Red Lobster Christmas Hours Guide (Updated 2025)

Planning a festive meal at Red Lobster this Christmas? Knowing their holiday hours can save you from unexpected closures or long waits. Whether you’re craving their famous cheddar bay biscuits or fresh seafood, it’s smart to check when they’re open during the holiday season.

Many restaurants adjust their hours around Christmas, and Red Lobster is no different. You’ll want to find out if they’re offering regular hours, limited service, or closing early to enjoy the festivities. This guide will help you plan your visit so you don’t miss out on your favorite dishes during the holidays.

Understanding Red Lobster Christmas Hours

Knowing Red Lobster’s Christmas hours helps you plan your holiday dining without surprises. Hours can differ based on day and location.

Typical Holiday Operating Schedule

Red Lobster usually adjusts hours during Christmas. Most restaurants open later or close earlier than usual, often between 11 AM and 8 PM. Some locations might close entirely on December 25th. Expect limited menu options and staffing during peak holiday times, impacting service speed.

Variations by Location

Operating hours vary widely by city and state. Urban Red Lobster restaurants may remain open longer to accommodate holiday traffic, while suburban or rural locations may close earlier or not open at all on Christmas. Check your specific location’s hours online or by phone before planning your visit.

How to Find Red Lobster Christmas Hours Near You

Finding accurate Christmas hours for Red Lobster locations is essential for planning your holiday meal. Use official and reliable sources to get the most current information.

Checking the Official Website

Visit Red Lobster’s official website and navigate to the “Locations” page. Enter your city, state, or ZIP code to find nearby restaurants. Each location’s page shows detailed hours, including holiday modifications. The site updates these hours regularly during the Christmas season to reflect any changes or early closures.

Using Google and Other Online Resources

Search “Red Lobster Christmas hours” followed by your location on Google. Google often displays updated hours from the restaurant’s official profile. Check Google Maps, Yelp, and TripAdvisor as well, since they aggregate user-reported and official data. Call the restaurant directly when possible to confirm hours, especially if you plan to visit on December 24th or 25th.

Tips for Visiting Red Lobster During Christmas

Plan your visit to Red Lobster carefully to enjoy a smooth holiday dining experience. Use these tips to avoid common challenges during Christmas.

Making Reservations in Advance

Make reservations early, especially for December 24 and 25, since many locations experience high demand. Book through Red Lobster’s official website or trusted third-party apps to secure your preferred time. Confirm your reservation a day before, as holiday hours can change last minute.

Expecting Holiday Crowds and Wait Times

Prepare for larger crowds and longer wait times during Christmas. Visit during off-peak hours, such as early afternoon or late evening, to reduce wait. If you arrive without a reservation, expect waits that exceed 30 minutes in busy locations. Calling ahead to verify wait times helps manage your schedule efficiently.

Alternatives If Red Lobster Is Closed on Christmas

Red Lobster may close or operate on limited hours during Christmas, but you still have options to enjoy seafood or a festive meal. Consider nearby seafood restaurants open on holidays or prepare a Red Lobster-inspired meal at home.

Nearby Seafood Restaurants Open on Holidays

Look for local seafood restaurants that remain open on Christmas Day. Chains like Joe’s Crab Shack, Bonefish Grill, or local family-owned seafood spots often keep holiday hours. Use online tools such as Google Maps or Yelp to filter seafood restaurants by “open now” status on Christmas. Call ahead to confirm holiday hours and avoid unexpected closures. Some restaurants also offer takeout or delivery, providing convenient options if dine-in is unavailable.

Preparing a Red Lobster-Inspired Meal at Home

Recreate Red Lobster’s popular dishes at home with easy recipes. Consider making classics like Cheddar Bay Biscuits, garlic shrimp scampi, or lobster tail. Ready-to-cook seafood like frozen lobster tails, shrimp, and crab legs can be purchased from grocery stores before the holiday. Online recipes from Red Lobster’s website or trusted culinary sites provide step-by-step guidance. Cooking at home offers flexibility on timing and menu customization, ensuring a festive seafood experience even if restaurants close.

Conclusion

Knowing Red Lobster’s Christmas hours helps you plan your holiday meal with ease and avoid any last-minute surprises. Checking official sources and calling ahead ensures you have the most accurate information for your chosen location.

Making reservations early and being prepared for holiday crowds will make your dining experience smoother and more enjoyable. And if Red Lobster is closed, you’ve got plenty of tasty alternatives and home-cooking options to keep your festive seafood cravings satisfied.

With a little planning, you can enjoy a delicious and stress-free holiday meal at Red Lobster or wherever you choose to celebrate.