Hey neighbor,

It's here. Christmas Eve.

The day of last-minute runs to the store, wrapping paper flying everywhere, and sneaking bites of the food you're supposed to be saving for tomorrow.

Whether you woke up in full "I've got this" mode or you're still wondering where you put the tape — I've got your back with a quick rundown of what's open, where to grab coffee, and how to make tonight feel a little more magical.

Let's finish strong.

Mall of Georgia (Buford) 📍 3333 Buford Dr, Buford 🕘 Open 9am – 6pm Over 200 stores. One-stop shop for gifts, clothes, gift cards, and that thing you forgot.

Target & Walmart 🕘 Open until 6pm (most locations) Great for stocking stuffers, candy, wrapping paper, and the inevitable "we need more batteries" run.

Costco 🕘 Open 10am – 5pm Last chance for bulk snacks, gift baskets, or that giant teddy bear.

Home Depot & Lowe's 🕘 Closing by 5pm Need a tree stand, extension cord, or last-second stocking stuffer tool kit? Go now.

CVS & Walgreens 🕘 Most open until 9pm Grab gift cards, candy, greeting cards, or a "just because" gift.

Starbucks 🕘 Most locations open until 4–6pm (check your app) Holiday drinks are still flowing. Grab a Peppermint Mocha before they're gone.

Dunkin' 🕘 Hours vary by location (check the Dunkin' app) Fast, reliable, and easy. Perfect for a quick coffee stop between errands.

Pro tip: Order ahead on the app and skip the line.That's your Gwinnett roundup for the week. Now get out there and do something fun.

If your family is looking for a meaningful way to start the evening, this is it.

Outdoor Live Nativity — Snellville Community Church 📍 2428 Main Street East, Snellville 🕐 6pm – 8pm (tonight only!) 💵 FREE

Live animals — including a camel — bring the true story of Christmas to life right on the church lawn. Bring the kids, grab a photo, and take a moment to remember what this day is really all about.

🕯️ Candlelight services are also at 5pm and 11pm (with Holy Communion at 11pm).

Did you know Gwinnett is home to the second-largest production of The Nutcracker in the entire state of Georgia?

Every year, the Gwinnett Ballet Theatre puts on multiple performances at Gas South Theater in Duluth — drawing thousands of families from all over the region. If you've ever seen it, you know it's a true holiday treasure right in our backyard.

Maybe next year we catch it together. 🩰

I'm Gus — a Gwinnett County neighbor, husband, dad, and the guy behind Gwinnett Best. I'm also an entrepreneur and content creator who works alongside Nick Vujicic (world-renowned speaker and author) — helping him build podcasts and programs that inspire people around the globe.

But my favorite title? Just being part of this community, right here with you.

I want to hear from you!

Hit reply and tell me: What's one word that describes your Christmas this year?

Peaceful? Chaotic? Grateful? Exhausted? Magical?

Just one word. I'll read every reply — and might even share a few in a future email.

Merry Christmas Eve, neighbor.

I hope tonight is full of warmth, wonder, and maybe a little quiet before the beautiful chaos of tomorrow morning.

From my family to yours — we're grateful you're here.

— Gus, Your neighbor at Gwinnett Best