Thanksgiving Store Hours: Which Retailers Are Open?

Nov 27, 2025 by Alex Johnson 52 views

Thanksgiving Day is a special time for family gatherings, delicious meals, and expressing gratitude. However, for some, it's also a day to get a head start on holiday shopping or to pick up last-minute items. Knowing which stores are open on Thanksgiving can be incredibly helpful. In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the retailers that typically open their doors on Thanksgiving, those that remain closed, and some tips for planning your Thanksgiving shopping.

Thanksgiving Shopping: A Changing Landscape

Over the past decade, the landscape of Thanksgiving shopping has shifted significantly. The trend of "Black Friday creep," where retailers opened earlier and earlier on Thanksgiving evening, reached its peak in the mid-2010s. However, in recent years, many major retailers have reversed course, choosing to close their doors on Thanksgiving to allow their employees to spend the holiday with their families. This change reflects a growing awareness of the importance of work-life balance and employee well-being.

Despite this shift, some stores still opt to open on Thanksgiving, often with limited hours. These stores typically offer special Thanksgiving Day deals and promotions to attract shoppers. Understanding which stores are open and their hours can help you plan your shopping strategy and avoid unnecessary trips.

It's important to emphasize that Thanksgiving store hours can vary widely and are subject to change each year. Therefore, it's always a good idea to check the specific hours of your local stores before heading out on Thanksgiving Day. You can usually find this information on the store's website, social media pages, or by calling the store directly.

Why Some Stores Open on Thanksgiving

The decision to open on Thanksgiving is often driven by competitive pressures and the desire to capture a share of holiday spending. Retailers that open on Thanksgiving may believe that they can attract customers who are eager to get a jump start on Black Friday deals. Additionally, some stores cater to customers who may need to purchase last-minute items for their Thanksgiving meal or celebrations.

However, the decision to open on Thanksgiving is not without its critics. Some argue that it commercializes a holiday that should be focused on family and gratitude. Others express concerns about the impact on retail employees who may be required to work on Thanksgiving, away from their families.

Why Many Stores Are Closed on Thanksgiving

The trend of stores closing on Thanksgiving has gained momentum in recent years, driven by several factors. Many retailers have recognized the importance of allowing their employees to spend the holiday with their loved ones. This decision can boost employee morale and create a more positive work environment.

Additionally, some retailers have found that closing on Thanksgiving does not necessarily hurt their overall holiday sales. Many shoppers are willing to wait until Black Friday to begin their shopping, and retailers can still capture these sales without opening on Thanksgiving. Closing on Thanksgiving can also generate positive publicity for a retailer, as it signals a commitment to employee well-being and work-life balance.

Retailers Typically Open on Thanksgiving

While the list of stores open on Thanksgiving has shrunk in recent years, some retailers still choose to open their doors on the holiday. Here are some of the types of stores that may be open, along with specific examples:

Drugstores and Pharmacies: These stores often remain open on Thanksgiving, as they provide essential services and products. CVS and Walgreens are two major drugstore chains that typically have some locations open on Thanksgiving, often with reduced hours. This can be incredibly convenient if you need to pick up a prescription, over-the-counter medication, or other health-related items.
Grocery Stores: A limited number of grocery stores may be open on Thanksgiving, often with reduced hours. These stores cater to customers who may need last-minute ingredients for their Thanksgiving meal. Regional grocery chains are more likely to be open than national chains. It's always best to check with your local grocery store to confirm their Thanksgiving hours. A quick trip to the grocery store might save the day if you realize you're missing a crucial ingredient!
Convenience Stores and Gas Stations: Convenience stores and gas stations typically remain open on Thanksgiving, as they provide essential services such as fuel, snacks, and beverages. 7-Eleven and Circle K are examples of convenience store chains that are usually open on Thanksgiving. These stores can be a lifesaver if you're traveling on Thanksgiving Day or need a quick snack or drink.

It is crucial to remember that even stores that typically open on Thanksgiving may have reduced hours or may choose to close in a particular year. Always verify the hours of your local stores before heading out.

