On Thanksgiving Day, November 26, 2026, many banks, government offices and major retailers are closed. Some grocery stores, restaurants, pharmacies, gas stations and convenience stores may remain open, but holiday hours vary by company and location.
Thanksgiving Day 2026 is Thursday, November 26, and because it is a U.S. federal holiday, many businesses close or run reduced hours. Holiday hours vary by company, city and even individual store, so confirm local hours before you drive anywhere.
This guide covers what is typically open and closed, why, and how to avoid a wasted trip. For the holiday’s background and traditions, see our Thanksgiving 2026 guide.
What Is Open on Thanksgiving 2026?
| Business or Service | Thanksgiving 2026 |
|---|---|
| Banks | Generally closed |
| Federal government offices | Closed |
| USPS | Closed |
| Major retailers | Many closed; some exceptions |
| Grocery stores | Varies by chain/location |
| Restaurants | Many locations open, often reduced hours |
| Pharmacies | Varies by location |
| Convenience stores | Many open |
| Gas stations | Many open |
| Hospitals | Emergency services operate |
| Airports | Operating, but schedules vary |
| Public transportation | Usually operating on holiday schedules |
Treat this table as a general guide. Corporate holiday policies can change, and individual locations can differ.
Are Banks Open on Thanksgiving 2026?
Are banks closed on Thanksgiving?
Mostly, yes. Thanksgiving is a Federal Reserve holiday, so Federal Reserve Banks are closed and most traditional bank branches close for the day. What that means in practice depends on the service:
- Branches: Generally closed.
- ATMs: Usually available.
- Mobile and online banking: Generally accessible.
- Automated payments, wire transfers and ACH processing: Processing is tied to the Federal Reserve’s schedule, so timing can shift.
- Customer service: Phone lines may have limited hours or be unavailable.
Can I use an ATM on Thanksgiving?
In general, yes. ATMs typically remain available, although availability depends on the machine’s location. An ATM inside a closed store or building may not be accessible, so a drive-up or exterior machine is a safer bet.
Can I use online banking on Thanksgiving?
Yes, mobile and online banking generally stay available even when branches are closed. You can usually check balances, review transactions and transfer money between your own accounts. Transactions that rely on bank processing may not complete until the next business day.
Will direct deposits arrive on Thanksgiving?
It depends on the payment type, your financial institution and the processing calendar. Because Thanksgiving is a Federal Reserve holiday, payments that depend on ACH processing may not post that day and may arrive on the next business day instead. Some employers and banks release funds earlier, so the result varies. If you’re waiting on a deposit, ask your employer or bank how they handle holiday timing, and don’t assume every deposit will be delayed.
What Stores Are Open on Thanksgiving 2026?
Retailers usually announce holiday hours closer to the date. The table below shows each retailer’s recent Thanksgiving pattern, but the 2026 schedule should always be confirmed with the retailer.
| Store | Recent Thanksgiving Pattern | 2026 Status | Important Note |
|---|---|---|---|
| Walmart | Closed in recent years | Verify 2026 | Check store hours on Walmart’s site |
| Target | Closed in recent years | Verify 2026 | Reopens Black Friday, hours vary |
| Costco | Typically closed | Verify 2026 | Check official schedule |
| Kroger | Varies by store | Check locally | Local store differences |
| Whole Foods | Varies, often modified hours | Check locally | Holiday hours vary |
| Walgreens | Varies, many locations limited or closed | Check locally | Pharmacy hours may differ |
| CVS | Many open with modified hours | Check locally | Pharmacy may have separate hours |
| Dollar General | Often open in many areas | Check locally | Store-specific |
| 7-Eleven | Many locations open | Check locally | Many locations operate extended hours |
Don’t assume any store is open or closed for good based on last year. A quick check of the retailer’s store locator takes less than a minute.
Is Walmart Open on Thanksgiving 2026?
Walmart stores have been closed on Thanksgiving Day in recent years, and shoppers should expect the same in 2026, but confirm on Walmart’s official site before you go.
Walmart ended its tradition of opening on Thanksgiving in 2020 and has kept stores closed since, saying associates should spend the day with their families. A few details are worth knowing:
- Store status: Expect stores to be closed, then reopen on Black Friday, November 27.
- Pharmacy hours: Pharmacies normally follow store hours, so expect them to be closed too.
- Pickup and delivery: Don’t assume service on Thanksgiving. Check the order window in the app.
