What's Open on Christmas Day in Boston: A Festive Guide

Christmas Day in Boston is a unique experience. While the city takes a collective breath, many establishments close their doors to allow employees to celebrate the holiday with their families. However, for those who don’t celebrate Christmas, are traveling, or simply want to venture out, finding open businesses can feel like navigating a snowy maze. Fear not! This guide unveils the hidden gems and essential services that remain accessible on December 25th in Boston.

Table of Contents

Dining Options for a Christmas Day Feast (or Just a Bite)

Finding a satisfying meal on Christmas Day requires planning. Many restaurants are closed, but a select few, particularly those in hotels or offering specific holiday menus, keep their kitchens running. It’s always wise to call ahead and confirm hours and availability.

Hotel Restaurants: A Reliable Choice

Hotel restaurants often cater to travelers and guests who might not have alternative dining options. Consider checking out restaurants within larger hotels such as the Fairmont Copley Plaza, the Boston Harbor Hotel, or the Four Seasons Hotel One Dalton Street, Boston. These establishments frequently offer special Christmas Day brunch, lunch, or dinner menus. Expect elegant settings and potentially higher price points. Reservations are crucial.

Chinese Restaurants: A Christmas Tradition

The tradition of eating Chinese food on Christmas Day is deeply rooted in American culture. Many Chinese restaurants in Boston remain open, offering a comforting and convenient option. Areas like Chinatown are your best bet. Check out restaurants like China Pearl or Gourmet Dumpling House, but be sure to call in advance to confirm their hours. Be prepared for potential crowds, especially during peak meal times.

Some Independent Restaurants: Hidden Gems

A few independent restaurants, recognizing the demand, choose to open on Christmas Day. These might include ethnic eateries, diners, or establishments that cater to a specific clientele. Websites such as Yelp and OpenTable are helpful for searching for open restaurants and making reservations. Don’t overlook smaller, neighborhood restaurants; sometimes, these are the most welcoming and affordable options. Call them directly to confirm they are open.

Grab-and-Go and Convenience Stores: Quick Bites

For a less formal meal, some convenience stores and smaller grocery stores may be open, offering snacks, drinks, and basic food items. Check local chains like CVS or Walgreens, as they often have limited holiday hours. While not a gourmet experience, these stores can be a lifesaver when you need a quick bite or a forgotten essential.

Entertainment and Activities: Festive Fun Beyond the Presents

While many museums and attractions close for Christmas Day, a few options remain for those seeking entertainment.

Movie Theaters: A Classic Holiday Escape

Going to the movies is a popular Christmas Day activity. Most movie theaters, including larger chains like AMC and Showcase Cinemas, remain open. Check showtimes online and consider purchasing tickets in advance to avoid potential sell-outs. It’s a great way to escape the cold and enjoy some cinematic entertainment.

Ice Skating: A Winter Wonderland Experience

If the weather cooperates, outdoor ice-skating rinks can be a magical Christmas Day activity. The Boston Common Frog Pond is often open on Christmas Day, offering a festive atmosphere and a chance to embrace the winter season. Check their website for updated hours and any weather-related closures.

Walking Tours: Exploring a Quiet City

Boston is a beautiful city, and a self-guided walking tour can be a rewarding way to spend Christmas Day. The Freedom Trail, the Boston Public Garden, and the Charles River Esplanade are all scenic areas that are accessible year-round. Dress warmly and enjoy the peace and quiet of a relatively empty city.

Bowling Alleys: Strike Up Some Fun

Some bowling alleys remain open on Christmas Day, providing a fun and active option for families and friends. Check local bowling alleys for their holiday hours and consider making a reservation, especially if you have a larger group.

Essential Services: What’s Available When You Need It

Knowing which essential services are available on Christmas Day can be crucial, especially for travelers or those facing unexpected situations.

Pharmacies: Health and Wellness

Select pharmacies, particularly larger chains, maintain limited hours on Christmas Day. CVS and Walgreens are your best bet for finding an open pharmacy. Call ahead to confirm their hours and ensure they have the medications or supplies you need.

Transportation: Getting Around the City

Public transportation schedules are typically reduced on Christmas Day. The MBTA (Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority) operates on a Sunday schedule. Plan your travel accordingly and check the MBTA website for specific route information and any potential delays. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are usually available, but expect increased fares due to high demand.

Emergency Services: Always Available

Police, fire, and ambulance services operate as usual on Christmas Day. In case of an emergency, dial 911. Hospitals and emergency rooms are also open 24/7.

Tips for Navigating Christmas Day in Boston

Planning is key to a successful Christmas Day in Boston. Here are some essential tips to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience:

Call Ahead: Always confirm the hours of operation before heading to any establishment. Holiday hours can vary, and websites may not always be up-to-date.
Make Reservations: If you plan to dine at a restaurant, make a reservation well in advance. Christmas Day is a busy day for those restaurants that are open.
Check Transportation Schedules: Public transportation operates on a reduced schedule. Plan your travel accordingly and allow extra time.
Dress Warmly: Boston winters are cold. Dress in layers and be prepared for potentially snowy or icy conditions.
Be Patient: Expect crowds and potential delays. Patience is key to enjoying your Christmas Day activities.

