Are shops closed during Christmas?

Most shops, including major supermarkets (Tesco, Asda, Sainsbury's, Aldi, Lidl, M&S), are closed on Christmas Day (Dec 25) in the UK due to legal restrictions. While smaller convenience stores might open, most retail, banks, and post offices shut. Many, but not all, re-open for Boxing Day (Dec 26) with reduced hours.

Are shops open on Christmas Day in the UK?

Virtually all major UK shops, including supermarkets (Tesco, Asda, Aldi, M&S) and high street retailers, are closed on Christmas Day by law, but you might find some exceptions like petrol station shops, motorway service station outlets, pharmacies, and very small, independent convenience stores (like some Tesco Express/Sainsbury's Local) open for limited hours, though many of these also close. Always check locally, as smaller shops are the most likely to operate, but even they may close, with food delivery apps running but restaurants setting their own hours. 

Does anything open on Christmas Day?

There are no trading restrictions for hospitality, meaning cafés, restaurants, bars and takeaway outlets can open on Christmas Day. However, many shut their doors to give staff the day off. Several major fast-food chains open a handful of stores on Christmas Day under select hours.

Are shops closed on 26th December?

While nearly everything is closed on December 25th, a lot of shops, markets, and other businesses open again on the 26th. The same can be true of Christmas Eve and New Year's Day.

Is 25 and 26 December a public holiday?

UK bank holidays between 2025 and 2026

There are two remaining bank holiday dates in 2025: 25 December (Thursday): Christmas Day. 26 December (Friday): Boxing Day.

What’s Open on Christmas Day? Retail Stores, Theaters, More

Is 26 December a working day in the UK?

Neither the 23rd or 24th are bank holidays (national holidays) in the UK. The 25th and 26th are. A lot of people will book them off though - especially if they're at the start of Christmas week. People might be off work, but it isn't an official holiday - that's reserved for the 25th and 26th this year.

Is December 25 a day off?

The winter holiday period from Christmas Day (Dec 25) through New Year's Day (Jan 1) includes several statutory holidays across Canada. While Christmas Day and New Year's Day are statutory holidays nationwide, Boxing Day (Dec 26) is recognized in some provinces and territories but not all.

Are Primark open on Boxing Day?

Yes, Primark is generally open on Boxing Day (December 26th) across the UK, but with reduced or varied hours, so you must check your specific local store's times on their website as they often open later and close earlier than usual for the post-Christmas sales. Most stores participate in Boxing Day sales, making them popular destinations, but always use the official Primark store locator to confirm hours before visiting. 

Do McDonald's close on Christmas Day?

No, not all McDonald's locations close on Christmas; many remain open with reduced hours, but it varies by franchise, so you must check your local store using the McDonald's app or restaurant locator on their website to confirm if your specific restaurant will be open on Christmas Day. 

Is the 26th of December a business day?

In cases where the more “specific” definition of business day applies, such as for the right of rescission, the observed holiday (in this example, Monday, December 26) is counted a business day, even though federal offices will be closed on that day. The same is true for Monday January 2.

Is everyone closed on Christmas Day?

There will be no public transport on the 25th, most places will be closed, make sure you book somewhere to eat, mainly pubs, restaurants or hotels. All supermarkets will be closed, you may find a small shop open.

Do you get paid on Christmas Day?

Friday, December 25th, is a federal banking holiday. The Federal Reserve pauses ACH payments on all federal holidays, which can delay direct deposit payments. If your payday falls on or immediately after this holiday, you may need to run payroll one business day early to avoid paying employees late.

Is December 24 a holiday?

in October 2024, the following are declared holidays for months of December 2025 and January 2026: December 8 - Feast of the Immaculate Conception Special non-working holiday December 24 - Christmas eve Special non-working holiday December 25 - Christmas Day Regular Holiday December 30 - Rizal Day Regular Holiday ...

What is allowed to open on Christmas Day?

On Christmas Day, small shops (under 280 sq meters), petrol stations, pharmacies, and businesses in airports/rail stations/motorway services, plus hospitality venues (restaurants, pubs, takeaways), are generally allowed to open in the UK, while large supermarkets and high-street stores (over 280 sq meters) must remain closed in England and Wales due to the Christmas Day (Trading) Act 2004. However, many smaller businesses and hospitality venues choose to close to give staff the holiday, so checking local times is always best. 

Is December 24th a working day?

Yes, December 24th (Christmas Eve) is generally a working day, not an official public holiday in most countries like the UK or Ireland, but many businesses close early or offer flexible time off as it's the day before Christmas. Official holidays are typically Christmas Day (Dec 25th) and Boxing Day (Dec 26th), with some variations by location. 

What is the 90 second rule at McDonald's?

Hi, the standard order preparation time is 90 seconds. Enjoy your next meal!

Is KFC open on Christmas Day in the UK?

Yes, some KFCs in the UK are open on Christmas Day, but the majority are closed, so you must check the "Find a KFC" page on their website for your specific location's seasonal hours, as it varies significantly, with about 80-90 branches typically opening for limited dine-in, drive-thru, and sometimes delivery (via apps like Uber Eats/Deliveroo). 

Does McDonald's pay double on Christmas Day?

No, McDonald's generally does not pay double on Christmas Day; most employees receive their standard hourly rate, as the company (especially in the UK) has a policy against extra holiday pay, though individual franchise owners in the U.S. might offer time-and-a-half, so it depends on the specific location and contract. 

Is Primark owned by Zara?

Primark is owned by Associated British Foods. Primark offers products including: baby, children's, women's and men's clothing, accessories and footwear; beauty products; housewares and confectionery. The company is known for its fast fashion and lower prices than competitors.

Do B&M open Boxing Day?

Yes, B&M stores are typically open on Boxing Day (December 26th), usually with reduced hours, often from around 8 AM to 6 PM, though this can vary, so it's best to check your specific local store's times online via the B&M website store locator before visiting. 

Is Christmas double paid?

Pay for hours worked on a holiday

Hours worked on a holiday are paid at 1.5 times the employee's hourly wage rate. For employee's paid by incentive pay, a calculation is needed to make sure the hourly wage rate is at least the minimum wage that applies to the employee.

Do I wish Merry Christmas on 24 or 25?

Family traditions shape expectations too: some families exchange greetings on the 24th evening, others on the morning of the 25th, and a few spread exchanges across several visits. Public and commercial environments are typically more flexible and accept greetings throughout December.

How to avoid holiday stress?

10 tips to reduce stress and take care of yourself during the...

1. Don't over schedule yourself. ...
2. Simplify travel and limit car time. ...
3. Manage gift giving. ...
4. Be responsible about food and alcohol consumption. ...
5. Enjoy family on your terms. ...
6. Respect differences. ...
7. Take time for yourself. ...
8. Honor the losses of the year.