Will any MS liquor stores be open on Christmas Day? What to know

Mississippians may be full of Christmas spirit, but on Dec. 25 bottled spirits are off the shelves, as a state law shuts down liquor stores.

Mississippi is one of the few U.S. states that’s blue laws don’t allow for the sale of alcohol on Sundays or Christmas Day. So, if you’re looking to raise a glass on Christmas, you may need to buy your booze ahead.

Here’s what to know about buying alcohol in the Magnolia State over the Christmas holiday.

Can you buy liquor in MS on Christmas?

There are widely varied alcohol laws in counties across the state, but one thing that’s the same is that all package stores must close on Christmas Day, according to state law.

But that doesn’t make buying alcohol illegal on Christmas Day. Here’s what is legal:

• Buying an alcoholic drink at dinner on Christmas Day
• Buying beer and light wine under 5% at a grocery store

What are the penalties for selling alcohol on Christmas Day?

The state’s broader policy for selling alcohol at an illegal time applies to Christmas Day. These some potential consequences:

• Suspension or revocation of alcohol permits for businesses
• Fines and imprisonment for repeat offenders

This story was originally published December 24, 2025 at 5:00 AM.

Natalie Demaree

mcclatchy-newsroom

479-616-0125

Natalie Demaree is a service journalism reporter covering Mississippi for McClatchy Media. She holds a master’s in journalism from Columbia Journalism School and a bachelor’s in journalism and political science with a specialization in African and African American Studies from the University of Arkansas.