Retailers Typically Closed on Thanksgiving

Many major retailers have made the decision to close their stores on Thanksgiving, allowing their employees to enjoy the holiday with their families. Here are some of the major categories of stores that are typically closed on Thanksgiving:

Department Stores: Most major department stores, such as Macy's, Kohl's, and JCPenney, are closed on Thanksgiving. This is a significant shift from the trend of Thanksgiving evening openings that was common in the past. These stores recognize the importance of allowing their employees to spend the holiday with their loved ones and have chosen to prioritize employee well-being.
Big Box Stores: Many big box stores, such as Walmart and Target, are closed on Thanksgiving. These stores were among the first to reverse the trend of Thanksgiving openings, and their decision has influenced many other retailers. Closing on Thanksgiving allows these stores to give their employees a much-deserved break and to focus on Black Friday sales.
Clothing Retailers: A vast majority of clothing retailers, including Gap, Old Navy, and American Eagle, are closed on Thanksgiving. These stores typically see a surge in shoppers on Black Friday, but they have chosen to remain closed on Thanksgiving to allow their employees to enjoy the holiday.
Home Improvement Stores: Home improvement giants like Home Depot and Lowe's are also closed on Thanksgiving. These stores often have significant Black Friday sales, but they prioritize giving their employees a day off to spend with family and friends.

This list is not exhaustive, but it provides a general overview of the types of stores that are typically closed on Thanksgiving. It's always best to check the specific hours of your local stores to confirm their Thanksgiving schedule.

Tips for Planning Your Thanksgiving Shopping

If you're planning to do some shopping on Thanksgiving, here are some tips to help you make the most of your experience:

Check Store Hours in Advance: This is the most important tip! Don't assume that a store is open just because it was open on Thanksgiving in the past. Check the store's website, social media pages, or call the store directly to confirm their Thanksgiving hours. This will save you a wasted trip and ensure that you can shop at the stores that are open.
Make a List: Before you head out, make a list of the items you need to purchase. This will help you stay focused and avoid impulse buys. A well-thought-out list can also help you prioritize your shopping and ensure that you get everything you need.
Plan Your Route: If you plan to visit multiple stores, map out your route in advance. This will help you save time and gas. Consider the locations of the stores and the traffic patterns in your area. Planning your route can make your Thanksgiving shopping trip more efficient and less stressful.
Be Prepared for Crowds: Even though fewer stores are open on Thanksgiving than in the past, you can still expect crowds at some locations. Be patient and courteous to other shoppers and store employees. Remember that everyone is trying to get their shopping done, and a little patience can go a long way.
Shop Online: Many retailers offer Thanksgiving Day deals online. This can be a convenient way to shop from the comfort of your home and avoid the crowds. Check the websites of your favorite stores to see if they have any online-only Thanksgiving Day deals. Online shopping can be a great alternative if you prefer to avoid the in-store crowds.
Be Mindful of Store Employees: Remember that store employees are working on a holiday. Be kind, patient, and respectful. A simple "thank you" can go a long way in making their day a little brighter. Recognizing the efforts of store employees is an important part of being a responsible and considerate shopper.

Alternatives to Thanksgiving Day Shopping

If you're not keen on shopping on Thanksgiving, there are plenty of other ways to spend the holiday. Consider these alternatives:

Spend Time with Family and Friends: Thanksgiving is a holiday best spent with loved ones. Focus on connecting with family and friends, enjoying a delicious meal, and expressing gratitude. These moments are often more valuable than any shopping deal.
Volunteer: Giving back to your community is a wonderful way to spend Thanksgiving. Many organizations need volunteers to help serve meals, pack food boxes, or provide other assistance. Volunteering can be a rewarding experience and a meaningful way to celebrate the holiday.
Relax and Recharge: Use Thanksgiving as an opportunity to relax and recharge. Read a book, watch a movie, or take a nap. Taking time for yourself can help you feel refreshed and ready for the holiday season ahead.

Conclusion

Navigating Thanksgiving store hours can be tricky, but with a little planning, you can make the most of your holiday shopping or choose to spend the day in other meaningful ways. Remember to check store hours in advance, make a list, and be prepared for crowds. More importantly, consider the true spirit of Thanksgiving and prioritize spending time with loved ones and expressing gratitude. Whether you choose to shop or not, make sure to have a happy and fulfilling Thanksgiving!

For further insights into holiday shopping trends and store hours, you can visit reputable sources like the National Retail Federation.