| Store Category | Example Chains | Typical Thanksgiving Status | Average Hours | Family Convenience Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Grocery & Supermarket Chains | Albertsons, Kroger, Whole Foods, Safeway, H-E-B | Open with reduced hours | 6 a.m. – 3 p.m. (varies) | Best for last-minute ingredients before noon |
| Discount & Dollar Stores | Dollar General, Family Dollar, Dollar Tree | Mostly open | 7 a.m. – 9 p.m. | Good for emergency household items |
| Pharmacies & Drugstores | CVS, Walgreens, Rite Aid | Many open (some 24 hrs) | 24 hrs or 8 a.m. – 6 p.m. | Ideal for health, snacks, and essentials |
| Big-Box & Department Stores | Target, Walmart, Best Buy, Macy’s | Mostly closed | Closed all day | Prepare before Thanksgiving Day |
| Convenience & Gas Station Chains | 7-Eleven, Wawa, Sheetz | Open 24 hrs | All day | Reliable for fuel and quick buys |
| Outdoor & Specialty Retailers | Bass Pro Shops, Cabela’s | Partially open | 9 a.m. – 6 p.m. | Great for outdoor or gift shoppers |
| Local & Regional Chains | Independent supermarkets, markets | Mixed | Varies widely | Call ahead; depends on region and policy |
🥧 Introduction
Thanksgiving morning often brings warmth, laughter, and the comforting scent of food filling the home — until someone realizes the cranberry sauce is missing. Every year, families across the country find themselves making a last-minute dash for forgotten ingredients or supplies. Knowing which stores are open on Thanksgiving can turn a potential holiday headache into a quick fix.
This guide offers everything you need to know about which stores keep their doors open on Thanksgiving Day 2025. It includes grocery chains, discount stores, pharmacies, big-box retailers, convenience stores, and outdoor chains — plus smart shopping tips and a Thanksgiving essentials checklist to make sure you’re ready before the feast begins.
🛒 Which Grocery Stores Stay Open on Thanksgiving?
Grocery chains are the backbone of Thanksgiving preparation. While most operate on limited schedules, they remain the top destination for last-minute ingredients, desserts, or beverages.
Albertsons
Albertsons generally opens its doors on Thanksgiving morning, offering reduced hours to accommodate early shoppers. Many branches open around 6 a.m. and close by 3 p.m. Bakery and deli sections might close earlier, so plan your trip before noon.
Kroger
Kroger stores tend to open early, typically around 6 a.m., with many closing by 4 p.m. Pharmacies inside Kroger are usually closed. However, essentials like butter, vegetables, and desserts remain stocked through the day’s early hours.
H-E-B
Known for serving regional shoppers, H-E-B usually opens for half a day, from early morning to noon. It’s an excellent stop for Texans needing quick runs for bread, milk, or pre-made pies.
Whole Foods
Whole Foods often operates limited hours on Thanksgiving, usually 7 a.m. to 2 p.m. Expect some departments, such as catering or bakery, to close earlier. Shoppers appreciate the store’s fresh organic produce and ready-made side dishes for quick additions to the holiday table.
Safeway and Vons
Both Safeway and Vons usually stay open during the morning and early afternoon, closing earlier than usual. They’re dependable for basic groceries like canned goods, drinks, and frozen vegetables.
| Grocery Chain | Open Status | Typical Hours | Best For | Pro Tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Albertsons | Open | 6 a.m.–3 p.m. | Pantry & produce | Visit before 11 a.m. to avoid lines |
| Kroger | Open | 6 a.m.–4 p.m. | Baking supplies | Bakery closes early |
| H-E-B | Open | 6 a.m.–12 p.m. | Dairy & essentials | Arrive before noon |
| Whole Foods | Open | 7 a.m.–2 p.m. | Fresh produce | Deli may close earlier |
| Safeway/Vons | Open | 7 a.m.–3 p.m. | Drinks & frozen food | Confirm local branch hours |
💵 Which Discount and Dollar Stores Are Open on Thanksgiving?
Discount stores save the day when you forget paper plates, napkins, or batteries for the kids’ toys.
Dollar General
Dollar General is one of the most reliable stores on Thanksgiving Day. Most branches open early and stay open through the evening, generally 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Their shelves include cleaning supplies, snacks, decorations, and small gifts.