- Exceptions: Individual locations can differ, so verify yours.
To check hours, open Walmart’s store finder, search your location and look for a holiday-hours notice. If the information is unclear, call the store. If you need groceries, shop on Wednesday, November 25, though it will be busy.
Is Target Open on Thanksgiving 2026?
Target stores have been closed on Thanksgiving Day since 2020, a change the company made permanent, and most reopen on Black Friday.
- Store status: Expect closed, but verify the 2026 schedule.
- Holiday policy: Target has said it will no longer open on Thanksgiving, so a reversal is unlikely.
- Pharmacy and clinic: Both usually follow store hours, so expect closures.
- Online ordering: You can usually still place orders, but delivery and pickup may not be available that day.
- Local hours: Black Friday opening times vary by store.
Is Costco Open on Thanksgiving 2026?
Costco warehouses are typically closed on Thanksgiving Day.
- Warehouse status: Closed, based on the company’s long-standing holiday schedule.
- Gas stations: Costco gas stations generally follow warehouse hours, so don’t count on them being open.
- Online shopping: You can usually order online, but delivery timing may be affected.
- Holiday schedule: Costco posts holiday closures on its website, so check there for the official 2026 schedule.
Are Grocery Stores Open on Thanksgiving 2026?
Grocery schedules differ widely. Some chains close completely, some open for a few morning hours and others run most of the day. If you forgot an ingredient, a quick check can save a wasted drive.
Grocery Stores That May Have Thanksgiving Hours
Depending on location, these chains have historically offered reduced hours on Thanksgiving:
- Kroger
- Whole Foods Market
- Safeway
- Albertsons
- Wegmans
- H-E-B
- Meijer
- Food Lion
Other chains, such as Aldi and Publix, have historically closed. Never assume every location follows the chain-wide policy.
Why Grocery Store Hours Can Differ
- State and local policies: A few states restrict retail operations on certain holidays.
- Store ownership: Franchised or independently operated stores can set their own hours.
- Regional operating policies: Chains may follow different schedules in different regions.
- Holiday staffing: Stores may close early to give employees time with family.
- Pharmacy hours: The pharmacy counter often runs shorter hours than the store.
- Individual store management: Managers may adjust hours.
What Restaurants Are Open on Thanksgiving 2026?
Restaurants are among the most likely businesses to be open, but hours vary widely. If you’re searching “restaurants open Thanksgiving near me,” start with the restaurant’s own website or Google listing.
Fast-Food Restaurants
Many fast-food locations open, often with shorter hours. Franchise owners set their own holiday schedules, so one location may be open while the next one down the road is closed.
Casual Dining Restaurants
Some casual dining chains serve Thanksgiving menus or run normal service, while others close. Reservations are often required and can fill up weeks ahead.
Hotel Restaurants
Hotels often serve guests on holidays and may offer special Thanksgiving buffets. Many accept non-guests, but call to confirm.
24-Hour Restaurants and Diners
Some 24-hour spots stay open on Thanksgiving, though others adjust hours. Don’t rely on a sign that says “open 24 hours” without checking.
Local Restaurants
Independent restaurants can have completely different schedules. Some close, some offer special menus and others take only reservations. Don’t assume a restaurant is open just because it’s usually open on a Thursday.
Are Pharmacies Open on Thanksgiving 2026?
Pharmacy availability depends on the type of pharmacy:
- CVS: Many locations stay open with modified hours, and pharmacy hours may differ from store hours.
- Walgreens: Many locations close or run limited hours, so check your local store.
- Rite Aid: Where locations remain in operation, hours vary.
- Grocery-store pharmacies: These often follow the store, and some close even when the store is open.
- Independent pharmacies: Many close for the holiday, though some post emergency contact information.
Pharmacy vs Store Hours
A store can be open while its pharmacy counter has shorter hours or is closed entirely. Always check the pharmacy listing, not the general store hours.
What to Do If You Need Medicine on Thanksgiving
- Check the pharmacy’s official location page for holiday hours.
- Call ahead to confirm.
- Ask whether a refill can be picked up before the holiday.
- Contact an appropriate healthcare service for urgent needs.
For a medical emergency, call 911 or use local emergency services rather than relying on a retail pharmacy.
Are Gas Stations Open on Thanksgiving?
