- Major Retailers Closed: Many large chains, including Target, Costco, and Lowe’s, will be closed on Thanksgiving Day to give employees a holiday break.
- Grocery Stores Vary: While some grocery stores like Aldi and Trader Joe’s are closed, others such as Kroger and Whole Foods will operate with reduced hours for last-minute needs.
- Black Friday Kickoff: Most stores will reopen their doors early on Black Friday, with some like JCPenney and Kohl’s opening as early as 5 a.m.
- Check Locally: Hours can vary by location, so it’s always best to check with your local store before heading out for any last-minute shopping.
As Thanksgiving approaches, many are finalizing their feast preparations. But what happens when you realize you’re missing a key ingredient? A last-minute trip to the store might be necessary, but shoppers will need to plan carefully, as many retailers will be closed or operating on a limited schedule for the holiday.
Gone are the days of widespread Thanksgiving Day doorbusters. In recent years, a growing number of retailers have opted to remain closed, allowing their employees to spend the day with their families. However, for those in a pinch, some options remain open.
Major Retailers Closed on Thanksgiving
If you need anything beyond groceries, you’ll want to shop ahead. Most major retail chains will be closed for the holiday.
- Target
- Costco
- Home Depot
- Lowe’s
- IKEA
- Dick’s Sporting Goods
- Sam’s Club
- TJ Maxx, Marshalls, and HomeGoods
Grocery Stores Open With Limited Hours
For that forgotten can of cranberry sauce or extra box of stuffing, several national grocery chains will be open, though most will close early.
- Kroger: Many locations will close in the early afternoon.
- Whole Foods: Most stores will operate on a modified schedule, often from 7 a.m. to 1 p.m.
- Wegmans: Most locations will close around 4 p.m.
- Food Lion: Stores will generally close at 3 p.m.
- H-E-B: Open from 6 a.m. to noon.
Grocery Chains Closed for the Holiday
Some popular grocery stores will be completely closed on Thanksgiving, so be sure to get your shopping done in advance if these are your go-to spots.
- Aldi
- Trader Joe’s
- Hy-Vee
Pharmacies and Restaurants
Need a prescription or a quick coffee? Some pharmacies and fast-food chains will be open, but with varied hours. CVS locations will largely be open, while most Walgreens stores will be closed, except for 24-hour locations. For dining, chains like Starbucks and Dunkin’ will have some locations open, but it’s essential to use their store locators to confirm.
Black Friday: When the Shopping Season Begins
The day after Thanksgiving marks the traditional start of the holiday shopping season, and retailers will be ready with early hours.
- JCPenney & Kohl’s: Open at 5 a.m.
- Best Buy, Target, Lowe’s & Walmart: Open at 6 a.m.
- Macy’s: Open at 6 a.m.
- TJ Maxx & Marshalls: Open at 7 a.m.
Before heading out on either day, a quick check of the store’s official website or app can save you a trip and ensure your holiday plans go off without a hitch.
Image Referance: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/open-closed-thanksgiving-black-friday-2025/