Is Total Wine Open on Christmas? A Holiday Shopping Guide
Unfortunately, the answer is almost always no. Total Wine & More stores are typically closed on Christmas Day to allow their employees to spend the holiday with their families.
Total Wine & More: A Brief Overview
Total Wine & More is a large retailer specializing in wine, beer, and spirits. They operate a large number of stores across the United States, known for their vast selection and competitive pricing. Understanding their business model helps to explain their holiday operating procedures.
Total Wine’s Holiday Operating Philosophy
Like many retailers, Total Wine & More prioritizes their employees’ well-being, especially during major holidays. Closing on Christmas Day aligns with this philosophy, allowing staff to celebrate with their loved ones. This is a common practice in the retail industry, particularly for stores not considered essential services.
Factors Influencing Christmas Day Closures
Several factors contribute to Total Wine’s decision to close on Christmas:
- Employee Welfare: Providing employees with a guaranteed day off is a significant motivator.
- Low Consumer Demand: Historically, consumer demand for alcohol purchases on Christmas Day is significantly lower compared to other holidays or weekends.
- Operational Logistics: The cost of staffing and operating a store on Christmas Day, considering holiday pay and potentially lower sales volume, often outweighs the benefits.
- Company Policy: The company has a consistent policy of closure on Christmas Day, communicated to employees and customers well in advance.
Planning Ahead for Holiday Purchases
Given that Total Wine is closed on Christmas, it’s essential to plan ahead for your holiday beverage needs. Consider these tips:
- Shop Early: Purchase your wine, beer, and spirits well in advance of Christmas Day.
- Check Opening Hours: Verify the store’s opening hours for Christmas Eve and the days leading up to Christmas.
- Consider Alternatives: If you forget something, explore alternative options like smaller liquor stores (check their individual hours) or grocery stores that sell alcohol (depending on state laws).
- Order Online (If Available): If Total Wine offers online ordering with pickup or delivery in your area, check availability and lead times before Christmas.
What To Do If You Need Last-Minute Drinks
While Total Wine may be closed, there are a few strategies you can employ if you find yourself needing drinks on Christmas Day:
- Check Local Grocery Stores: Depending on your state laws, some grocery stores may sell beer and wine on Christmas. Check their specific hours.
- Look for Smaller Liquor Stores: Some independently owned liquor stores might choose to remain open, particularly in tourist areas. Call ahead to confirm.
- Consider a BYOB Restaurant: If you’re planning to dine out, some restaurants may allow you to bring your own wine or beer.
Alternative Beverage Options
If you can’t find a place to purchase alcohol on Christmas Day, consider these alternatives:
- Non-Alcoholic Beverages: Stock up on sparkling cider, juices, and other festive non-alcoholic drinks.
- Homemade Cocktails: Prepare mixers and ingredients in advance so you can easily make cocktails at home.
Table: Christmas Holiday Hours Comparison
| Store | Christmas Eve Hours (Typical) | Christmas Day Hours (Typical) |
|---|---|---|
| Total Wine & More | Reduced Hours | Closed |
| Grocery Stores | Variable, often reduced | Variable, some open limited hours |
| Local Liquor Stores | Variable, often reduced | Variable, some may be open |
Bullet Points: Holiday Shopping Checklist
- Confirm Total Wine’s Christmas Eve hours.
- Purchase alcohol well in advance.
- Explore alternative options (grocery stores, smaller liquor stores).
- Consider non-alcoholic beverages.
- Plan your holiday menu and beverage pairings in advance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Total Wine open on Christmas Eve?
Total Wine & More stores are typically open on Christmas Eve, but with reduced hours. It’s crucial to check your local store’s hours online or by calling ahead to confirm their specific operating schedule.
Does Total Wine ever make exceptions and open on Christmas?
It’s highly unlikely that Total Wine & More would make an exception and open on Christmas Day. Their company policy emphasizes employee well-being and there are usually no exceptions to this.
What are the typical hours of Total Wine on Christmas Eve?
The exact hours vary by location, but most Total Wine & More stores close earlier than usual on Christmas Eve, often by late afternoon or early evening. Confirming the specific hours for your local store is always recommended.
If I order online, can I pick up my order at Total Wine on Christmas Day?
No. Even if you place an online order, you won’t be able to pick it up at Total Wine & More on Christmas Day because the stores are closed completely.
What is Total Wine’s policy on other holidays?
Total Wine & More’s operating hours vary for other holidays. They are typically open on holidays like Thanksgiving (with reduced hours) and New Year’s Eve. It’s best to check their website or call your local store to confirm their specific hours for each holiday.
Are there any states where Total Wine is legally required to be open on Christmas?
It’s extremely rare for any state to legally require liquor stores to be open on Christmas. Most states grant retailers the discretion to choose their operating hours on holidays.
What is the best way to find out the Christmas Eve hours for my local Total Wine?
The most reliable ways to find out your local Total Wine’s Christmas Eve hours are to check their website (using the store locator) or to call the store directly.
Do other major liquor store chains also close on Christmas?
Yes, many other major liquor store chains also typically close on Christmas Day, following a similar approach to prioritizing employee time off during the holiday.
Can I order delivery from Total Wine on Christmas Eve and expect it to arrive on Christmas Day?
Generally no. Delivery services usually experience high demand during the holiday season, and it is unlikely to get delivery on Christmas Day, especially from a closed store. Plan ahead and order well in advance.
Does Total Wine offer any Christmas-themed products or gift sets?
Yes, Total Wine & More typically offers a variety of Christmas-themed products and gift sets, including specially packaged wines, beers, and spirits. These are ideal to purchase in advance of Christmas Day.
What if I have a gift card for Total Wine? Can I use it online on Christmas Day?
Even if the physical store is closed, you might be able to use a Total Wine & More gift card to make online purchases on Christmas Day. However, you won’t be able to pick up the order until the store reopens. Check online to confirm that gift cards are accepted for online purchases.
Does Total Wine offer any employee incentives for working during the holiday season (excluding Christmas Day)?
Yes, Total Wine & More often offers various employee incentives for working during the busy holiday season (excluding Christmas Day, when they are closed). These might include holiday pay, bonuses, or extra break time. Specifics will vary by location and year.