Stores Open on Thanksgiving 2025: Full List, Hours & Holiday Shopping Guide

Thanksgiving has become more than just a day for family gatherings and festive meals — it’s also one of the busiest shopping periods of the year. While many major retailers now keep their doors closed to allow employees time with family, several stores still operate with modified hours. If you're wondering which stores are open on Thanksgiving, this complete guide covers opening hours, top retailers, safety tips, and strategic ways to make the most of Thanksgiving Day shopping in 2025.

Why Some Stores Stay Open on Thanksgiving

Over the past decade, retailers have shifted their Thanksgiving policies. Many stores like Walmart, Target, and Costco now stay closed — a move widely supported by employees and shoppers who value family time. But some essential and convenience-based stores remain open to meet public demand.

High demand for last-minute grocery items
Urgent household needs such as medicine and supplies
Tourist-heavy locations requiring 24/7 operations
Competitive early Black Friday strategies

Stores Open on Thanksgiving 2025

Below is an updated list of stores that typically open on Thanksgiving Day. Hours may vary by location, so confirming with your nearest store is recommended.

1. Grocery Stores Open on Thanksgiving

Whole Foods Market

Some Whole Foods locations open for limited hours on Thanksgiving morning, usually closing by 2 PM – 4 PM.

Safeway

Safeway stores generally operate holiday hours from 6 AM to 3 PM. Perfect for food essentials.

Kroger & Family of Stores

Kroger, Ralphs, and Fred Meyer often operate during reduced hours, typically closing in mid-afternoon.

Albertsons

Most Albertsons grocery stores open from 6 AM to 2 PM. Pharmacy services may vary.

Food Lion

Food Lion stores typically stay open with modified hours, usually 7 AM to 3 PM.

2. Convenience & Drugstores Open on Thanksgiving

CVS

Most CVS locations stay open. Pharmacy hours may differ, but retail sections usually stay open from 8 AM to 10 PM.

Walgreens

Walgreens stores commonly open with regular or reduced hours. Selected stores remain open 24/7.

Rite Aid

Rite Aid locations generally stay open, though pharmacy counters may close earlier.

3. Convenience & Gas Stations

7-Eleven

Open 24/7, making it one of the most reliable stores on Thanksgiving Day.

Circle K

Most locations operate normally with food, beverages, and basic essentials available.

Wawa & Sheetz

Popular on the East Coast, these stores remain open throughout the holiday.

Speedway & QuikTrip

Great for fuel, snacks, and emergency supplies with regular hours.

4. Retailers That May Be Open

Bass Pro Shops

Often open from 8 AM to 6 PM on Thanksgiving.

Cabela’s

Similar to Bass Pro Shops with modified hours.

Big Lots

Many Big Lots locations open from 7 AM to 1 PM for early holiday shoppers.

5. Restaurants & Food Chains Open on Thanksgiving

Starbucks

Many Starbucks locations are open for limited morning hours.

McDonald’s

Most gas-station-based and 24-hour McDonald’s locations stay open.

Denny’s

Always open — perfect for dine-in meals during the holiday.

IHOP

Many IHOP restaurants remain open, some operating 24 hours.

Stores Closed on Thanksgiving 2025

Walmart
Target
Costco
Sam’s Club
Home Depot
Best Buy
Kohl’s
TJ Maxx, Marshalls & HomeGoods
Lowe’s
Macy’s

Why Many Retailers Close on Thanksgiving

Employee well-being and family time
Positive public sentiment
Growth of online shopping and early Black Friday deals
Operational costs often exceed profits on holidays

Tips for Shopping on Thanksgiving

1. Check Store Hours in Advance

Hours vary widely, so checking online or calling your local store is essential.

2. Shop Early in the Morning

Crowds increase significantly after noon.

3. Prepare a Quick Shopping List

Common last-minute items include butter, milk, spices, foil, and drinks.

4. Use Delivery Apps

Instacart, Uber Eats, and other apps often operate on Thanksgiving in many cities.

5. Expect Limited Staff

Holiday staffing is usually minimal, so checkout lines may take longer.

Thanksgiving Shopping Checklist

Wallet & ID
Reusable bags
Phone & charger
Shopping list
Water bottle
Coupons or store apps

Is Shopping on Thanksgiving Worth It?

YES — if you need essentials or last-minute ingredients.

YES — if you want early markdowns at select retailers.

NO — for big electronics and appliances; better deals come on Black Friday.

Final Thoughts

Thanksgiving is a day for family, traditions, and celebration — but it’s also a day when many people need last-minute items. While most major retailers remain closed, numerous grocery stores, convenience shops, pharmacies, and restaurants stay open with modified hours. With this complete guide, you’ll know exactly where to go and how to shop efficiently on Thanksgiving Day.

Plan ahead, stay safe, and enjoy your holiday shopping!

Stores Open on Thanksgiving: Full 2025 Shopping Guide