Family Dollar
Family Dollar locations often open but may close earlier than usual — typically between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. It’s a go-to stop for quick household goods or extra paper towels for post-feast cleanup.
Dollar Tree
Dollar Tree generally keeps doors open with reduced hours. You’ll find affordable tableware, utensils, and storage containers perfect for leftovers.
Five Below and Other Value Stores
Some value retailers open for shorter hours, especially in shopping centers that remain active. These are useful for last-minute small gifts or decorations.
| Store | Status | Typical Hours | Ideal Purchases | Family Tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Dollar General | Open | 7 a.m.–10 p.m. | Snacks, décor | Go early for fresh stock |
| Family Dollar | Open | 8 a.m.–6 p.m. | Household goods | Expect early closing |
| Dollar Tree | Open | 9 a.m.–5 p.m. | Tableware | Grab storage containers |
| Five Below | Partially Open | 10 a.m.–6 p.m. | Small gifts | Check mall policies |
🏬 Are Big-Box and Department Stores Open on Thanksgiving?
In recent years, major retailers have moved toward giving employees the day off, keeping doors closed until Black Friday. These closures reflect a growing emphasis on family time during the holiday.
Target
Target stores typically remain closed on Thanksgiving Day, reopening early the next morning for major sales. Online ordering and same-day delivery options are still available, so families can shop from home.
Walmart
Walmart has followed the same pattern, closing its stores on Thanksgiving to prepare for the next day’s events. Grocery pickup services are paused, so plan accordingly.
Best Buy
Best Buy stores usually close, but online deals go live during the holiday. Shoppers can still take advantage of electronics discounts from home.
Macy’s and Kohl’s
These department stores remain closed but offer extensive online sales. Many families enjoy browsing digital Black Friday previews from their couches after dinner.
| Store | Thanksgiving Status | Notes | Alternative Option |
|---|---|---|---|
| Target | Closed | Opens Black Friday early | Shop online for same-day pickup next day |
| Walmart | Closed | Black Friday prep | Use online grocery ordering for next-day pickup |
| Best Buy | Closed | Online-only deals | Order electronics online |
| Macy’s | Closed | Online promotions | Explore digital coupons |
| Kohl’s | Closed | Opens Friday | Check app for rewards |
💊 Which Pharmacies and Drugstores Stay Open on Thanksgiving?
Pharmacies are essential for last-minute health or wellness needs, and many remain open for convenience.
CVS
Most CVS branches open during the day, and 24-hour locations operate normally. Even if the pharmacy counter closes early, shoppers can still access snacks, toiletries, and first-aid supplies.
Walgreens
Walgreens usually opens most stores with limited hours, commonly 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. Their drive-thru pharmacies often maintain slightly longer schedules.
Rite Aid
Rite Aid stores tend to open for limited hours in most areas, offering essentials, beauty products, and health items.
| Pharmacy | Open Status | Typical Hours | Best For | Family Tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CVS | Open | 24 hrs / 8 a.m.–6 p.m. | Health & snacks | Confirm pharmacy counter hours |
| Walgreens | Open | 8 a.m.–6 p.m. | First-aid & toiletries | Check drive-thru availability |
| Rite Aid | Open | 9 a.m.–5 p.m. | Medicine & beauty | Visit early to avoid shortages |
⛽ Which Convenience Stores and Gas Chains Are Open?
For families traveling or needing quick supplies, convenience stores are a Thanksgiving lifesaver.
7-Eleven
Open 24 hours in most locations, 7-Eleven remains the most accessible option nationwide. From ice to beverages, it’s a one-stop shop for urgent needs.
Wawa
Wawa stores stay open around the clock, offering coffee, sandwiches, and travel snacks — a favorite for those on the road to see family.
Sheetz
Sheetz operates continuously, providing gas, hot meals, and convenience essentials. It’s ideal for travelers or night-shift workers.
| Chain | Status | Hours | Highlights | Tip |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7-Eleven | Open | 24 hrs | Snacks, drinks, ice | Reliable anywhere |
| Wawa | Open | 24 hrs | Hot meals & coffee | Perfect for road trips |
| Sheetz | Open | 24 hrs | Gas, food, gifts | Try their hot breakfast sandwiches |
🏕️ Are Specialty and Outdoor Stores Open?
