Thanksgiving Store Hours 2026
Thanksgiving sees some of the largest store closures of the year as most major retailers have shifted to staying closed, reserving the shopping push for Black Friday.
The shift away from Thanksgiving retail started in 2011 when major chains began opening on Thanksgiving Day to compete with online retailers โ but consumer and employee backlash reversed the trend. By 2021, most Fortune 500 retailers had permanently closed on Thanksgiving.
~90%
Major retailers closed
~60%
Grocery stores open AM only
~70%
Fast food locations open
5โ8 AM
Black Friday doors open next day
Closed on Thanksgiving
6 brandsReduced hours on Thanksgiving
3 brandsOpen on Thanksgiving
6 brandsThanksgiving shopping tips
Stock up on groceries the day before โ most supermarkets close early
Thanksgiving is now mostly a closed holiday at major retailers
Convenience stores and pharmacies are typically open
Many restaurants are open โ check ahead for reservations
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Walmart open on Thanksgiving?
Walmart stores are closed on Thanksgiving Day since 2020. They reopen for Black Friday.
Is Target open on Thanksgiving?
Target has been closed on Thanksgiving since 2021 to give employees the holiday off.
What grocery stores are open on Thanksgiving?
Many Kroger, Safeway and local grocery stores open for a few morning hours. Hours vary significantly by location.
Are restaurants open on Thanksgiving?
Many restaurants โ especially fast food, diners and chains โ are open on Thanksgiving, though often with limited menus.