Many shoppers want to know which stores are open on Thanksgiving as they plan holiday travel and meal prep. Department chains, grocery outlets, and big box retailers often follow different schedules, so checking ahead saves time.
Below is a quick reference that compares major store types, operating hours, and pickup options for Thanksgiving Day.
| Store | Typical Thanksgiving Hours | Online Order Pickup | Express Checkout |
|---|---|---|---|
| Walmart Supercenter | 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM | Available with early slot | Yes at select locations |
| Target | 9:00 AM – 8:00 PM | Drive up and pickup | Yes with same-day service |
| Kroger Marketplace | 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM | Available via app | Yes at register |
| Costco | Closed | Not offered | N/A |
Thanksgiving Grocery Store Hours
Large grocery chains often keep reduced hours on Thanksgiving, focusing on fresh food service and restocking. Supermarket associates benefit from early openings, while deli counters may run limited menus.
Kroger and its affiliates typically open around 7:00 AM, offering hot bar items and catering options. Albertsons stores usually follow similar early hours, with bakeries and meat departments fully staffed.
Big Box Retail Thanksgiving Operations
Walmart and Target schedules
Walmart Supercenters generally open at 8:00 AM and stay open until 7:00 PM, providing holiday essentials and last-minute household goods. Target often starts at 9:00 AM and extends to 8:00 PM, with curated Thanksgiving decor and kitchenware.
Membership warehouse stores
Costco remains closed on Thanksgiving, aligning with its policy to give employees the holiday off. Sam’s Club hours may vary by location, so confirming with local clubs is recommended.
Department and Specialty Chains
Home improvement and apparel chains adjust hours based on regional demand and staff availability. Macy’s and JCPenney often open later in the day, focusing on customer service rather than heavy sales.
Lowe’s and Home Depot may open around 9:00 AM, supporting homeowners with last-minute projects while limiting staffing for safety reasons.Regional Variations and Local Rules
State laws and union agreements can shift operating hours, particularly in unionized regions and metropolitan areas. Liquor store availability may differ significantly from chain grocery schedules.
Rural locations sometimes maintain shorter windows, while urban centers offer extended service at select pharmacies and convenience stores.
Online, Delivery, and Curbside Options
Most major retailers support Thanksgiving orders with earlier cutoffs for same-day service. Curbside pickup remains popular, allowing customers to skip inside lines while stores manage capacity.
Instacart and Shipt partners often operate with modified schedules, so confirming time slots in advance helps avoid delays for holiday meal ingredients.
Plan Your Thanksgiving Shopping Early
- Confirm local store hours using websites or phone calls the week before Thanksgiving.
- Use online pickup and delivery to avoid crowded aisles and reduce stress.
- Place orders early to secure preferred time slots for curbside service.
- Check meal prep timelines so shopping aligns with cooking and family schedules.
- Keep backup options ready in case your preferred location has reduced hours.
FAQ
Reader questions
Are grocery stores open on Thanksgiving morning?
Yes, many grocery stores open early, often around 7:00 AM, to serve holiday shoppers needing fresh ingredients and last-minute items.
Can I pick up online orders at Target on Thanksgiving?
Target typically offers drive up and pickup with limited hours, and you can reserve times through their app or website in advance.
Do warehouse clubs like Costco stay open on Thanksgiving?
No, Costco remains closed on Thanksgiving to honor employee time off, while locations may adjust hours on the day after.
What time do Walmart and other big box stores open on Thanksgiving?
Walmart usually opens at 8:00 PM and operates until 7:00 PM, with variations possible based on local regulations and staffing.