs:

Visit an urgent care clinic with an on-site pharmacy.
Go to a hospital emergency department—they can dispense critical medications.
Check retail clinics inside grocery stores or gas stations (e.g., Kroger Little Clinics).

Pharmacy Chain	Typical Memorial Day Status	Avg. Holiday Hours	How to Confirm
CVS Pharmacy	Most locations open	9:00 AM – 5:00 PM	Website/store locator, app, phone
Walgreens	Select locations open	8:00 AM – 6:00 PM	Online scheduler, customer service
Walmart Pharmacy	Open where store operates	10:00 AM – 6:00 PM	In-store signage, Walmart app
Rite Aid	Limited openings	Varies widely	Call local store
Grocery Pharmacies (Kroger, Safeway, etc.)	Open if store is open	Aligned with supermarket hours	Check parent store website

Frequently Asked Questions

Is CVS open on Memorial Day 2025?

Yes, most CVS Pharmacy locations will be open on Memorial Day 2025, but with reduced hours—typically 9 AM to 5 PM. Some stores in shopping malls or small towns may close. Always verify using the CVS store locator or by calling ahead.

Are Walgreens pharmacies open on Memorial Day?

Many Walgreens pharmacies remain open on Memorial Day, especially in cities and high-traffic areas. Hours are usually shortened (8 AM–6 PM), but individual stores may vary. Check the Walgreens website or app for real-time updates.

Does Walmart Pharmacy close on Memorial Day?

No, Walmart Pharmacy typically stays open on Memorial Day if the host Supercenter is operating. However, hours may be reduced compared to regular weekdays. Expect pharmacy hours around 10 AM to 6 PM. Confirm through the Walmart store finder.

Can I get my prescription filled on Memorial Day?

Yes, you can likely fill prescriptions on Memorial Day at major chain pharmacies like CVS, Walgreens, or Walmart. However, service may be slower due to limited staff. It’s best to refill early or use drive-thru and delivery options.

How can I find a pharmacy open on Memorial Day near me?

To find a pharmacy open on Memorial Day near you, use online tools like Google Maps (search “pharmacies near me” and filter by “open now”), the CVS/Walgreens store locator, or call local clinics. Mobile apps often show live hours and wait times.