Many gas stations operate on Thanksgiving, but hours and staffing vary. That includes:
- Gas stations attached to convenience stores
- Standalone convenience stores
- Truck stops, which commonly stay open
- 24-hour locations along highways
Fuel should be available in most areas, but plan your route. If you’re driving long distances, fill up before Wednesday night.
Are Gas Stations Open 24 Hours on Thanksgiving?
Some are, but 24-hour operation is location-specific. A station that is usually open around the clock may close or reduce hours for the holiday. Warehouse-club and big-box stations often follow store closures.
Is USPS Open on Thanksgiving 2026?
No. USPS observes Thanksgiving as a federal holiday, so regular retail and mail delivery do not operate on Thursday, November 26, 2026.
Is the Post Office Open on Thanksgiving?
- Retail counters: Closed.
- Regular mail delivery: No regular delivery.
- Priority and Express services: Check the official holiday schedule for any exceptions.
- Package delivery: Normally not delivered, though service details can change.
- PO boxes: Lobby access may vary by location.
- Self-service kiosks: Availability depends on whether the lobby is open.
Confirm details on the official USPS holiday schedule before you mail anything time-sensitive.
Are FedEx and UPS Open on Thanksgiving 2026?
| Service | Thanksgiving Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| USPS | Closed | Federal holiday schedule |
| UPS | Verify 2026 schedule | Holiday service changes |
| FedEx | Verify 2026 schedule | Service-specific exceptions |
| Amazon | Verify | Delivery schedules vary |
| Local couriers | Varies | Check provider |
UPS and FedEx typically limit or suspend standard pickups and deliveries on Thanksgiving, with exceptions for certain express services. Because holiday service changes, check each carrier’s site, especially if a delivery is time-sensitive.
Are Government Offices Open on Thanksgiving?
No. Thanksgiving is a U.S. federal holiday, so most government offices are closed. For background on how holidays like this are designated, see the list of federal holidays on Wikipedia.
- Federal offices: Closed.
- State offices: Generally closed, with some state-specific holiday schedules.
- Local government offices: Typically closed.
- Courts: Closed.
- Libraries: Usually closed.
- Public services: Essential services such as emergency response continue.
Is the DMV Open on Thanksgiving?
Almost certainly not. Most DMVs close on Thanksgiving, though schedules are set by each state, so check your state’s DMV site for the exact closure days. Many also close the day after.
Are Schools Open on Thanksgiving 2026?
Schools generally don’t hold regular classes on Thanksgiving Day, but calendars are set by districts and states. That covers public schools, private schools and colleges. Many schools also close for several days around the holiday, but the exact break varies, so check your district’s calendar.
Are Hospitals and Emergency Services Open on Thanksgiving?
Essential services operate even when most offices close.
Hospitals
Emergency departments generally operate around the clock, including on Thanksgiving.
911 and Emergency Services
911 and emergency services remain available.
Urgent Care
Hours vary considerably. Some centers close, and others run shortened hours, so check ahead.
Non-Emergency Medical Offices
Many are closed. If you need routine care, plan around the holiday.
For a medical emergency, use local emergency services rather than waiting for a retail pharmacy, urgent-care center or doctor’s office to reopen.
Are Airports Open on Thanksgiving?
Yes, airports generally operate on Thanksgiving, though conditions vary:
- Airline schedules vary, and some routes run fewer flights.
- Security checkpoints operate according to each airport’s schedule.
- Airport restaurants and shops may have reduced hours.
- Public transportation to the airport may use holiday schedules.
Should You Arrive Early at the Airport on Thanksgiving?
Thanksgiving week is one of the busiest travel periods of the year, so leaving extra time is wise. Check your airline’s recommended arrival time, watch your flight status and allow for traffic and parking delays rather than counting on a single universal rule.
Is Public Transportation Running on Thanksgiving?
Most systems run, but usually on holiday schedules rather than normal weekday service:
- Buses: Often reduced service.
- Subway and metro: Commonly holiday or weekend schedules.
- Commuter rail: May run limited trains.
- Amtrak: Operates, but check your route for adjustments.
- Local transit: Varies by city.
Check your local agency’s website or app the day before.
What Is Closed on Thanksgiving 2026?
Commonly Closed
- Federal government offices
- Many banks and branches
- USPS retail locations
- Many major retailers
- Many schools
- Many corporate offices
- Some restaurants and local businesses
Commonly Open or Operating
- Emergency services
- Hospitals
- Many gas stations
- Many convenience stores
- Some restaurants
- Some pharmacies
- Airports
- Some grocery stores
There are always location-specific exceptions, so check local information before you go.
