5 Places Open Christmas Day

Christmas Day. Everything is closed. Right?

Well, not exactly. There are a handful of shops that keep the lights on and prove to be a life saver for folks needing a pharmacy, trying to get a last-minute gift before Christmas guests arrive, or even just slip out for some down time and a cup of joe.

Here are five places open on Christmas Day:

1.) Starbucks: Many of the corner coffee shops will be serving customers, though some will have shortened hours. Stop in a Starbucks on Christmas Day, and there's a decidedly different atmosphere: more laid back, quiet even, as folks read newspapers, pore over their laptops or sit quietly to savor the day. The decision whether or not to stay open on is left up to each local store manager, so check your local Starbucks for hours of operation.

2.) CVS: Most CVS stores are open Christmas Day, but there is no guarantee that you will be able to fill a prescription. CVS is the spot to pick up a holiday card, pet food or other must-have item when just about everything else is closed. It's best to check with your local store to find out holiday hours.

3.) Walgreens: If you're not a CVS customer, chances are you get your prescriptions filled and over-the-counter medicine from Walgreens. But the pharmacy also has other items you might need on Christmas Day. Call ahead for hours. Chances are you won't be able to get prescriptions filled on Dec. 25. Check our Business Directory for a list of the Walgreens nearby.

4.) 7-Eleven: The convenience store becomes the ultra spot for convenience Christmas Day. Perhaps you're gassing up on the way to Grandma's house, you can also pick up some last-minute items, from Advil to Gatorade. Check the Business Directory for a list of 7-Eleven stores.

5.) Catch a Movie: Some folks make seeing a movie opening a Christmas tradition. Hollywood knows that and plans to release some blockbusters on Dec. 25, including Les Miserables. The movie musical already is wracking up award nominations.