You're standing in the kitchen, staring at an empty bag of cotton balls or realizing you forgot the streamers for tomorrow’s surprise party. It’s late. You need a fix that costs about a buck twenty-five. Naturally, the big question hits: what time does the dollar tree close? Honestly, there’s nothing worse than driving all the way there only to see those sliding glass doors locked tight and the lights dimmed. I’ve been there. We’ve all been there.
Most Dollar Tree locations follow a pretty standard rhythm, but "standard" is a loose term in the retail world of 2026. Usually, you’re looking at a 9:00 PM or 10:00 PM closing time on weekdays and Saturdays.
But wait. If you’re in a sleepy rural town or a high-traffic urban center, those rules go right out the window.
The Standard Schedule: Weekdays and Weekends
For the vast majority of shoppers in the United States, Dollar Tree keeps doors open until at least the evening news starts.
Monday through Saturday, the typical store hours are 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM.
Sundays are the wildcard. Many locations keep that 10:00 PM closing time, but a huge chunk of the fleet scales back. It’s very common to see Sunday hours shift to 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM.
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If you live in a place like Kansas City, for instance, you'll see a wild mix. The store on Quindaro Blvd might shut down at 8:00 PM, while the one at Tiffany Springs stays open until 10:00 PM. It basically depends on how much foot traffic the specific neighborhood gets after dark.
What Time Does the Dollar Tree Close on Holidays?
This is where things get kinda messy.
Dollar Tree is actually pretty consistent about staying open when other places (like banks or the post office) take a nap. They want those last-minute holiday shoppers. However, there is one day you absolutely cannot shop there: Christmas Day. Every single Dollar Tree shuts down on December 25th.
Here is the vibe for the rest of the 2026 holiday calendar:
- New Year’s Day: This is a toss-up. In previous years, they were open, but recently, some corporate shifts have led to stores closing on January 1st to give staff a breather.
- Easter Sunday: Usually open, but almost always with reduced hours (think 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM).
- Thanksgiving: Most stores stay open for at least part of the day. They know you need that extra gravy boat or a pack of napkins. Expect them to close early, around 4:00 PM or 6:00 PM.
- Christmas Eve: They typically close by 6:00 PM or 7:00 PM. If you're looking for tape at 8:00 PM on December 24th, you’re likely out of luck.
Why Do the Hours Keep Changing?
You might notice your local store changed its hours recently. It isn't just you.
Retailers are dealing with a lot right now—labor shortages, shifting consumer habits, and safety concerns. Some locations that used to stay open until midnight have pulled back to 9:00 PM because there just aren't enough people shopping at 11:00 PM to justify the electricity and payroll.
Also, mall-based stores are at the mercy of the mall’s schedule. If the mall closes at 8:00 PM, Dollar Tree is closing at 8:00 PM. Period.
Pro Tips for the Late-Night Run
Don't trust the sign on the door from three years ago. Use the official Dollar Tree store locator on their website. It is updated more frequently than the generic info you might find on a random map app.
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Better yet? Use the Dollar Tree app.
If you’re really in a pinch and it’s right on the edge of closing time, give them a quick call. The phone number is always listed in the search results. A thirty-second call can save you a twenty-minute wasted drive.
Most cashiers start the "closing rituals" about 15 minutes before the actual time. They’ll start pulling in the sidewalk displays and tidying the registers. If you show up at 9:58 PM, expect some side-eye.
What You Should Do Next
Before you grab your keys and head out, do these three things:
- Check the zip code: Pull up the store locator and type in your specific zip. Don't assume the store three miles away has the same hours as the one five miles away.
- Verify the day: If it’s Sunday or a federal holiday (like Labor Day or Memorial Day), expect a 9:00 PM close at the latest.
- Call ahead for balloons: If you’re going for helium balloons specifically, call to make sure their helium tank isn't empty. There is nothing sadder than a flat birthday balloon from a closed store.
Knowing the closing time is half the battle; getting there before they lock the doors is the real win.