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What Is Open on Christmas Day 2025 in Houston?

While many businesses close on Christmas Day, plenty of essential stores, convenience shops, restaurants, and family-friendly attractions remain open, often with limited or modified hours. From drugstores and grocery stores to outdoor activities and holiday light displays, Houston families still have options on December 25.

What Can Families Do on Christmas Day? (Fun Activities That Are Open)

1. Enjoy Neighborhood Christmas Lights

Drive around Prestonwood Forest in Northwest Houston to see the beautiful (and insanely elaborate) holiday light displays on all homes. Each street has its own theme. And, of course, the homes in the Heights, River Oaks, and the Duke Family Christmas Light Show are always a sight to see. Check out our other favorites in our Best Neighborhood Christmas Lights article.

2. Head South to Moody Gardens

Take a day trip to Galveston and celebrate Christmas by the bay. There are some fun things to do on Christmas Day, like Moody Gardens' Holiday in the Gardens, which includes the ever-popular Festival of Lights and a Christmas Day buffet or brunch.

3. Visit Santa's Wonderland

What better way to celebrate Christmas Day than at Santa's Wonderland? Go snow sledding, take hayrides and train rides, roast s'mores, and visit with St. Nick himself. 

RELATED: 27 Free Holiday and Christmas Events in Houston for Kids

Take a drive through elaborate holiday light displays on Christmas Day. Photo courtesy of Dasher's Light Show/Facebook

4. Head to Your Favorite Water Park for Christmas Light Displays

Christmas at Big Rivers, The Light Park at Typhoon Texas, and Hurricane Harbor Splashtown are all open on Christmas Day. Crank up the Christmas tunes and enjoy some spectacular light displays! 

5. See Live Entertainment at Magical Winter Lights

Prepare to be dazzled by some of the best holiday light displays around town. Located at the Fort Bend County Fairgrounds, Magical Winter Lights is definitely worth a visit. There is also live entertainment, interactive exhibits, and towering lantern showcases.

RELATED: Best Neighborhood Christmas Light Displays and Holiday Lights in Houston

 
Lace up your skates on Christmas Day at Discovery Green. Photo courtesy of Discovery Green 

6. Go Ice Skating at Discovery Green or The Woodlands Ice Rink

Either head downtown to Discovery Green or up north in The Woodlands near Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion for some outdoor ice skating. You can even make a day of it by enjoying Christmas brunch at The Woodlands Resort and then checking out any trails in our Top Things to Do in The Woodlands. 

7. Stroll the Kemah Boardwalk

The Kemah Boardwalk is open on Christmas day for memory-making merriment. Ride epic rides, dine on fresh seafood, and more after soaking in some holiday cheer.

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

Walgreens and CVS

Drugstores are the most reliable Christmas Day option. Many locations stay open, often with reduced hours, and stock batteries, small toys and gifts, candy, gift wrap, and basic groceries and household essentials. Hours vary by location, so it’s best to check online or call ahead.

Convenience Stores (7-Eleven, Circle K, etc.)

Most convenience stores are open 24/7 on Christmas Day. While they’re not ideal for big shopping trips, they’re great for snacks, drinks, ice, and quick essentials. Texans' favorite Buc-ee's is also an option for a trip out and last-minute gifts.

Are Any Grocery Stores Open on Christmas Day 2025 in Houston?

Major Chains That Are Open in Houston 

The major chain grocery stores aren't usually open in Houston. However, you should find Asian supermarkets like 99 Ranch Market and H-Mart still open for business. Check hours before setting off!

Grocery Stores Typically Closed

• H-E-B
• Kroger
• Walmart
• Whole Foods Market
• Trader Joe’s
• Aldi

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

Is Walmart Open on Christmas?

No. Walmart is closed on Christmas Day nationwide. Stores typically reopen early on December 26. If you need something urgently, check nearby drugstores, gas station marts, or Walmart’s online pickup options for the following day.

Is Target Open on Christmas?

No. Target is also closed on December 25. Like Walmart, stores reopen on December 26 with regular or extended hours.

Is Costco Open on Christmas?

No. Costco is closed on Christmas Day, as part of its standard holiday closure schedule. Warehouses reopen on December 26.

FAQ - What’s Open on Christmas Day 2025?

Is Walmart open on Christmas Day?

No. Walmart is closed on December 25, 2025, and reopens on December 26.

Are grocery stores open on Christmas?

A few are, but most major grocery chains are closed. Convenience stores and Asian grocery stores may be open.

Are gas stations open on Christmas?

Yes. Most gas stations and their attached convenience stores remain open, including 7-Eleven, Buc-ee's and Circle K.

Are restaurants open on Christmas Day?

Yes. Many chain restaurants like Denny’s, IHOP, and Waffle House are open, along with hotel restaurants and select local eateries. Check out our list of Best Family-Friendly Restaurants Open on Christmas Day in Houston.

What can you do with kids on Christmas Day if you don’t celebrate or want to get out?

Go ice skating, see holiday lights, visit the Kemah Boardwalk, take a movie break, or enjoy outdoor walks and parks. Find out more in our Guide to Holiday and Christmas Events for Houston Families.

Is Starbucks open on Christmas Day?

You may find a Starbucks open near you, but some Starbucks close on Christmas Day. Check the Starbucks app for your nearest location.

Are malls or shopping centers open on Christmas?

Most malls are closed, though movie theaters, restaurants, or food courts with exterior entrances may operate independently.