Are petrol stations and shops open on Christmas day? Full details as changes announced

After weeks of anticipation and preparation, Christmas day has finally arrived. All across Ireland, homes are filled with family gatherings, the sparkle of festive decorations and the delicious smell of Christmas dinners in the making.

Yet, despite the best-laid plans, it’s not uncommon to realise on Christmas morning that something vital has been overlooked on the shopping list. Perhaps it’s a missing ingredient for the dinner, batteries for a new toy or even an extra bottle of wine for unexpected guests. If this sounds familiar, you might be wondering if there’s still a chance to pick up what you need today.

Unfortunately, as Christmas day is a public holiday, the majority of businesses - including most supermarkets - will be closed to allow staff to enjoy the day off with their families. This tradition means that last-minute shopping options are significantly limited.

That said, not all hope is lost. A few exceptions exist to the general rule, as certain convenience stores, petrol stations and pharmacies often remain open on Christmas day, albeit with reduced hours. These locations can be lifesavers for anyone in need of essentials, so it’s worth checking with your local shops if you find yourself in a bind.

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Looking ahead to St Stephen’s Day, shoppers should also be aware that changes to usual business hours are common. Many supermarkets will operate on reduced schedules, and some may choose to remain closed entirely for an additional day of rest for their employees.

To help you navigate the festive season without unnecessary stress, we’ve put together a handy guide to Christmas supermarket opening hours. Whether you’re planning ahead for St Stephen’s Day or hoping to locate a store that’s open today, we’ve got you covered with all the information you need.

Dunnes

Dunnes Stores is a favourite for Christmas essentials and in the lead-up to the big day, some stores extended their operating hours until 2am.

All of their stores will close nationwide on both Christmas Day and St Stephen's Day. Find your local store’s opening hours here.

Tesco

Tesco also offered extended opening hours during the run-up to the festive season.

All Tesco stores will close for Christmas Day. Some will remain closed for St Stephen's Day while others will reopen on the 26th from 10am until 8pm. Find your local store’s opening hours here.

Aldi

Aldi stores nationwide will be closed Christmas Day, St Stephen’s Day and New Year’s Day.

Christmas Day and St Stephen’s Day: Closed Friday, Dec 27 to Monday, Dec 30: 8am - 9pm New Year’s Eve: 8am - 7pm New Year’s Day: Closed

A spokesperson said these are opening hours for standard stores and a number of non-standard stores will operate different hours. You can check your local store here.

Lidl

Lidl will also close their stores nationwide on Christmas Day, St Stephen's Day and New Year’s Day.

Christmas Day and St Stephen’s Day: Closed Friday, Dec 27 and Saturday, Dec 28: 8am - 10pm Sunday, Dec 29: 8am - 9pm Monday, Dec 30: 8am -10pm New Year’s Eve: 8am - 6pm New Year’s Day: Closed
SuperValu

Supervalu branches are each run individually and will operate with varying opening hours over Christmas. All stores will be closed on Christmas Day while certain stores will reopen on St Stephen's Day at 10am and close early at 6pm. You can find your local supermarket using their store locator here.

Petrol stations

Like most retail businesses, it's relatively uncommon for petrol stations to remain open on Christmas Day. However, there are some exceptions to the rule, particularly those located along major motorways. Others may be operating at reduced hours.

It is advised to check directly with your local petrol station in advance before travelling on Christmas Day.

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