Exploring Specific Neighborhoods

Different neighborhoods in Boston offer unique Christmas Day experiences. Here’s a brief overview of what to expect in some popular areas:

Chinatown: A reliable option for dining, with many Chinese restaurants open on Christmas Day.
Back Bay: Check hotel restaurants for special holiday menus and upscale dining options.
Downtown: Movie theaters and some department stores may be open.
North End: While many Italian restaurants are closed, some smaller cafes might be open for coffee and pastries.

Beyond the City: Exploring Greater Boston

If you’re willing to venture outside of Boston, you may find even more options.

Suburban Restaurants: Some restaurants in the suburbs may be open, particularly those catering to local communities.
Shopping Malls: A few shopping malls might have limited hours, especially department stores. Check their websites for specific information.

Remember to Check Online Resources

Numerous online resources can help you find open businesses on Christmas Day. Websites such as Yelp, OpenTable, Google Maps, and local news websites often provide updated information. Social media groups and forums can also be valuable sources of information.

Conclusion: Embrace the Unexpected

Christmas Day in Boston can be a unique and memorable experience. While many establishments are closed, a select few remain open, offering dining, entertainment, and essential services. By planning ahead, checking hours, and being prepared for potential crowds, you can navigate the city with ease and enjoy a festive holiday. Remember to embrace the unexpected and appreciate the peace and quiet of a relatively empty city. The key is to be prepared and flexible. Happy Holidays!

Are restaurants in Boston generally open on Christmas Day?

While many restaurants close on Christmas Day to allow their staff to spend time with family, some establishments, particularly those offering ethnic cuisines like Chinese, Indian, or Japanese, often remain open. It’s always best to call ahead to confirm their hours of operation and availability, especially for holiday-specific menus or reservations. Many hotels also have restaurants that cater to guests and often offer Christmas Day dining options.

Reservations are highly recommended as those restaurants that are open tend to fill up quickly. Websites like OpenTable or Resy can be helpful for finding available reservations. Don’t forget to check if they have a special Christmas Day menu with adjusted prices compared to their usual offerings. Planning ahead is crucial for a stress-free Christmas Day dining experience.

Are any tourist attractions in Boston open on Christmas Day?

Many of Boston’s most popular tourist attractions are closed on Christmas Day, including museums like the Museum of Fine Arts and the Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum. Check the official websites of individual attractions in advance to confirm their specific holiday hours. The New England Aquarium is often an exception, but double-check their website for the most up-to-date information before planning your visit.

However, outdoor spaces like Boston Common and the Public Garden remain open for leisurely strolls. You could enjoy the winter scenery and perhaps even spot some holiday decorations. Also, consider that walking tours are often curtailed on Christmas day.

Can I find grocery stores open on Christmas Day in Boston?

Finding major grocery chains open on Christmas Day in Boston is difficult. Most large supermarket chains such as Stop & Shop, Wegmans, and Whole Foods will be closed. However, some smaller convenience stores, drugstores (like CVS or Walgreens), and gas station stores might be open, but with limited hours.

It’s essential to plan ahead and purchase groceries before Christmas Day if you need anything specific. Don’t count on finding a fully stocked grocery store open. Check the operating hours of smaller stores near you in advance, as these may vary and change closer to Christmas.

Are movie theaters in Boston open on Christmas Day?

Yes, movie theaters are generally open on Christmas Day in Boston, offering a popular entertainment option for many. Major chains like AMC, Showcase Cinemas, and Regal Cinemas typically have showings, often featuring new releases that are specifically timed for the holiday season. This makes it a reliable choice for a festive outing.

However, showtimes can vary, and certain theaters might have reduced operating hours. It’s advisable to check the theater’s website or use a movie ticket app to confirm the showtimes and purchase tickets in advance, as popular movies tend to sell out quickly. This helps guarantee seating and avoids potential disappointment.

Is public transportation running on Christmas Day in Boston?

The MBTA, Boston’s public transportation system, typically operates on a Sunday schedule on Christmas Day. This means that services like the subway (Green Line, Red Line, Blue Line, Orange Line), buses, and commuter rail will run less frequently than usual. Commuter rail schedules may be even more limited.

It’s crucial to consult the MBTA website or app for the specific Sunday schedule and plan your travels accordingly. Allow for extra travel time due to the reduced service frequency. Also, consider that some routes may have modified services or may be temporarily suspended.

Are pharmacies open on Christmas Day in Boston?

While not all pharmacies are open on Christmas Day, some national chains like CVS and Walgreens typically keep a limited number of their stores open, often with reduced hours. This is a valuable option if you need to pick up essential medications or other healthcare supplies. However, local, independently-owned pharmacies are usually closed.

Confirm the operating hours of the specific pharmacy you plan to visit by checking its website or calling ahead. Opening times might differ significantly between locations, and pharmacy services may be limited compared to regular days. Check if the pharmacy has a 24-hour option or a drive-through for faster service if possible.

Can I find coffee shops open on Christmas Day in Boston?

While many smaller, independent coffee shops may choose to close on Christmas Day, you can often find national chains like Starbucks or Dunkin’ Donuts open, typically with reduced hours. This provides a convenient option for a quick caffeine fix or a light snack if you’re out and about. Availability will vary by location.

It’s recommended to check the specific location’s hours online or via their mobile app to avoid disappointment. Holiday hours can differ, and some locations may only be open for a portion of the day. You can also use online search engines to find coffee shops in your neighborhood and determine if they are open on Christmas.

What’s Open on Christmas Day in Boston: A Festive Guide