The Christmas season is here, bringing with it twinkling lights, festive cheer, and the age-old debate of “Merry Christmas” versus “Happy Holidays.” While many retailers opt for a neutral greeting to please all, there are those that proudly embrace the true essence of Christmas. These stores stand out not only for their decorations and holiday displays but also for their unwavering commitment to celebrating the season with joy, tradition, and faith. Below are 10 retail stores that embrace the true Christmas spirit—places where the season isn’t just a holiday, but a full celebration of Christmas.
Belk: Proud to Keep Christmas Cheer Alive
When it comes to celebrating Christmas, Belk is one of the most outspoken retailers about maintaining the holiday’s true spirit. With stores adorned in Christmas-themed decorations and employees wishing shoppers a heartfelt “Merry Christmas,” Belk truly captures the magic of the season. Unlike many other retailers that opt for more neutral terms like “Happy Holidays,” Belk proudly stays true to the traditional “Merry Christmas” greeting, making it a festive shopping haven for those who love Christmas.
Whether you’re browsing for gifts or enjoying the cheerful atmosphere, Belk offers an experience that’s drenched in Christmas cheer, making it a perfect stop for anyone looking to soak in the holiday spirit.
Hobby Lobby: Where Christmas and Christian Values Meet
Hobby Lobby is a standout store that proudly combines Christian values with holiday cheer. Known for its commitment to the Christian faith, this retailer doesn’t just sell Christmas decorations—it celebrates the season with fervor. Hobby Lobby stores are decked out with nativity scenes, Christian music playing softly in the background, and every corner filled with holiday spirit.
Hobby Lobby goes beyond just the physical décor—it also closes on Sundays, allowing employees to spend time with their families, a practice that aligns with the company’s strong Christian beliefs. If you’re looking for a store that truly embodies the Christmas spirit, Hobby Lobby is a place where both faith and festivity come together.
Home Depot: Where “Christmas” Is Front and Center
Home Depot might be best known for home improvement, but when the holidays roll around, it’s also a Christmas wonderland. Unlike many retailers that prefer to use neutral phrases like “Season’s Greetings,” Home Depot proudly embraces the term “Christmas” and integrates it into its marketing and store displays. From Christmas trees and lights to holiday décor for every corner of your home, Home Depot offers a variety of products to help you create a festive atmosphere.
Whether you’re shopping for outdoor Christmas lights or indoor decorations, Home Depot is a great place to find everything you need to make your home shine this season.
Nordstrom: Celebrating Christmas with Elegance and Tradition
Nordstrom takes a slightly different approach to the Christmas season, balancing respect for both Thanksgiving and Christmas. Rather than rushing to decorate before Thanksgiving, Nordstrom waits until after the holiday to bring in the Christmas cheer. Known for its upscale décor and high-quality products, the store creates an elegant atmosphere that elevates the holiday season.
What makes Nordstrom unique is its commitment to creating a festive yet classy environment, where customers can shop for the perfect gifts in an atmosphere that feels both celebratory and sophisticated. It’s a true destination for those looking to embrace Christmas with a sense of tradition and grace.
Walmart: An American Giant Spreading Festive Cheer
As one of the largest retailers in the country, Walmart has a significant role in spreading Christmas cheer across America. With its wide range of holiday-themed products, including décor, toys, and Christmas gifts, Walmart ensures that shoppers can easily find everything they need for the holiday season. The store proudly promotes Christmas across its advertising and in-store displays, welcoming customers with festive greetings and an abundance of Christmas merchandise.
Walmart has earned a 5-Star rating from the American Family Association (AFA) for its open celebration of the Christmas season, making it one of the most Christmas-friendly retailers nationwide.
Macy’s: A Christmas Classic with the Largest Parade
Macy’s is perhaps most famous for its Thanksgiving Day Parade, which signals the official start of the holiday season. However, Macy’s doesn’t stop there—it embraces the Christmas season with enthusiasm, transforming its iconic New York storefront into a holiday masterpiece. From lavish window displays to festive music, Macy’s offers a Christmas experience that inspires awe.
The store’s use of the term “Merry Christmas” is prominently featured throughout its marketing and in-store experience, adding a nostalgic touch to the holiday shopping experience. For those looking to be transported into a Christmas wonderland, Macy’s is a destination you can’t miss.
JCPenney: Keeping Christmas in the Spotlight
Despite some challenges in recent years, JCPenney has remained steadfast in its commitment to celebrating Christmas. Recognized by the AFA with a “Nice” rating, JCPenney proudly celebrates Christmas both in-store and online. Whether you’re shopping for holiday gifts or looking for Christmas decorations, JCPenney ensures that the festive season is always front and center.
This retailer’s dedication to honoring traditional Christmas values resonates with shoppers looking for a warm and welcoming place to enjoy the season.
Lowe’s: Bringing Cheer to Every Corner
When it comes to embracing Christmas spirit, Lowe’s goes all out. Known for transforming its stores and website with holiday-themed displays, Lowe’s is a go-to destination for all things Christmas. From wreaths and garlands to Christmas trees and lights, Lowe’s provides everything needed to decorate your home.
Their staff members greet customers with “Merry Christmas” wishes, adding to the overall festive atmosphere that fills the store. For those who want to bring the holiday spirit into every corner of their home, Lowe’s is a must-visit retailer.
Bass Pro Shops: Outdoor Spirit Meets Christmas Spirit
For those who love the outdoors, Bass Pro Shops offers a unique Christmas shopping experience that combines the holiday spirit with outdoor adventure. With its holiday-themed décor and festive displays, Bass Pro Shops creates a one-of-a-kind environment where Christmas meets nature. Whether you’re shopping for holiday gifts or outdoor gear, this retailer captures the essence of a traditional Christmas with a twist.
Bass Pro Shops is a destination for anyone who wants to enjoy the festive season while staying true to their love for the outdoors.
Toys ‘R Us: Celebrating Christmas for the Young and Young-at-Heart
Although Toys ‘R Us is no longer operating in the U.S., it continues to bring the Christmas spirit to Canada with its famous Christmas Catalog and holiday-themed toy displays. For families with children, Toys ‘R Us is a magical place to shop, offering a wide range of toys that bring the joy of Christmas to life.
The store’s focus on Christmas makes it a top destination for those looking to create lasting memories with their little ones.
Conclusion: Embrace the True Christmas Spirit
This holiday season, let’s support these retailers that aren’t afraid to celebrate Christmas with joy and tradition. Whether you’re shopping for decorations, gifts, or simply enjoying the festive atmosphere, these stores go the extra mile to embrace the true Christmas spirit. By shopping at places like Hobby Lobby, Macy’s, and Walmart, you’re not just buying products—you’re celebrating the magic of Christmas in all its glory. So, why not spread some cheer and say “Merry Christmas” this season?