Running low on holiday cheer? Don't let an empty fridge ruin your festivities! As the holiday season kicks into high gear, both The Beer Store and the LCBO have announced their adjusted hours, and there are a few surprises you’ll want to know about. But here’s where it gets tricky: not all stores will be open when you might expect, and some closures could leave you scrambling for last-minute supplies. Let’s break it down so you can plan ahead without the stress.
The Beer Store Holiday Schedule:
The Beer Store is tweaking its hours for both product sales and empty container returns, so mark your calendar carefully. Here’s what you need to know:
- December 24 (Christmas Eve): All retail stores will close early at 6 PM. Perfect for those last-minute party preps, but don’t wait too long!
- December 25 (Christmas Day): All stores will be closed. Time to enjoy what you’ve stocked up on!
- December 26 (Boxing Day): Select stores will open, including the North Bay Cassells St. location. A lifesaver if you’re hosting post-Christmas gatherings.
- December 31 (New Year’s Eve): Another early closure at 6 PM. Stock up early to ring in the New Year right.
- January 1, 2026 (New Year’s Day): All stores will be closed. A day to recover—or celebrate—without the temptation of a quick beer run.
And this is the part most people miss: While most stores follow this schedule, some locations might have slight variations. Always double-check the official website (http://www.thebeerstore.ca/) for the most accurate information.
LCBO Holiday Schedule:
The LCBO is also adjusting its hours, but with a few twists that could catch you off guard:
- Closed Days: Both Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. No surprises there, but it’s worth noting.
- Early Closures (6 PM): Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve. Plan your shopping accordingly!
- Boxing Day: Some stores will open, but it’s a bit of a gamble. Use the store locator (https://www.lcbo.com/en/stores/) to find out if your local spot is one of them.
- Convenience Outlets: Here’s where it gets controversial. Some smaller outlets might stay open on major holidays, depending on local regulations. Could this be a game-changer for your celebrations, or does it cross the line into over-commercialization? Let’s discuss in the comments!
Final Thoughts:
The holiday season is all about planning, and knowing these schedules can save you from a last-minute panic. But here’s a thought-provoking question: With more people opting for smaller, intimate gatherings, should stores consider extending hours on traditionally quieter days? Or is it important to give employees a well-deserved break? Share your thoughts below—we’d love to hear how you’re navigating the holiday rush!
