As the year draws to a close amidst the festive cheer and Christmas Day excitement, please plan your activities. Staying on top of the shopping hours and weather warnings can pave the way for a more joyous time with family and friends.
Holiday Shopping Hours
As Christmas Day approaches, it is essential to consider that the store hours are limited. So, pull your socks and make your last-minute purchases at the earliest.
Retail giants like Target and Walmart are expected to wind down on Christmas Eve at 8 pm and 6 pm, respectively. However, they will both be closed on Christmas Day, as the workers also require time off for festive celebrations.
Grocery Stores: What’s Open and Closed on Christmas 2023?
Several grocery stores have also announced their schedules for the holiday season. Costco shoppers should complete their shopping by 5 pm on Christmas Eve. Similarly, Aldi and Hy-Vee will finish up for the day at 4 pm and 5 pm, respectively.
Those who prefer Lunds and Byerlys, Kowalski’s, and Cub Foods must wrap up by 4 pm. At the same time, Whole Foods provides more flexibility, remaining open until 7 pm, with Trader Joe’s closing at 5 pm.
Pharmacy and Liquor Store Availability
Those requiring pharmacy services during the holiday may find some CVS stores open on Christmas Day; however, such availability is still being determined. Hence, shopping for medicines and other essentials beforehand is advisable to avoid emergencies. Walgreens will provide late-minute needs up until 6 pm on Christmas Day itself.
For those planning to buy alcoholic drinks, France 44 is open until 6 pm on Christmas Day, and Total Wine is available until another hour later (till 8 pm) on Christmas Eve.
Public Transport and Delivery Services
Concerning transportation, Metro Transit will be operating on a typical Sunday/holiday schedule. However, Northstar services will not be running.
Delivery services like the post office and UPS will also be on hiatus, with no deliveries due for Christmas Day. UPS will provide delivery services on Christmas Eve.
New South Wales Weather Warnings: Rainy and Stormy Christmas?
New South Wales residents and visitors around Sydney are advised to prepare for potentially serious weather conditions.
The Melbourne Christmas Day forecast warns of heavy rain, thunderstorms and even hail. This could impact outdoor Christmas plans. Monitoring the weather updates and considering indoor alternatives like house parties is best.
Prepare for the Storm with Melbourne Christmas Day Forecast
The Sydney area has already experienced storms, although without substantial damage. However, there is a possibility of flash flooding that could make roads treacherous.
It is important to note that the State Emergency Service (SES) is already responding to storm-related incidents and preparing for further emergencies. They advise the public to remain cautious and follow all security directives.
Ensuring a “Merry” Christmas
With all these considerations in mind, people can get through the festive season with fewer headaches. It leaves more room for everyone to enjoy the harvest festival and celebrate a long, happy life.
Whether it is concerning the stores opening on Christmas Day 2023 or essential weather warnings, being well-informed is the best way to avoid eleventh-hour rushes and unexpected closures.
Staying up-to-date with the store hours, service schedules, and weather patterns will open doors to a smoother and merrier holiday season.
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