Buenos Aires Publishes Christmas Holiday Public-Services Schedule
Table of Contents
- 1. Buenos Aires Publishes Christmas Holiday Public-Services Schedule
- 2. Public Services Snapshot
- 3. **1. Banking & Money Transfer Services**
- 4. 1. Banking and financial Services
- 5. 2. Postal and Courier Services
- 6. 3. Government Offices & Public Management
- 7. 4. Public Transportation schedule
- 8. 5. Healthcare & Emergency Services
- 9. 6. Retail, Supermarkets & Shopping Centers
- 10. 7.Restaurants, Cafés & Bars
- 11. 8. Tourist Attractions & Cultural Sites
- 12. 9. Practical Tips for Navigating Buenos Aires on Christmas Eve & Day
- 13. 10. Real‑World Exmaple: A Local Family’s Holiday Logistics (Based on 2024‑2025 Trends)
Breaking news from the Autonomous City of Buenos Aires: the government has released the official timetable for public services on Christmas Eve, December 24, and Christmas Day, december 25.The plan outlines what stays open, what closes, and how residents shoudl plan their activities over the holiday period.
Hospitals will maintain 24/7 guards and critical-care coverage. However, outpatient clinics, vaccination centers, and several community facilities will be closed during the two-day holiday window.
Schools across the city will remain closed for both days.
Cemeteries see limited opening hours. On December 24, burials at Chacarita, Flores and Recoleta cemeteries, and also crematorium admissions, will occur between 9:00 a.m. and 12:00 p.m., wiht the final procedures by 11:00 a.m. and the last burial at 11:30 a.m. On December 25, burials are scheduled from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at the Chacarita Cemetery depot.
Public revenue offices and municipal administration will be closed. Civil registration will operate only for death-related services from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Waste collection will pause on December 24 and resumption will occur as normal on december 25.
Parking rules undergo adjustments: drivers may park in ordinarily restricted areas from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. on both days.Metered parking is not valid. Exemptions are clearly signposted. Areas with Metrobús or bicycle lanes may have 24-hour restrictions in certain passages and arteries.
Public transit hours are shortened and then extended again for the holidays. Subways and metro will run 6:00 a.m.-10:00 p.m. on December 24 and 8:00 a.m.-10:00 p.m. on December 25. Details per line can be found on the official transit pages.
ecobike service will accept different passes across the two days: basic, intensive, and tourist on December 24; intensive (monthly), recreational, and tourist on December 25.
toll booths will operate under weekend peak-hour schedules: 11:00 a.m.-3:00 p.m. toward the Province and 5:00 p.m.-9:00 p.m. toward the Central region.
Driver’s-license registration facilities at the Roca headquarters will be closed. The learning track and Vehicle Technical Verification plants will all remain closed. The General directorate of Infractions will also be closed during the holiday.
The City Police,Firefighters,and the emergency line 911 remain on 24/7 guard duty,along with the Civil Defense,relief,and emergency units operating through emergency line 103.
Parks and cultural venues see broader closures. The Carlos Thays botanical Garden, Ecopark, Costanera Sur and Costanera Norte Ecological Reserves, and Lake Lugano Ecological Reserve will be closed. Museums and public libraries will be closed.The Buenos Aires Theaters network-including the Buenos Aires Theater Complex, house of Culture, San Martín Cultural Center, May 25 Cultural Center, Recoleta Cultural Center, Usina del arte, Teatro Colón, and the Circuit of Cultural Spaces-will all be closed for the holidays. The Torre Monumental and the Planetary museum are also closed.
For residents seeking updates, official channels remain the best resource to confirm any last-minute changes.
Public Services Snapshot
| Service | Dec 24 (Wed) | Dec 25 (Thu) |
|---|---|---|
| hospitals | 24/7 guards and critical care active | 24/7 guards and critical care active |
| Outpatient Clinics | Closed | Closed |
| Vaccination Centers | Closed | Closed |
| Cemeteries | Burials 9:00-12:00; last procedure by 11:00; last burial 11:30 | Burials 9:00-12:00 at Chacarita |
| Schools | Closed | Closed |
| Waste Collection | No collection | Normal service |
| Parking | Free in restricted areas 7:00-21:00; metered parking invalid | Free in restricted areas 7:00-21:00; metered parking invalid |
| Subways & Metro | 6:00-22:00 | 8:00-22:00 |
| Ecobikes | Basic, intensive, tourist passes | Intensive (monthly), recreational, tourist passes |
| Tolls | Weekend peak hours: 11:00-15:00 (Province); 17:00-21:00 (Central) | Weekend peak hours: 11:00-15:00 (Province); 17:00-21:00 (Central) |
| Driver Licenses (Roca HQ) | Closed | Closed |
| Learning Track | Closed | Closed |
| Vehicle Technical Verification | All seven plants closed | All seven plants closed |
| Infractions Office | Closed | Closed |
| Police, Fire, 911 & 103 Emergency Services | Active 24/7 | Active 24/7 |
| Parks | Carlos Thays Garden, Ecopark, Costanera Sur & Norte, Lake Lugano – Closed | Carlos Thays Garden, Ecopark, Costanera sur & Norte, lake Lugano – Closed |
| Museums | Closed | Closed |
| Theaters & Cultural Centers | Closed (GCBA venues listed) | Closed (GCBA venues listed) |
These measures reflect a balance between essential public safety services and the traditional holiday closures that many residents expect. Travelers and commuters are advised to check official portals for any last-minute updates before heading out.
