A Guide to Stores and Restaurants Open on Thanksgiving 2024

Thanksgiving is a time for family, food, and gratitude, but sometimes the holiday comes with unexpected needs—like running out of cranberry sauce or craving a late-night coffee. While many big retailers like Walmart, Target, and Costco have decided to close their doors to give employees time with their families, some stores and restaurants remain open for those last-minute emergencies or dining out plans. Here’s a handy guide to help you navigate what’s open this Thanksgiving.

Shopping on Thanksgiving: Fewer Options Than Before

The trend of closing stores on Thanksgiving started during the pandemic and has continued in 2024. This means fewer in-person shopping options than in years past. However, some stores are offering online deals for those who want to get a head start on Black Friday sales.

Big names like Target, Costco, and Kohl’s are closed, along with many grocery stores such as Trader Joe’s and Publix. For those in Maine, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island, strict state laws mean most retailers will also stay closed.

But not all hope is lost—some stores are still open for last-minute grocery runs or holiday shopping, although hours may be reduced. Here’s a look at some of the options available.

Grocery Stores Open on Thanksgiving

If you forgot a key ingredient for your holiday feast, some grocery stores are here to save the day.

• Acme Market: Open from 7 a.m. to 4 p.m.

• Albertsons: Hours vary by location, but most have shorter hours

• Food Lion: Many locations open until 3 p.m.

• The Fresh Market: Open from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

• Giant Food: Open from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• H-E-B: Open from 6 a.m. to noon.

• Kroger: Most locations open until 4 p.m.

• Meijer: Open from 6 a.m. to 5 p.m.

• Ralphs: Open until 10 p.m.

• Sprouts Farmers Market: Open from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.

•Stop & Shop: Open from 7 a.m. to 3 p.m.

• Wegmans: Most locations open until 4 p.m.

• Whole Foods Market: Open from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Keep in mind that hours may vary by location, so it’s always best to check with your nearest store before heading out.

Retail Stores Open on Thanksgiving

While most major retailers are closed, a few remain open with limited hours:

• Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's: Open from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

• Big Lots: Open from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m.

• CVS: Many locations have reduced hours, except for 24-hour stores.

• Dollar General: Hours vary.

• Family Dollar: Open from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Convenience Stores Open 24/7

If you’re looking for a quick snack, a cup of coffee, or even gas, convenience stores are a reliable option. Most of these locations operate 24 hours a day:

• 7-Eleven

• Circle K

• Love's Travel Stops

•Pilot Flying J

• Sheetz

• Wawa

Some stores, like Casey’s and Cumberland Farms, will also remain open but with varying hours depending on the location.

Restaurants Open on Thanksgiving

If cooking isn’t your thing or you want a break from the kitchen, a variety of restaurants will welcome you on Thanksgiving. However, not all locations will be open, so it’s a good idea to call ahead to confirm.

Here are some popular choices:

• Cracker Barrel

• Denny's

• IHOP

• McDonald's

• Popeyes

•Starbucks

• Waffle House

• Ruth’s Chris Steak House

• Golden Corral

Some fast-food chains, including Subway, Domino’s, and Wendy’s, also have select locations open on Thanksgiving Day.

Restaurants Closed on Thanksgiving

While many chains are open, some popular restaurants will remain closed, including:

•Chick-fil-A

• Taco Bell

• Olive Garden

• Texas Roadhouse

• Chipotle

Plan Ahead for Thanksgiving 2024

Thanksgiving closures are a growing trend, encouraging more families to focus on spending quality time together. However, if you need a quick grocery run, a cup of coffee, or a meal away from home, there are still options available.

To avoid frustration, always check store or restaurant hours in advance, as they can vary by location. With a little planning, you can navigate the holiday with ease and make the most of Thanksgiving Day.