Sabbath in Rexburg
Sunday Guide
Important: Most Businesses Are Closed
Rexburg observes the Sabbath seriously. Most restaurants and retail shops are closed on Sundays. Broulim's is closed, but Walmart (6am-11pm) and Albertsons (7am-11pm) are open.
Plan your shopping and errands ahead of time for a more restful Sunday!
What's Closed on Sundays
Grocery Stores
- Broulim's
- (Walmart & Albertsons ARE open)
Restaurants
- Nearly ALL restaurants in Rexburg
- Costa Vida
- Taco Bell
- Panda Express
- Local cafes and eateries
Retail & Shopping
- All clothing stores
- Dollar Tree
- Auto parts stores
- Most banks
- Hair salons
Services
- Campus offices
- Library (limited hours)
- Post office
- Laundromats (some)
- Car washes
What IS Open on Sundays
Walmart Supercenter
Open 6am-11pm • Pharmacy 12pm-5pm
1450 N 2nd E, Rexburg
Albertsons
Open 7am-11pm • Pharmacy 10am-4pm
490 N 2nd E, Rexburg
Madison Memorial Hospital
Emergency room is always open 24/7
450 E Main St, Rexburg
Maverick Gas Station
Usually 24/7 for gas and snacks
Main Street, Rexburg
Rexburg Idaho Temple Grounds
Open for walking, reflection, and photos
750 S 2nd W, Rexburg
Nature Park & Trails
Walking paths always accessible
Perfect for a peaceful Sabbath stroll
Pharmacies (Limited)
Some have Sunday hours - call ahead
For emergencies only
Idaho Falls Options
More businesses open 30 min south
For true emergencies only
Church Meetings & Wards
How Ward Assignments Work
At BYU-Idaho, you're assigned to a ward (congregation) based on where you live. This is different from home where you might choose your ward. Your apartment complex determines which ward you attend.
- Single Students: Attend YSA (Young Single Adult) wards organized by apartment complex
- Married Students: Attend married student wards or family wards depending on housing
- Check Your Assignment: Ask your apartment manager or use the Church's ward locator tool
Meeting Times
Sunday meetings are typically 2 hours and include Sacrament Meeting plus Sunday School or other classes.
- Times vary by ward (typically 9am, 11am, or 1pm)
- Check with your ward for specific schedule
- Some wards have 2-hour blocks, others have variations
What to Expect
- Wear your Sunday best (modest, respectful attire)
- Bring scriptures and a reverent attitude
- Arrive 10-15 minutes early to find a seat
- Ward members are welcoming and friendly
First Sunday Tips
Your first Sunday in a new ward can feel overwhelming. Don't worry! Introduce yourself to the bishop or a member of the bishopric. They'll help you get connected. Ward members love meeting new students and will likely invite you to dinner or activities.
Sabbath-Appropriate Activities
Spiritual Activities
- Attend church services in your ward
- Visit the temple grounds for reflection
- Personal scripture study
- Write in your journal
- Listen to General Conference talks
- Attend a fireside or devotional
Service & Connection
- Write letters to missionaries
- Call or video chat with family
- Visit with roommates and neighbors
- Serve others in your ward
- Minister to those you're assigned to
- Plan service projects for the week
Rest & Renewal
- Take a peaceful nap
- Enjoy a leisurely walk in nature
- Read uplifting books
- Listen to hymns or spiritual music
- Practice mindfulness and meditation
- Spend quality time with friends
Social Activities
- Host or attend Sunday dinner with friends
- Play board games or card games
- Have meaningful conversations
- Share a meal with your apartment
- Plan the upcoming week together
- Work on family history research
Sunday Meal Planning
Pro Tip: Plan Ahead!
While Walmart and Albertsons are open on Sundays, most restaurants are closed. Consider shopping on Saturday and prepping food ahead for a more restful Sabbath.
Easy Sunday Meal Ideas
- Slow Cooker Meals: Start a roast or soup Saturday night
- Sandwiches: Simple and no cooking required
- Leftovers: Make extra on Saturday
- Pasta: Quick to prepare with minimal effort
- Frozen Pizza: Always have a backup in the freezer
- Cereal & Fruit: Simple breakfast for Sunday morning
Sunday Dinner Traditions
Sunday dinner is a beloved tradition in LDS culture. Consider organizing with your roommates or apartment to share a meal together.
- Take turns cooking each week
- Potluck style - everyone brings a dish
- Invite someone new from your ward
- Keep it simple but meaningful
Shopping Checklist for Sunday
Make sure to buy these items on Saturday:
- Bread and tortillas
- Deli meat or protein
- Cheese and dairy
- Fresh fruit
- Snacks for the day
- Breakfast items
- Drinks and water
- Dessert (optional)
- Frozen backup meals
- Slow cooker ingredients
- Pasta and sauce
- Any prescription refills
For Non-LDS Students
If you're not LDS, Sundays in Rexburg might feel different from what you're used to. Here are some tips to help you adjust:
- Plan ahead: The biggest adjustment is that stores and restaurants are closed. Stock up on Saturday.
- Embrace the quiet: Use Sunday as a genuine day of rest, study, or self-care.
- Connect with others: Even if you don't attend LDS services, you can still join friends for Sunday dinner or activities.
- Idaho Falls options: If you need something open, Idaho Falls (30 min south) has more options, though still limited.
- Respect the culture: Even if it's not your tradition, respecting Sunday observance helps you connect with the community.