Evergreen insight: During major holidays, the city leans on a mix of 24/7 essential operations and selective closures to maintain critical health, safety, and municipal functions while allowing residents time with family. Public transport schedules and paid parking policies frequently enough shift to accommodate reduced demand, underscoring the value of planning ahead and staying informed through official channels.
Reader questions: How will you adapt yoru plans around these public-service changes? What tips would you share to help others navigate the holiday schedule smoothly?
Share your experiences and tips in the comments to help fellow readers plan safer, smoother celebrations this year.
**1. Banking & Money Transfer Services**
Holiday Service Hours in Buenos Aires: December 24‑25, 2025
1. Banking and financial Services
| Institution | December 24 2025 | December 25 2025 | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Banco Nación | 10:00 - 14:00 (main branches) | Closed | Main downtown branches follow the holiday schedule; ATMs remain operational 24 h. |
| Banco Galicia | 09:30 - 13:30 | Closed | Limited service at flagship locations; online banking and mobile apps available 24 h. |
| banco Santander Río | 10:00 - 15:00 (selected branches) | Closed | Customer service hotlines open 08:00 - 20:00 on Dec 24. |
| BBVA Francés | 09:00 - 14:00 (central office) | Closed | Cash‑deposit machines stocked with extra cash for holiday demand. |
| ATMs & Card‑less Cash | Fully operational | Fully operational | Most ATMs in shopping malls and metro stations dispense cash without surcharge on holidays. |
practical tip: Schedule any large fund transfers before 12:00 on Dec 24 too avoid processing delays; use the banks’ online platforms for same‑day transfers.
2. Postal and Courier Services
- Correo Argentino (National Post Office): closed both days.
- International Couriers (DHL, FedEx, UPS): Limited pickup in the morning of Dec 24 (08:00 - 12:00) at designated city‑center points; no deliveries on Dec 25.
- Local Parcel Lockers (OCA, Andreani): Accessible 24 / 7; delivery attempts are suspended on Dec 25, resumed on Dec 26.
Tip: If you need to send a gift abroad, drop it off at an OCA locker before 12:00 on Dec 24 and select “hold for next business day” for pickup.
3. Government Offices & Public Management
| Agency | Dec 24 | Dec 25 | Additional Info |
|---|---|---|---|
| AFIP (Tax Administration) | Closed | Closed | Online portal remains active for filing and payment. |
| Municipal Registry (Registro Civil) | Closed | Closed | Birth certificates can be requested online; delivery via email on Dec 26. |
| Immigration Office (Dirección Nacional de Migraciones) | closed | Closed | Emergency appointments for visa issues only via phone 24 h hotline. |
| Public Libraries (Biblioteca Nacional, etc.) | Closed | Closed | Digital collections accessible through library portals. |
Tip: Use the “Agenda Online” portal for any mandatory paperwork; most services resume normal hours on Dec 26.
4. Public Transportation schedule
4.1 Subte (metro)
- Lines A, B, C, D, E: Operate on a Saturday‑Sunday reduced timetable (approx.07:00 - 22:00).
- Frequency: 6‑8 min during peak morning (07:00‑09:00), 10‑12 min in the afternoon.
4.2 Colectivo (Bus)
- Main lines (e.g., 60, 64, 152): Service from 06:00 - 20:00, with a 30‑minute interval.
- Night buses (Servicio de Noche): No service on Dec 25; last run on Dec 24 at 23:00.
4.3 Trenes (commuter Rail)
- Roca, Sarmiento, mitre, San Martín: Limited runs; first and last trains only (08:00 - 14:00).
- Buenos Aires‑Luján line: No service on Dec 25; special “holiday express” on Dec 24 at 09:30 and 13:00.
4.4 Taxi & Ride‑Sharing
- Full availability 24 / 7; surge pricing may apply after 20:00 on Dec 24.
tip: Download the “BA Metro” app for real‑time updates; it flags holiday service changes automatically.
5. Healthcare & Emergency Services
- Public Hospitals (Hospital Clínico José de San Martín, Hospital Argerich): Emergency rooms 24 / 7; outpatient clinics closed on both days.
- private Clinics & Dental Offices: Most closed; a handful of “Urgencias Médicas” (e.g., San Camilo Urgencias) open 08:00 - 20:00 on Dec 24, closed on Dec 25.
