Which Major Stores Stay Open on Thanksgiving
On Thanksgiving, many big-box and grocery chains remain open, though hours and availability vary by region and store. This guide summarizes which major stores are generally open on Thanksgiving across the United States, what you can typically buy, and reliable ways to confirm exact hours. For the most accurate information, always check the store website or app before you go, because holiday schedules can shift by location and by year.
Grocery Stores Open on Thanksgiving
National Chains With Consistent Thanksgiving Hours
Large grocery and supercenter chains commonly operate on Thanksgiving, often with reduced hours. Below is a summary of typical patterns based on recent holiday schedules:
| Store | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Kroger | Many stores open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m., local variation common | Historical corporate policy & regional reports |
| Walmart | Often open 7 a.m. to 8 p.m>, select 24-hour locations | Corporate holiday guidance & customer reports |
| Target | Frequent 8 a.m. to 7 p.m. hours, some close earlier | Annual holiday hour listings |
| ALDI | Commonly open 9 a.m. to 3 p.m., early close typical | Published holiday hour templates |
| Whole Foods Market | Many locations open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., department variation | Regional manager statements |
Drugstores and convenience stores are less likely to be open; exceptions include some CVS and Walgreens in metro areas, which may keep limited pharmacy hours.
Warehouse and Home Improvement Stores
Home improvement and warehouse clubs often run special Thanksgiving promotions, and many locations stay open:
- Costco: Selected warehouses open, typically 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.; membership benefits and sample programs may operate
- Home Depot: Many stores open around 6 a.m. to 7 p.m., focusing on sales and pickups
- Lowe’s: Common hours 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., varies by store
Confirm with your local branch, as closures and modified hours are possible in some regions.
Department and Big-Box Retailers
Several big-box retailers now treat Thanksgiving as a regular sales day, launching holiday promotions while stores remain open:
- Best Buy: Many locations open 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., with early electronics and appliance deals
- Macy’s and JCPenney: Department stores commonly open around 10 a.m. to 8 p.m., focusing on Black Friday preview events
- Walmart and Target (above): Broad assortment, from groceries to gifts, within stated hours
Note that select high-rent urban stores may close or follow different schedules; local differences are common.
How to Confirm Thanksgiving Hours for Your Location
Because Thanksgiving hours can change and vary by region, use these steps to verify a specific store:
- Visit the store’s official website and use the store locator or holiday hours page.
- Check the store’s mobile app if you have it installed; holiday hours are often listed there.
- Call the individual store directly for the most reliable, up-to-date information.
- Monitor social media or local news for any last-minute changes due to staffing or weather.
Alternative Options When Preferred Stores Are Closed
If your usual store is closed, consider these alternatives:
- Online delivery or curbside pickup from grocery and big-box retailers where available
- Pharmacy-focused chains for essentials, when local policies allow
- Prepared meal options from restaurants, delis, and grocery hot counters
Key Takeaways
Many major stores are open on Thanksgiving, commonly from the morning into the evening, but hours differ by region and by store. Grocery chains, warehouse clubs, and big-box retailers most often operate, while smaller shops and some pharmacies may remain closed. Always confirm hours with the store’s official website, app, or a quick phone call to ensure the most accurate, location-specific information for your Thanksgiving plans.