Christmas Eve falls on Tuesday, Dec. 24, 2024, and many essential services, including banks, post offices, and shipping providers, will operate with adjusted schedules. Whether you need to send a package, complete a banking transaction, or check mail delivery, here’s what you can expect.
Banking on Christmas Eve
Most major banks will operate on Dec. 24, but early closures are expected. Banks such as Capital One, Bank of America, PNC, Truist, and CitiBank will open their branches, though specific schedules may vary by location. Some branches, including those of PNC and Truist, are scheduled to close as early as 2 p.m.
To avoid inconvenience, confirm the operating hours of your local branch before heading out. For simpler transactions, online and mobile banking services can be a convenient alternative, particularly during the holiday season.
USPS Services and Mail Delivery
The U.S. Postal Service (USPS) confirmed its services will operate as usual on Christmas Eve, ensuring that mail delivery and post office operations proceed without interruptions.
- Post Office Hours: Branches will maintain regular hours, but it’s wise to confirm with your local office.
- Mail Delivery: Regular mail and packages will be delivered, keeping holiday correspondence on track.
If mailing packages on Christmas Eve, consider expedited options to guarantee delivery before Christmas Day.
Shipping Services: UPS and FedEx Adjustments
For last-minute deliveries or pickups, UPS and FedEx will offer services on Christmas Eve with a few adjustments.
UPS
- Delivery: Available for all services on Dec. 24.
- Pickup Restrictions:
- Air and International Air pickups must be prearranged by Dec. 19.
- Ground service pickups are not available on Christmas Eve.
- UPS Stores: Open, but hours vary by location. Contact your nearest store to confirm.
- Critical Services: For urgent needs, UPS Express Critical operates year-round. Call 1-800-714-8779 or visit upsexpresscritical.com.
FedEx
Critical Shipping Needs: FedEx Custom Critical is available 24/7, including Christmas Eve. For more information, call 1-800-762-3787.
Pickup and Delivery: Most FedEx services will be operational.
Office Hours: FedEx Office locations will run on modified schedules. Check with your local branch for precise times.
Stock Market Operations
The stock market will operate on Christmas Eve but with an early closure at 1 p.m. ET. Both the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) and NASDAQ will cease trading at this time. Investors are advised to finalize any trades or financial transactions before the early shutdown.
Grocery Stores, Restaurants, and Retail Locations
For last-minute shopping or dining out, most grocery stores and retailers will remain open, though many will close earlier than usual. Restaurants may offer limited seating times or special holiday menus, making reservations highly recommended.
Retail chains are expected to adjust their hours to accommodate last-minute holiday shoppers. Checking specific store hours in advance can help ensure your errands are completed without interruption.
Making the Most of Christmas Eve
To manage your day effectively:
- Confirm the operating hours of local branches, stores, and services to avoid wasted trips.
- Leverage online tools for banking and package tracking to save time.
- If shipping is critical, plan ahead to use express services from UPS or FedEx.
With a little planning, you can complete all your errands and enjoy a seamless start to the holiday celebrations.
Got a reaction? Share your thoughts in the comments
Enjoyed this article? Subscribe to our free newsletter for engaging stories, exclusive content, and the latest news.