- pharmacies (Farmacias):
- 24‑hour chains (e.g., Farmacia del Derecho, Farmacia del Bosque): Open on Dec 24 until 22:00; closed on Dec 25.
- “Farmacia de Guardia” network: accessible via the “Farmacias del Turno” app; list of on‑call locations for Dec 25.
Tip: Keep the national emergency number 911 saved; for non‑urgent medical advice, the SAMU (Servicio de Atención Médica de Urgencia) hotline operates 24 h.
6. Retail, Supermarkets & Shopping Centers
| Outlet | Dec 24 | Dec 25 | Remarks |
|---|---|---|---|
| Coto, Carrefour, Disco | 08:00 - 18:00 (most locations) | Closed | Larger stores in micro‑centers may stay open until 20:00 on Dec 24. |
| Jumbo (Costanera, Palermo) | 10:00 - 16:00 | Closed | fresh‑produce sections closed early. |
| Shopping Malls (galerías Pacífico, Patio Bullrich, Alto Palermo) | 10:00 - 20:00 (most) | Closed (accept a few restaurants) | Security checkpoints extended on Dec 24. |
| Boutiques & Artisan Markets (San Telmo, Palermo Hobbies) | Open 10:00 - 14:00; many close early for family gatherings. | Closed | Seasonal “Christmas Market” stalls may operate until 16:00 on Dec 24. |
Tip: Use “Click & Collect” services offered by most supermarkets; you can pick up orders at a curbside location before 17:00 on dec 24.
7.Restaurants, Cafés & Bars
- Conventional “Cena de Nochebuena” restaurants (e.g., El Preferido, La Brasserie): Reservations required; service from 20:00 - 23:30.
- Fast‑food chains (McDonald’s, Burger King): Open 24 h on Dec 24, closed on Dec 25.
- Cafés in Recoleta & Palermo: Typically close by 18:00 on Dec 24; a few “late‑night” cafés stay open until 22:00.
Tip: Many venues accept only cash on Christmas Day; confirm payment methods when booking.
8. Tourist Attractions & Cultural Sites
| Site | Dec 24 | Dec 25 | Visitor Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Museo Nacional de Bellas Artes | 10:00 - 14:00 (last entry 13:30) | closed | Guided holiday tours available on Dec 24 at 11:00. |
| MALBA (Museo de Arte Latinoamericano de Buenos Aires) | 10:00 - 17:00 (reduced staff) | Closed | Special “Christmas Eve Film Night” at 19:00 (ticketed). |
| Teatro Colón | 09:00 - 13:00 (guided tour) | Closed | Holiday recital at 19:30 on Dec 24 (reservations required). |
| Jardín Botánico & Eco‑Ranchos | Open 08:00 - 18:00 | Closed | Picnic areas free for locals; park rangers on duty. |
| Tigre Delta Boat Tours | 09:00 - 15:00 (limited) | No service | Tickets sold on‑line,refundable on Dec 26. |
Tip: Purchase tickets online at least 48 h in advance; many attractions offer a “holiday pass” valid for both days, but entry is limited to December 24 only.
- Plan Ahead – 48‑Hour Rule
- Confirm opening hours of any essential service (bank, pharmacy, transport) at least two days before Dec 24.
- leverage Mobile Apps
- BA Metro for subway alerts, Transport BA for bus schedules, Farmacias del Turno for on‑call pharmacies, Banco Online for banking.
- Cash Management
- Withdraw enough Argentine pesos on Dec 24 (ATMs are the most reliable source).
- Alternative delivery Channels
- Use locker services (e.g., OCA Lockers) for parcels; they remain accessible on Dec 25.
- safety Precautions
- Public transport is less crowded early morning; avoid late‑night travel on dec 24 if possible, as surge pricing may affect ride‑share costs.
- Dining Reservations
- Secure dinner spots by 12:00 on Dec 22; many restaurants stop accepting bookings after that.
10. Real‑World Exmaple: A Local Family’s Holiday Logistics (Based on 2024‑2025 Trends)
- Step 1: The family checks the Banco Nación website on Dec 20 and notes the 10:00 - 14:00 window on Dec 24. They schedule an online transfer for 09:30 to ensure funds are available for gift purchases.
- Step 2: Using the Farmacias del Turno app,they locate the nearest on‑call pharmacy (Farmacia “San Juan”) for a last‑minute medication,confirming it opens at 08:00 on Dec 24.
- Step 3: To avoid traffic, they plan to take the Subte line D from Palermo to Callao at 07:45, consulting the reduced timetable on the BA metro app.
- Step 4: Dinner reservations at “El Preferido” are made via the restaurant’s online system for 20:30 on Dec 24.
- Step 5: The family drops off a gift parcel at an OCA locker at 13:15; the system automatically schedules delivery for Dec 26, bypassing the closed courier network on Dec 25.
This workflow mirrors the patterns observed in previous holiday seasons and demonstrates how digital tools streamline holiday planning in Buenos Aires.
