No, Walmart stores across the United States will remain closed on Thanksgiving Day, Thursday, November 27, 2025, allowing employees to enjoy family time. This policy, in place since 2020, prioritizes work-life balance during the holiday season.
Why Walmart Closes for Thanksgiving
Walmart’s decision reflects a broader retail trend toward giving staff a break from holiday shifts, especially after years of late-night openings that cut into family gatherings. Shoppers needing last-minute turkey essentials, pie ingredients, or tableware must plan ahead or turn to alternatives, as all Walmart Supercenters, Neighborhood Markets, and Sam’s Clubs follow this nationwide closure. Online shopping remains available 24/7 via Walmart.com or the app, with grocery pickup resuming Friday.
Publix, Walmart, Kroger & more: Here’s what is open, closed in Beaufort County on Thanksgiving https://t.co/AUkejbbh8G
— beaufortgazette (@beaufortgazette) November 27, 2025
Black Friday Hours After Thanksgiving Closure
Walmart bounces back strong on Black Friday, November 28, 2025, with most locations opening at 6 a.m. local time for doorbuster deals on electronics, toys, apparel, and home goods. Extended hours often run until 11 p.m., though smaller stores may close earlier around 9-10 p.m.—check the Walmart app’s Store Finder for exact times by location. Walmart+ members get early online access to promotions, making it easier to beat crowds.
Other Major Retailers Closed on Thanksgiving
Joining Walmart in full closure are competitors like Target, Costco, Aldi, and Sam’s Club, emphasizing employee holidays over sales rushes. Department stores including Macy’s, Kohl’s, JCPenney, and discount chains like TJ Maxx, Ross, and Burlington also shut doors completely. Specialty spots such as Bath & Body Works, Sephora, Apple, and sporting goods retailers like Dick’s follow suit, keeping shopping streets quiet.
Stores Open with Limited Thanksgiving Hours
Grocery chains offer relief for forgotten items: Food Lion operates 7 a.m. to 4 p.m. at most spots, Kroger and affiliates like Ralphs have modified daytime schedules varying by store, Meijer runs 6 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Whole Foods typically does 7 a.m. to 1 p.m. Pharmacies like CVS keep 24-hour locations running, while select Walgreens sites stay open; convenience stops including 7-Eleven, Circle K, and Wawa maintain normal or 24/7 access for travelers. Restaurants such as Cracker Barrel, Denny’s, McDonald’s, and Starbucks welcome diners, though franchise hours differ—call ahead.
Tips for Holiday Shopping Success
Verify local hours using store apps or websites, as variations occur despite corporate guidelines. Stock up on Thanksgiving Eve (November 26), when Walmart extends to 6 a.m.-11 p.m., or shift to online Black Friday previews starting days early. For SEO-driven planning, searches like “is Walmart open on Thanksgiving” spike annually, so bookmark reliable sources now. This approach ensures stress-free feasting and deal-hunting amid 2025’s holiday buzz.