Many people want to know what store are open on Thanksgiving so they can pick up last minute ingredients, shop sales, or find a pharmacy. Department chains, grocery stores, and big box retailers often adjust hours around the holiday, with some staying open while others close entirely.
Below is a quick reference that shows typical Thanksgiving schedules, followed by deeper guidance on planning your day and avoiding disappointment.
| Store | Typical Thanksgiving Day Hours | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Walmart | 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM (varies by location) | Open early for last minute food and household items |
| Target | 8:00 AM – 9:00 PM (varies by region) | Shorter hours, pharmacy and Starbucks may operate |
| Kroger | Closed or limited hours at select stores | Most locations closed, some run holiday shift |
| CVS Pharmacy | Hours vary, many remain open | Pharmacy and essentials, check local store |
| Costco | Closed | Closed on Thanksgiving, reopen the next day |
Planning Your Thanksgiving Grocery Run
If your goal is to buy turkey, produce, and pantry staples, the best option is to verify hours directly on the retailer website or app. Many stores update their holiday hours weeks in advance and remove items like deli counters or bakery service on the day.
Arriving early can reduce stress, especially at stores that limit capacity or require masks. Consider curbside pickup if available, since inventory can sell out quickly in popular departments.
Shopping for Electronics and Big Ticket Items
Electronics chains sometimes open later than grocery stores on Thanksgiving, focusing on Black Friday doorbuster events rather than full service. Customers looking for gaming consoles, laptops, or large appliances should check each brand’s schedule and note any online exclusive offers.
Some retailers open small pop up areas inside larger stores to manage crowds, so it pays to arrive at opening time if you want high demand products.
Pharmacy and Convenience Needs on Thanksgiving
Travelers, families with young children, and people managing ongoing prescriptions often need to know what store are open on Thanksgiving for toiletries, snacks, and medication. Pharmacy driven locations like CVS and Walgreens frequently remain open, though services may be reduced.
Call ahead or browse the store locator to confirm vaccine, testing, or prescription pickup availability before making the trip.
Regional Differences and Local Rules
Local regulations can override national trends, with some cities limiting store hours or banning alcohol sales on the holiday. Urban locations may have more options, while rural areas see full closures across chains.
Weather, labor shortages, and local union agreements also affect who is open on Thanksgiving and at what capacity.
Key Takeaways for Thanksgiving Day Shopping
- Check store specific hours online or via mobile app before leaving home
- Pharmacy driven locations are more likely to stay open than full service grocery stores
- Electronics and big ticket categories may follow a separate schedule from groceries
- Arriving early or using curbside services can improve the experience
- Local laws and regional differences can change which stores are open on Thanksgiving
FAQ
Reader questions
Will my local Walmart be open on Thanksgiving Day?
Most Walmart locations stay open on Thanksgiving, with hours often from 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM, but specific times vary by store, so check the local store page or app.
Are grocery stores like Kroger open on Thanksgiving?
Many Kroger stores are closed on Thanksgiving, while a limited number may operate with reduced hours, so confirm using their store hours tool or website.
What pharmacy options are available on Thanksgiving?
CVS and Walgreens frequently remain open on Thanksgiving, though service levels may differ, so verify hours for prescriptions and immunizations in your area.
Do warehouse clubs like Costco and Sam’s Club open on Thanksgiving?
Costco and Sam’s Club are typically closed on Thanksgiving and usually reopen the following day, so plan your shopping accordingly.