Outdoor and specialty retailers often cater to early holiday shoppers or travelers preparing for seasonal recreation.
Bass Pro Shops
Bass Pro Shops often open mid-morning until early evening, catering to customers shopping for outdoor gear or holiday gifts.
Cabela’s
Cabela’s stores mirror Bass Pro’s schedule, staying open for shorter hours to allow staff to celebrate while serving early-day shoppers.
Local Hobby or Craft Stores
Smaller craft and gift shops may open for a few hours, especially in tourist towns. Expect limited staff and narrower selections.
⚖️ Why Some Stores Choose to Close on Thanksgiving
Many companies have shifted toward closing on Thanksgiving to promote work-life balance. Families appreciate this gesture, as it allows employees to celebrate without stress.
Other factors include labor laws in certain states, reduced customer traffic after noon, and the rise of online shopping options that make physical openings less necessary.
🕓 Thanksgiving Shopping Tips for Families
Planning ahead can save time, stress, and money. Here’s how to shop smartly around Thanksgiving:
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| Plan Early | Buy non-perishables a week before Thanksgiving to avoid crowded aisles. |
| Use Store Apps | Check live hours, holiday closings, and pickup availability. |
| Shop in the Morning | Most stores open early and close early — aim for morning trips. |
| Prepare a List | Write down every ingredient and supply you need — avoid impulse buys. |
| Double-Check Specialty Departments | Pharmacies, bakeries, or delis may close earlier than the main store. |
| Keep Essentials in Stock | Items like foil, butter, and beverages often sell out first. |
🧺 Thanksgiving Essentials Checklist
Here’s a printable-style table you can recreate for your kitchen or smartphone notes app:
| Category | Essential Items | Suggested Store Type |
|---|---|---|
| Cooking Basics | Butter, flour, sugar, oil, eggs | Grocery store |
| Side Dishes | Cranberry sauce, green beans, potatoes | Grocery or supermarket |
| Beverages | Sparkling water, soda, coffee, juice | Convenience or grocery |
| Cleaning Supplies | Trash bags, napkins, dish soap | Dollar or discount store |
| Decorations | Tablecloths, candles, paper plates | Dollar or craft store |
| Health & Wellness | Pain relievers, vitamins, bandages | Pharmacy |
| Travel Needs | Fuel, snacks, coffee | Gas station or convenience chain |
🌆 How Store Hours Differ by Region
Store hours on Thanksgiving vary depending on local laws and traditions. Some states maintain “holiday operation restrictions,” meaning certain large retailers cannot open at all. Urban areas may see more 24-hour stores, while rural towns often observe full-day closures. Always check local store listings before leaving home, as policies differ widely even within the same brand.
💬 Conclusion
Thanksgiving is a day for gratitude, family, and good food — but it’s also a day when last-minute shopping sometimes becomes necessary. Grocery stores and discount chains are usually your best bets for quick runs, while big-box stores and malls generally stay closed to allow staff to celebrate. Pharmacies, gas stations, and convenience chains remain open for urgent needs.
The key to a smooth Thanksgiving is preparation. Know which stores near you are open, plan shopping early in the morning, and remember: the goal isn’t just to get everything on your list, but to enjoy the people you’re shopping for. After all, Thanksgiving isn’t about what you forgot — it’s about what you already have.
❓FAQs
Q1: Are grocery stores open all day on Thanksgiving?
No. Most grocery stores open early and close by mid-afternoon. Always check your local branch’s hours in advance.
Q2: Can I buy medicine or health supplies on Thanksgiving?
Yes. Major pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens remain open, though their pharmacy counters may close early.
Q3: Are Walmart and Target open?
Both are typically closed all day, reopening early for Black Friday sales.
Q4: Where can I get gas or coffee during Thanksgiving travel?
Convenience chains such as 7-Eleven, Wawa, and Sheetz stay open 24 hours.
Q5: How can I avoid crowds when shopping on Thanksgiving?
Go early in the morning before 10 a.m., bring a list, and check store apps for real-time hours or capacity alerts.
