Most Asda superstores in 2026 will operate from 6:00 AM to 7:00 PM on Christmas Eve, remain closed on Christmas Day, and reopen on Boxing Day with reduced hours from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. While Asda typically resumes normal 24-hour service (where applicable) between December 27 and December 30, individual store times may vary by location, particularly for smaller Asda Express branches and stores in Scotland. For the most accurate, real-time information, shoppers are encouraged to use the official Asda Store Locator tool, which updates with specific festive holiday hours approximately two weeks before the Christmas period begins.
Christmas Eve Opening Hours 2026
Christmas Eve is traditionally the busiest shopping day of the year at Asda, requiring an early start for those looking to avoid the midday rush.
Morning and Evening Times
On Thursday, December 24, 2026, the majority of Asda superstores across the UK will open their doors at 6:00 AM. This early opening is designed to accommodate the surge of last-minute fresh produce buyers. Most stores will begin their closing procedures at 7:00 PM, allowing staff to return home for the holiday.
Asda Express Variations
Smaller Asda Express convenience stores may stay open later than the large superstores, often until 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM. However, stock levels at these locations are typically limited to essentials like milk, bread, and last-minute snacks, so it is not recommended for full “big shop” trolley runs.
Christmas Day and Boxing Day 2026
The core of the festive break sees Asda prioritizing staff wellbeing with a full day of closure followed by a gradual reopening.
Christmas Day Closure
As has been the tradition for decades, all Asda stores will be closed on Friday, December 25, 2026. This includes all superstores, Asda Living, and Asda Express locations. While the stores are closed, Asda’s automated “Pay at the Pump” petrol services usually remain available for emergency fuel needs, provided you pay by card.
Boxing Day Reduced Hours
On Saturday, December 26, 2026, most Asda stores will reopen at 9:00 AM and close by 6:00 PM. These reduced “Sunday-style” hours are common across the retail sector on Boxing Day. In Scotland, stores often open slightly earlier, around 8:00 AM, due to different trading laws, though this varies by local council.
New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day
The transition into 2027 brings another set of adjusted hours to accommodate New Year celebrations and recovery.
New Year’s Eve (Dec 31, 2026)
Asda stores will generally open at 7:00 AM and close their doors at 7:00 PM on New Year’s Eve. This provides ample time for shoppers to pick up party food, prosecco, and fireworks before the evening festivities begin.
New Year’s Day (Jan 1, 2027)
On New Year’s Day, most stores will operate between 10:00 AM and 6:00 PM. This later start is intended for those needing “recovery” essentials or starting their New Year’s health resolutions early. Note that some smaller Express stores may remain closed or operate even further reduced hours on this day.
Christmas Delivery and Click & Collect
Securing a delivery slot at Asda during the Christmas week is a competitive endeavor that requires forward planning.
Booking Your Slot
For 2026, Asda Delivery Pass holders are expected to get priority access to Christmas slots starting in mid-October. General customers will likely be able to book their slots one week later. To ensure you don’t miss out, it is highly recommended to book a slot as soon as they go live and “check out” with just one item to secure the time, then add the rest of your shopping later.
Click & Collect Deadlines
Asda’s Click & Collect service is a fantastic alternative if delivery slots are full. In 2026, the final collection times on Christmas Eve are usually staggered between 1:00 PM and 5:00 PM. It is vital to arrive within your designated window, as late collections may not be processed once the store begins its Christmas Eve shutdown.
Practical Information and Planning
Navigating the crowds at Asda during December requires a bit of tactical knowledge.
Tips for a Stress-Free Shop
Shop Mid-Week: Tuesday and Wednesday (Dec 22-23) are typically less crowded than the final 24 hours.
Use Scan & Go: Utilizing the Asda Scan & Go handsets or the mobile app can save you significant time at the checkout, allowing you to bypass long queues.
The “Golden Hour”: Shopping between 8:00 PM and 10:00 PM in the week leading up to Christmas Eve is often the quietest time to visit large superstores.
FAQs
Is Asda open 24 hours during the week before Christmas?
While many Asda superstores are normally 24-hour, they often revert to standard hours (e.g., 6:00 AM – midnight) during the Christmas week to allow for deep-cleaning and restocking. Always check the store locator for your specific branch’s status.
When does Asda release Christmas delivery slots for 2026?
Historically, delivery pass holders can book from the third week of October, with general release following 7 days later.
Can I get a delivery on Christmas Day?
No, Asda does not offer any home delivery or Click & Collect services on Christmas Day.
Are Asda Express stores open on Christmas Day?
No, all Asda formats, including Express and Petrol Forecourt shops, are closed on December 25th.
What time does Asda close on New Year’s Eve?
Most stores will close at 7:00 PM on December 31, 2026, to allow staff to celebrate the New Year.
Is George at Asda open for returns on Boxing Day?
Yes, if the main store is open, the George department and the Customer Service desk will typically be available, though they may be very busy with festive returns.
What are the opening times for Asda in Scotland during Christmas?
Scottish stores often have slightly different hours due to different public holiday traditions, sometimes opening earlier on Boxing Day (e.g., 8:00 AM) and staying open later on New Year’s Day.
Can I use “Scan & Go” on Christmas Eve?
Yes, Scan & Go is fully operational on Christmas Eve and is highly recommended to avoid the massive trolley queues at the main checkouts.
Does Asda sell out of turkeys on Christmas Eve?
While Asda stocks a high volume of fresh turkeys, they can sell out by midday on Christmas Eve. It is always safer to pre-order through the “Food To Order” service or buy a frozen bird earlier in December.
Are the pharmacies inside Asda open over Christmas?
The in-store pharmacies have their own specific hours, often closing earlier than the main store. On Boxing Day, they typically operate from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
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