Which stores are typically open on Thanksgiving in the U.S.
On Thanksgiving, many big-box retailers and national drugstores are open, while grocery stores and many small shops are closed. Learn typical patterns, exceptions, and how to confirm current hours.
Typical store categories open on Thanksgiving
These formats commonly operate on the holiday, often with reduced hours:
- Mass merchandise retailers (e.g., Target, Walmart)
- Home improvement and hardware chains (e.g., Lowe’s, The Home Depot)
- Drugstores and mass-market pharmacies (e.g., CVS, Walgreens)
- Select warehouse clubs (e.g., Costco, Sam’s Club)
Target
Most Target locations open in the morning—often around 8 a.m.—and stay open through the holiday. Toy departments and popular electronics may have limited availability.
Walmart
Many Walmart stores open on Thanksgiving, typically starting around 6 a.m. or earlier for groceries and around 6–8 a.m. for general merchandise. Availability varies by location.
Lowe’s and The Home Depot
Home improvement stores commonly open on Thanksgiving, with hours similar to Saturday. Garden centers and seasonal departments may be closed or limited.
CVS and Walgreens
Most locations remain open for prescriptions and essentials, with pharmacy hours often aligned with normal daytime schedules. Pickup and delivery windows may apply.
Costco and Sam’s Club
Warehouse clubs frequently operate on Thanksgiving, opening around 9–10 a.m. Tire and services centers are usually closed. Membership benefits and shop policies still apply.
Common exceptions and closures
These retailers and formats typically remain closed on Thanksgiving:
- Supermarkets and full-service grocery stores
- Small independent shops and boutiques
- Specialty and niche retailers
How to verify hours for your location
Because individual stores can differ, confirm using these methods:
- Store website or mobile app location finder
- Google Maps or Apple Maps search for the store
- Phone call to the specific location
- Third-party hour-tracking sites that reference official data
Quick reference: which stores are open on Thanksgiving
| Store | Typical Thanksgiving Hours | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Target | 8 a.m.–6 p.m. (varies) | Most locations open; toy section busy |
| Walmart | 6–8 a.m.–9–10 p.m. (location dependent) | Some open 24 hours for groceries |
| Lowe’s | 7 a.m.–5 p.m. | Hardware and garden may vary |
| The Home Depot | 7 a.m.–5 p.m. | Select departments closed |
| CVS | 8 a.m.–6 p.m. | Pharmacy hours may differ |
| Walgreens | 8 a.m.–6 p.m. | Prescription services available |
| Costco | 9–10 a.m.–4:30 p.m. | Tire centers closed |
| Sam’s Club | 9 a.m.–4:30 p.m. | Member hours may apply |
| Grocery chains | Closed | Exceptions rare |
Planning your Thanksgiving shopping
If you need groceries, plan for stores that reopen the day after Thanksgiving or use delivery/pickup options. For non-grocery essentials, check the store’s website or app the evening before to avoid surprises.