Walmart Holiday Hours: Your Guide to Shopping During the Holidays

The holiday season is a whirlwind of gift shopping, family gatherings, and festive cheer. For many, Walmart is a go-to destination for everything from decorations and groceries to electronics and toys. But with varying holiday schedules, it’s crucial to know Walmart’s holiday hours to avoid showing up to a closed store. This comprehensive guide will provide you with the information you need to plan your holiday shopping trips to Walmart effectively.

Understanding Walmart’s General Operating Hours

Before diving into the specific holiday hours, it’s helpful to understand Walmart’s typical operating schedule. Most Walmart stores are open for extended hours, often from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM, or even 24 hours in some locations. However, these hours can vary depending on the store’s location and local regulations. Always check with your local Walmart to confirm their standard operating hours.

How to Find Your Local Walmart’s Hours

The easiest way to find your local Walmart’s hours is to use the Walmart Store Finder on their website or app. Simply enter your zip code or city, and the Store Finder will display a list of nearby Walmart stores along with their addresses, phone numbers, and current hours. You can also call your local store directly to inquire about their hours.

Walmart Holiday Hours: A Detailed Breakdown

Now, let’s delve into the specifics of Walmart’s holiday hours for major holidays throughout the year. Keep in mind that these are general guidelines, and it’s always best to confirm the hours with your local store.

Thanksgiving Day

Thanksgiving Day is a significant holiday, and Walmart’s hours on this day have varied in recent years. In the past, Walmart stores have typically been closed on Thanksgiving Day to allow associates to spend time with their families. However, in some years, they have opened for a few hours in the evening to kick off Black Friday sales. In 2023, it’s expected that Walmart will remain CLOSED on Thanksgiving Day. This allows employees to enjoy the holiday with their loved ones. Be sure to check your local store listings as the holiday approaches for any potential changes, but plan on doing your shopping either before or after Thanksgiving Day.

Black Friday

Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving, is one of the biggest shopping days of the year, and Walmart is a major player in the Black Friday frenzy. Walmart typically opens early on Black Friday, often at 5:00 AM or 6:00 AM, with special deals and promotions available throughout the day. Expect large crowds and potentially long lines, especially for popular items. Walmart also offers online Black Friday deals, which often start even earlier than the in-store sales. Consider strategizing your shopping plan and prioritizing the items you want most. Early birds get the worm, especially on Black Friday.

In recent years, Walmart has extended its Black Friday sales beyond just one day, often starting online sales several days or even weeks before Thanksgiving. This allows customers to get a head start on their holiday shopping and avoid the crowds on Black Friday itself. Be sure to check Walmart’s website and app for early Black Friday deals.

Christmas Eve

Christmas Eve is another important shopping day, as many people are still scrambling to find last-minute gifts and groceries for their holiday meals. Walmart typically operates on reduced hours on Christmas Eve, often closing around 6:00 PM or 8:00 PM. This allows associates to get home and spend time with their families on Christmas Eve. Make sure to plan your shopping accordingly and avoid waiting until the last minute. You can expect increased foot traffic as the holiday approaches, so plan for a potentially longer shopping trip.

Christmas Day

Like Thanksgiving, Walmart stores are typically CLOSED on Christmas Day. This allows associates to celebrate the holiday with their families and friends. You will not be able to shop at Walmart on Christmas Day. Plan ahead and make sure you have everything you need before Christmas Day arrives. Any last minute shopping will need to happen at another retailer that chooses to open on December 25th, but be aware that the number of retailers doing so are few and far between.

New Year’s Eve

New Year’s Eve is a festive occasion, and Walmart typically operates on reduced hours on this day. Many stores will close earlier than their regular closing time, often around 8:00 PM or 10:00 PM. This allows associates to prepare for the New Year’s celebrations. Check your local Walmart’s hours to confirm their specific closing time.

New Year’s Day

Walmart stores are typically OPEN on New Year’s Day, but they may operate on slightly reduced hours. Many stores will open at their regular time, but they may close a few hours earlier than usual. This gives employees a chance to recover from the New Year’s Eve celebrations. Check your local store hours to confirm specific times as it’s often dependant on location. New Years Day is often a great day to find deals on Christmas clearance items, as stores are looking to move leftover inventory quickly.

Easter

Walmart stores are generally OPEN on Easter Sunday. Most stores will operate during their regular Sunday hours, but it’s always best to check with your local store to confirm. You can find Easter candy, decorations, and other holiday essentials at Walmart during this time. Easter is generally a busy shopping day, as families prepare for Easter egg hunts and other celebrations.

