Dining Options On Christmas Eve: What Restaurants Are Open?

Christmas Day is a federal holiday, and many restaurants will close on Christmas Eve as they wind down business for the winter vacation. However, some establishments will remain open, particularly fast-food chains, though often on reduced hours. It's essential to call ahead to verify the specific hours of your local eatery, as they may vary by location.

In this article, we will explore what major fast-food chains and dining options are available on Christmas Eve, helping you find a meal during the holiday rush. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a sit-down meal, we've got you covered with details on hours and operation status.

Burger King

According to the food enthusiasts' website thefoodXP.com, Burger King is open on Christmas Eve from 6 a.m. to 12 midnight but is closed on Christmas Day. As Burger King comprises franchises, opening hours may vary depending on location.

A Burger King spokesperson told Newsweek: "Holiday hours vary by franchised location. Guests can confirm these hours at their local restaurant or online through the Burger King app."

Chick-fil-A

The chicken spot is open on Christmas Eve, but not on Christmas Day, according to its website. Opening hours on Christmas Eve may vary by location. You’ll have to pre-order that chicken for Yule!

Domino's

Domino's is open on Christmas Eve operating on reduced hours but not open on Christmas Day, according to thefoodXP.com. Most locations are open from 10 a.m. to midnight, Sunday through Thursday.

"Domino's stores are not mandated to be open on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day. Since the majority of stores in the U.S. are franchise-owned, the store hours are up to them and vary by location," a spokesperson told Newsweek.

Dunkin' Donuts

Feeling dazed and feeling like something glazed? Have no fear, because most Dunkin' Donuts locations will be open on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, The Pioneer Woman reports. Hours will vary depending on location, so check with your local franchise.

KFC

The website says that the chicken chain will not be open on Christmas Day. But it will be open usual hours on Christmas Eve and Boxing Day. These hours tend to be between 10:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m., but franchise hours may vary.

Krispy Kreme

The foodxp.com says that the donut diner is closed on Christmas Day, but will be serving doughnuts, coffee, bagels, and other food on Christmas Eve. The usual opening hours of the donut shop are from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

McDonald's

Many McDonald's locations will also be open on Christmas Eve and Day, with hours varying depending on location. As McDonald's is franchise-run, some 93 percent of locations are owned by independent business owners, according to the fast-food outlet's website. This means the business owners will set their own location's opening hours. Newsweek has contacted McDonald's for more information.

Papa John's

The pizza store's website reports that Papa John's is open on Christmas Eve but not on Christmas Day, so their employees can take a day off and spend it with their friends and family. Some locations will close early on Christmas Eve, so make sure to call ahead to find out your local diner's opening and closing times.

Pizza Hut

The Hut will be open on Christmas Eve, but on reduced hours in many locations.

Starbucks

Select Starbucks outlets will be open on Christmas Eve and Day, but not every café. Many will be running on reduced hours. Newsweek has contacted Starbucks for further information.

Subway

Thefoodxp.com says that the sandwich store is open every day of the year except for Christmas Day. Usual opening times are 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., but hours will vary according to location.

Taco Bell

The popular Mexican fast-food chain is closed on both Christmas Eve and Christmas Day, according to its website.

Wendy's

The chain will be open on Christmas Eve, and most locations will be open on Christmas, per Wendy's website. Use their location finder for the most up-to-date information on your local outlet.