The Definitive List Of 40+ Stores, Restaurants, And Services Open On Thanksgiving Day 2025

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Thanksgiving Day, November 27, 2025, marks a significant shift in retail and service hours across the United States, with many major chains prioritizing a break for their employees. If you’ve realized you’re missing a crucial ingredient for your stuffing, need a last-minute bottle of wine, or are simply looking to dine out, knowing which businesses remain operational is essential for a stress-free holiday.

This comprehensive guide provides the most up-to-date and confirmed list of major retailers, grocery stores, quick-service restaurants, and essential services that are expected to be open on Thanksgiving Day 2025. Be aware that nearly all businesses open on this holiday will be operating under significantly reduced holiday hours, so checking your local store’s specific schedule before heading out is a non-negotiable step.

The Essential List: Stores Open for Last-Minute Shopping

While Black Friday sales often start the day after, a growing number of major retailers have committed to remaining closed on Thanksgiving Day to give their staff time off. However, specific types of stores—primarily those focused on groceries, convenience, and discounted goods—will still be welcoming customers for those critical last-minute needs.

Grocery Stores and Markets with Reduced Holiday Hours

For those inevitable forgotten items—cranberry sauce, extra butter, or a bag of ice—several national and regional grocery chains will be open, though typically with limited hours, often closing as early as 3:00 PM or 5:00 PM.

  • Kroger: Most locations will be open, but expect a significantly reduced schedule, often closing mid-afternoon (e.g., 7:00 AM to 3:00 PM).
  • Albertsons & Safeway: Many stores under the Albertsons Companies umbrella are expected to be open, with typical hours ranging from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
  • Food Lion: This chain will be open, but most stores will close early, around 3:00 PM.
  • Whole Foods Market: Many Whole Foods locations will be open for a portion of the day, making them a reliable option for specialty items.
  • Sprouts Farmers Market: Sprouts is another health-focused market that typically remains open with limited hours.
  • ACME Markets: Most ACME locations plan to be open, often from 7:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
  • Regional Chains: Look for stores like Harris Teeter, Piggly Wiggly, Stop and Shop, Central Market, H-E-B, and Randalls, which often maintain reduced schedules on the holiday.

Retail and Convenience Stores Open

The majority of large-format retailers like Walmart, Target, and Costco will be closed, continuing a trend established in recent years to give employees the holiday off.

  • Convenience Stores (24/7): Many convenience store chains are the most reliable option, with most remaining open, often 24 hours as usual. This includes 7-Eleven, Circle K, Wawa, Sheetz, and QuikTrip.
  • Dollar General: This discount retailer is expected to be open in most states, but checking local store hours is vital.
  • Big Lots: Stores are typically open on Thanksgiving, often from 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM, offering a mix of home goods and last-minute necessities.
  • Bass Pro Shops: A reliable spot for outdoor enthusiasts, these stores are expected to be open, generally from 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

Your Guide to Restaurants Open on Thanksgiving Day 2025

Whether you're traveling, opting out of cooking a massive feast, or simply craving a non-traditional meal, a surprising number of casual dining and fast-food restaurants remain open on Thanksgiving. Many offer special holiday menus, buffets, or pre-cooked turkey dinner options, but reservations are often required for sit-down dining.

Casual and Family Dining Options

These establishments are often the go-to for a traditional or semi-traditional Thanksgiving meal away from home. Call ahead to confirm if they are offering a special holiday menu or their regular menu.

  • Bob Evans: Known for its homestyle meals, Bob Evans is a popular choice for Thanksgiving dinner.
  • Boston Market: Famous for its rotisserie chicken, Boston Market often offers heat-and-serve Thanksgiving meals and in-store dining.
  • Applebee's: Many Applebee's locations will be open, though hours and menu availability can vary significantly.
  • Denny's: A classic 24-hour diner, Denny's is a staple for holiday dining and will be open.
  • BRIO Tuscan Grille: This chain typically offers a special three-course Thanksgiving menu.
  • The Capital Grille: For a more upscale experience, locations like The Capital Grille often host Thanksgiving dinner.

Fast Food and Quick Service

For a quick bite or a non-turkey fix, numerous fast-food chains keep their doors open. These are especially useful for travelers on the road.

  • Burger King: Many franchise locations will be operating, though hours may be limited.
  • Arby's: Expect many Arby's to be open, offering a quick and easy meal.
  • Dunkin' & Einstein Bros. Bagels: Your morning coffee and bagel needs should be covered, as many locations for these chains will be open.
  • Domino's: Pizza delivery is often available, though staffing may affect delivery times.
  • Baskin-Robbins: Perfect for a post-dinner dessert, many Baskin-Robbins locations will be open.

Essential Services and Travel: What Stays Operational

Beyond food and retail, several critical services remain open or operate with minimal disruption to accommodate the high volume of holiday travel and essential needs.

Pharmacy and Healthcare Services

Access to medication and basic health supplies is a top priority, and most major pharmacies ensure they remain available.

  • CVS: Most standalone CVS stores will be open, with many operating on a reduced schedule (e.g., 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM). The internal pharmacy counter, however, may have shorter pharmacy hours than the retail front.
  • Walgreens: Many 24-hour Walgreens locations will remain open, particularly for essential pharmacy services. Non-24-hour stores may be closed or have significantly limited hours.
  • Rite Aid: Hours will vary by location, so use their store locator for specific details.

Thanksgiving Holiday Travel and Transportation

Thanksgiving is one of the busiest travel periods of the year, and all major transportation hubs and services remain fully operational to handle the surge.

  • Airports: Major airports like Denver International Airport (DEN) are preparing for a massive influx of travelers, with the FAA expecting one of the busiest Thanksgiving travel periods in years. All airport services, including security and concessions, will be open.
  • Amtrak: America's Railroad anticipates record-breaking 2025 Thanksgiving travel, with all trains running on their holiday schedules.
  • Gas Stations and Rest Stops: Nearly all gas stations and turnpike rest areas will be fully operational to support road travelers.
  • Public Transit: Local public transit (buses, subways) will typically run on a reduced Sunday or holiday schedule. Check your local transit authority for details.

Stores Confirmed to be CLOSED on Thanksgiving 2025

To save yourself a wasted trip, remember that the following major retailers will be closed on Thanksgiving Day, November 27, 2025, continuing the recent trend of giving employees the holiday off.

  • Walmart
  • Target
  • Costco
  • Sam's Club
  • Trader Joe's
  • ALDI
  • Lidl
  • Publix
  • Home Depot
  • Lowe's

When planning your holiday, remember that even stores that are open are operating on a significantly reduced holiday schedule. A quick call or online check of a store’s specific Thanksgiving store hours is the best way to ensure your last-minute shopping is successful and doesn't interrupt your family's Thanksgiving gathering. Enjoy a safe and well-prepared holiday!

The Definitive List of 40+ Stores, Restaurants, and Services Open on Thanksgiving Day 2025
what's open on thanksgiving
what's open on thanksgiving

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