Memorial Day

Walmart stores are typically OPEN on Memorial Day. Memorial Day is a federal holiday in the United States for honoring and mourning the military personnel who have died while serving in the United States Armed Forces. Many retailers, including Walmart, hold sales to commemorate the holiday. Expect normal operating hours, but check with your local store to be sure, especially if your local Walmart is in a region particularly impacted by the holiday.

Independence Day (July 4th)

Walmart stores are usually OPEN on Independence Day, also known as the Fourth of July. This is a federal holiday in the United States commemorating the Declaration of Independence of the United States, on July 4, 1776. Many people celebrate with barbecues, fireworks, and other festivities. Walmart typically operates under regular hours or slightly reduced hours, so check with your local store for specific times. Walmart is a popular destination for grilling supplies, party decorations, and other items for celebrating the Fourth of July.

Labor Day

Walmart stores are typically OPEN on Labor Day. Labor Day in the United States is a public holiday celebrated on the first Monday in September. It honors the American labor movement and the contributions that workers have made to the prosperity, laws, and well-being of the country. Walmart usually maintains normal operating hours, but it’s always wise to double-check with your local Walmart to ensure they haven’t made adjustments. Labor Day often marks the end of summer sales, so expect some good deals.

Tips for Holiday Shopping at Walmart

To make your holiday shopping experience at Walmart as smooth as possible, here are a few tips:

• Check your local store’s hours: As mentioned earlier, holiday hours can vary by location. Always confirm the hours with your local Walmart before heading out.
• Shop early: Avoid the last-minute rush by shopping early in the holiday season. This will give you more time to find the perfect gifts and avoid the crowds.
• Shop online: Walmart’s website and app offer a wide selection of products, often with the same deals as in-store. Shopping online can save you time and hassle.
• Take advantage of online order pickup: If you prefer to shop online but don’t want to wait for shipping, you can use Walmart’s online order pickup service. Simply place your order online and pick it up at your local store at your convenience.
• Use the Walmart app: The Walmart app can help you find products, check prices, and track your orders. It also allows you to scan barcodes in-store to see if an item is available online for a lower price.
• Be patient and courteous: The holiday season can be stressful for both shoppers and store associates. Be patient and courteous to others, and remember to thank the employees for their hard work.
• Consider Walmart+: Walmart+ offers free shipping, free grocery delivery, and other perks that can make your holiday shopping easier. Weigh the costs and benefits to see if it’s right for you.
• Plan your trips: Make a list of the items you need before you go to the store. This will help you stay focused and avoid impulse purchases.
• Compare prices: Don’t assume that Walmart always has the best prices. Compare prices with other retailers to make sure you’re getting the best deal.
• Read reviews: Before buying an item, read reviews from other customers to see what they thought of the product. This can help you avoid buying a lemon.

Walmart+ and Holiday Shopping

Walmart+ is a membership program that offers a variety of benefits, including free shipping on orders over $35, free grocery delivery, fuel discounts, and more. During the holiday season, Walmart+ can be especially valuable, as it can help you save time and money on your shopping. Here’s how Walmart+ can enhance your holiday shopping experience:

Free Shipping

With Walmart+, you get free shipping on orders over $35, which can save you a significant amount of money if you’re ordering gifts online. This eliminates the need to go to the store, saving you valuable time during the busy holiday season.

Free Grocery Delivery

Walmart+ offers free grocery delivery from your local store, which can be a lifesaver if you’re hosting holiday gatherings. You can order all of your groceries online and have them delivered right to your door, saving you time and effort.

Fuel Discounts

Walmart+ members get discounts on fuel at Walmart and Murphy gas stations. This can help you save money on gas during the holiday season, when you’re likely to be driving more than usual.

Early Access to Deals

In some cases, Walmart+ members may get early access to Black Friday deals and other holiday promotions. This gives you a head start on your shopping and increases your chances of getting the items you want before they sell out.

Mobile Scan & Go

Walmart+ members can use the Mobile Scan & Go feature in the Walmart app to scan items as they shop in-store and check out quickly at the self-checkout lanes. This can save you time and avoid long lines during the holiday rush.

Checking Holiday Hours Online

Walmart provides several ways to check holiday hours online. The most reliable methods include:

Walmart’s Official Website

Visit Walmart’s official website and use the store finder tool. Enter your location (zip code or city, state) and the tool will display a list of nearby Walmart stores. Each store listing includes the store’s address, phone number, and operating hours, including any special holiday hours. This is generally the most accurate and up-to-date source of information.

