Let’s start with the places that keep your family fed. Grocery stores are the MVP of Easter Sunday. Most major chains, like Kroger, Safeway, or Publix, will be open, but almost always with reduced hours. Expect to see signs saying “Closed by 6 PM,” so treat it like a sprint, not a marathon.
If you need just a few things for that last-minute dessert, convenience stores (like 7-Eleven or Wawa) are your best bet. They’re often open 24 hours, even on holidays. I once snagged a bag of jelly beans and a chocolate bunny at 10 AM from a gas station, feeling like I’d won the lottery.
What About the Big Boxes and Drugstores?
Here’s where it gets fun. Stores like Walmart and Target are usually open, but check your local store—their hours can vary wildly depending on the state or city. A friend in Ohio texted me once, “Target is open, but they’re out of Cadbury Mini Eggs. It’s chaos.” So, manage your expectations.
Similarly, CVS, Walgreens, and Rite Aid are almost always open. They’re like the Swiss Army knife of holidays—you can grab a cold drink, a card for Aunt Carol, and even a last-minute toy for the kid who dropped their basket. Just don’t expect a full pharmacy service; it’s usually just the front-end retail.
