Thanksgiving Day 2024 is just around the corner, and for many Americans, that means preparing for a festive feast and perhaps, squeezing in some last-minute shopping. While Thanksgiving is traditionally a time to gather with loved ones, it’s also a day when many find themselves running out of key ingredients or looking for early Black Friday deals. However, whether you can shop or not depends largely on where you live and which stores you plan to visit.
Here’s a breakdown of which stores will be open—and which will be closed—on Thanksgiving 2024, so you can plan your day accordingly.
Grocery Stores: Which Chains Will Be Open on Thanksgiving?
Thanksgiving is the ultimate food-centric holiday, so many grocery stores will be open to accommodate those looking for last-minute ingredients or fresh produce for their holiday meals. If you find yourself running out of potatoes, vegetables, or a crucial ingredient, there are several grocery chains that will remain open.
Chains like Acme, Albertsons, Food Lion, and Safeway will keep their doors open on Thanksgiving Day 2024. However, hours may be limited, with some stores closing earlier than usual. For example, Harris Teeter plans to close by 2:00 p.m. and H-E-B will close at noon. Other stores like Meijer, Ralph’s, and Wegmans will also be open to shoppers in need of holiday essentials. Whole Foods Market and Sprouts Farmers Market will continue to serve customers as well, though store hours may vary by location. It’s always a good idea to check with your local store to confirm the timing, as some locations may offer extended hours or special promotions for the holiday season.
Grocery Stores Closed on Thanksgiving
On the flip side, some of the biggest names in grocery retail will not be open for Thanksgiving 2024. Costco, Walmart, Aldi, and BJ’s Wholesale Club will all close their doors for the holiday, leaving shoppers to make alternative plans for their food and household needs. Other major chains like Trader Joe’s, Sam’s Club, and Publix will also remain closed.
If you typically rely on these big-box stores for bulk items, groceries, or household goods, it’s important to complete your shopping in advance, as they won’t be available for any last-minute runs. Remember, you won’t be able to grab those extra snacks or fresh ingredients from Walmart or Costco, so make sure your pantry is stocked well ahead of time.
Retailers Open on Thanksgiving Day
While many large retailers will be closed, several stores will remain open for those looking to get a jump on their holiday shopping or pick up some last-minute essentials. A few big-name retailers, including Bass Pro Shops, Cabela’s, Big Lots, and Dollar General, will be open for Thanksgiving shoppers. These stores are great options for those needing household items, snacks, or even seasonal decorations for their celebrations.
In addition to these, CVS and Walgreens will keep their 24-hour locations open, although their pharmacies will likely be closed for the holiday. Starbucks will also stay open on Thanksgiving Day, providing much-needed caffeine to help keep you energized. Whether you need a quick coffee fix or a snack, many Starbucks locations will be ready to serve their usual menu, including seasonal favorites like pumpkin spice lattes.
For those hoping to score some early Black Friday deals, a handful of stores will open in the evening, including Macy’s and DSW, both of which are opening around 5:00 p.m. This gives shoppers the chance to snag some deals before the official Black Friday rush.
Retailers Closed on Thanksgiving
While some retailers will remain open, Thanksgiving is still a day when many large chains will close to give their employees time with family. Big-box stores like Target, Best Buy, Home Depot, Apple, Kohl’s, and Nordstrom will remain closed for the day. These closures reflect a broader trend in recent years, as many companies choose to give their workers the day off rather than keep their doors open for early holiday shoppers.
Other major retailers like Dick’s Sporting Goods, Ulta, Petco, and Michaels will also be closed on Thanksgiving, leaving customers with fewer options for home improvement, beauty products, and pet supplies. It’s important for shoppers to plan ahead, as these stores will not be available for any last-minute holiday shopping.
Additionally, Sam’s Club and Target, which usually offer wide selections of holiday merchandise, will be closed for the day, making it impossible for customers to take advantage of any Thanksgiving or early Black Friday sales.
State-Specific Laws Impact Store Hours
In some U.S. states, certain blue laws restrict businesses from operating on holidays like Thanksgiving. States such as Maine, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island have strict regulations that prohibit most retailers from opening on Thanksgiving. Shoppers in these states will need to take these laws into account when making their holiday plans, as store hours will be more limited compared to other regions.
Final Thoughts
Thanksgiving 2024 presents a mixed bag when it comes to store availability. If you’re planning to shop for last-minute holiday items, you’ll find a range of grocery stores and essential retailers open, but big-box stores like Costco, Walmart, and Target will be closed for the holiday. Keep in mind that many smaller stores, like CVS and Walgreens, will be open for basic needs, but pharmacies will be closed.
As always, check with your local store for specific hours and availability, especially if you’re in a state with restrictions. With a little bit of planning, you’ll be ready to enjoy a stress-free Thanksgiving dinner—and maybe even catch some early Black Friday sales!