Walmart Mobile App

Download the Walmart mobile app (available for both iOS and Android). The app provides similar functionality to the website, allowing you to search for stores and view their hours. The app may also send notifications about holiday hour changes for your local store if you have location services enabled.

Google Maps

Search for “Walmart near me” on Google Maps. Google Maps will display a list of nearby Walmart stores along with their hours. However, keep in mind that Google Maps relies on information provided by Walmart and other sources, so it may not always be completely accurate. It’s still a good starting point, but confirm the hours with Walmart directly.

Third-Party Websites

Numerous third-party websites claim to track store hours, including holiday hours. However, these websites are often unreliable and may not have the most up-to-date information. It’s best to avoid relying on third-party websites for critical information like holiday hours. Stick to Walmart’s official website or app for the most accurate details.

Why Holiday Hours Can Vary

Several factors can influence Walmart’s holiday hours, including:

Location

Walmart stores in different locations may have different holiday hours due to local regulations, customer demand, and other factors. Stores in areas with higher population density or more tourist activity may be more likely to remain open for longer hours.

Store Type

Walmart operates several different types of stores, including Supercenters, Discount Stores, and Neighborhood Markets. Each store type may have different holiday hours. For example, Supercenters, which typically offer a wider range of products and services, may be more likely to remain open for longer hours than Neighborhood Markets.

Management Discretion

Individual store managers have some discretion in setting holiday hours, based on their assessment of local conditions and customer needs. A store manager may decide to adjust the hours based on factors such as weather conditions, local events, or staffing availability.

Corporate Policy

Walmart’s corporate headquarters sets the overall holiday hours policy, but individual stores may have some flexibility in implementing the policy. Corporate policy may also change from year to year, so it’s important to stay updated on the latest information.

Employee Availability

Employee availability can also impact holiday hours. If a store is short-staffed, it may be forced to reduce its hours or even close entirely. This is especially true during the holiday season, when many employees may be taking time off to be with their families.

Alternatives to Walmart During Closed Holidays

If Walmart is closed on a holiday, there are several alternatives for finding essential items:

Drugstores (CVS, Walgreens)

Drugstores like CVS and Walgreens are often open on holidays, although they may have reduced hours. These stores typically carry a limited selection of groceries, toiletries, and over-the-counter medications.

Convenience Stores (7-Eleven, Circle K)

Convenience stores like 7-Eleven and Circle K are typically open 24/7, 365 days a year. They offer a limited selection of snacks, drinks, and basic groceries.

Grocery Stores (Depending on the Holiday)

Some grocery stores may be open on certain holidays, but it’s always best to check their hours in advance. Many grocery stores are closed on major holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Online Retailers (Amazon)

Online retailers like Amazon are always open, even on holidays. However, keep in mind that shipping times may be longer during the holiday season.

Local Businesses

Some local businesses, such as restaurants and gas stations, may be open on holidays. Check with your local businesses to see if they are open and what their hours are.

Staying Updated on Holiday Hour Changes

Holiday hours can change unexpectedly due to unforeseen circumstances. To stay updated on the latest information, follow these tips:

Check Walmart’s Website Regularly

Visit Walmart’s official website frequently, especially as the holiday approaches. The website will be updated with the latest information on holiday hours.

Download the Walmart App

The Walmart app can send you notifications about holiday hour changes for your local store.

Follow Walmart on Social Media

Follow Walmart on social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter. Walmart may post updates about holiday hours on their social media channels.

Call Your Local Store

Call your local Walmart store directly to confirm their holiday hours. This is the most reliable way to get accurate information.

Common Misconceptions About Walmart Holiday Hours

There are several common misconceptions about Walmart holiday hours. Here are a few to be aware of:

All Walmart Stores Have the Same Holiday Hours

This is not true. Holiday hours can vary by location, store type, and other factors.

Walmart is Always Open 24/7

While some Walmart stores are open 24/7, most are not. And even 24/7 stores typically have reduced hours on holidays.

Walmart Always Opens Early on Black Friday

While Walmart typically opens early on Black Friday, the exact opening time can vary from year to year.

Walmart is Always Closed on Christmas Day

This is generally true, but there have been exceptions in the past. It’s always best to confirm with your local store.

Conclusion

Planning your holiday shopping effectively requires knowing Walmart’s holiday hours. By using the tips and information in this guide, you can avoid showing up to a closed store and make the most of your holiday shopping trips. Remember to always check your local store’s hours before heading out, and be patient and courteous to others during the busy holiday season. Happy shopping!

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