Thanksgiving 2026 Store Hours Checklist
☐ Check grocery-store hours
☐ Check pharmacy hours
☐ Check restaurant hours
☐ Confirm bank availability
☐ Check USPS/UPS/FedEx schedules
☐ Check gas station hours
☐ Check public transportation
☐ Check airport/airline schedule
☐ Confirm local store holiday hours
☐ Complete essential shopping before Thanksgiving
How to Check if a Store Is Open on Thanksgiving
- Visit the company’s official website.
- Search for the specific store or location.
- Check the holiday-hours notice.
- Call the location if the information is unclear.
Holiday hours can change even after a general corporate announcement, which is why checking your specific location matters.
Thanksgiving 2026 Shopping Tips
Shop Early
Finish major grocery shopping by Tuesday or Wednesday, November 24 or 25. Crowds peak the day before the holiday. If you’re still planning the menu, our Thanksgiving dinner ideas can help you build a list.
Don’t Assume Normal Hours
A store’s regular schedule rarely applies on Thanksgiving.
Check Pharmacy Hours Separately
Pick up any prescriptions before the holiday.
Confirm Pickup and Delivery Windows
Order slots often sell out or aren’t offered on the holiday itself.
Have a Backup Store
If your first choice is closed, know where else to go.
Check Holiday Hours Before Driving
A one-minute search can save a wasted trip. If you plan to shop the sales afterward, see our Black Friday 2026 guide and Cyber Monday 2026 guide.
Thanksgiving 2026 Quick Facts
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| When is Thanksgiving 2026? | Thursday, November 26 |
| Is Thanksgiving a federal holiday? | Yes |
| Are banks open? | Generally no; branch and service exceptions should be checked |
| Is USPS open? | Generally no for regular holiday operations |
| Are grocery stores open? | Depends on chain and location |
| Is Walmart open? | Verify its official 2026 holiday schedule |
| Are restaurants open? | Many may be, but hours vary |
| Are pharmacies open? | Some are, with location-specific hours |
| Are gas stations open? | Many operate, but hours vary |
| Are hospitals open? | Emergency services operate |
Frequently Asked Questions
What is open on Thanksgiving 2026?
On Thanksgiving Day, November 26, 2026, many banks, government offices and major retailers are closed. Some grocery stores, restaurants, pharmacies, gas stations and convenience stores may remain open, but holiday hours vary by company and location.
What stores are open on Thanksgiving?
Many big-box retailers close, while some grocery stores, convenience stores, dollar stores and pharmacies may open with reduced hours. Check your local store.
Are banks open Thanksgiving?
Generally no. Thanksgiving is a Federal Reserve holiday, and most branches close. ATMs and online banking typically remain available.
Is Walmart open on Thanksgiving 2026?
Walmart has been closed on Thanksgiving in recent years, so expect the same, but verify on its official site.
Is Target open on Thanksgiving?
Target has kept stores closed on Thanksgiving since 2020 and made the change permanent.
Is Costco open on Thanksgiving?
Costco warehouses are typically closed on Thanksgiving.
Are grocery stores open on Thanksgiving?
Some are, with reduced hours. Others, such as Aldi and Publix, have historically closed. Check your specific store.
Are restaurants open on Thanksgiving?
Many are, often with limited hours or special menus. Confirm before you go.
Are pharmacies open on Thanksgiving?
Some are, with location-specific hours. Many close, so check the pharmacy’s listing.
Is USPS open on Thanksgiving?
No. Regular retail and mail delivery are closed for the federal holiday.
Are gas stations open on Thanksgiving?
Many are, though hours vary by location.
Are hospitals open on Thanksgiving?
Yes, emergency departments operate around the clock.
Is the DMV open on Thanksgiving?
Almost always no, since it is a federal holiday. Check your state’s schedule.
Are schools open on Thanksgiving?
Generally no, but calendars vary by district and state.
Is Thanksgiving a federal holiday?
Yes. It is observed on the fourth Thursday of November, and you can read more about its background on Wikipedia.
Thanksgiving 2026 Countdown
Thanksgiving 2026 is Thursday, November 26. As of October 7, 2026, it is 50 days away. Use that time to finish grocery shopping, prescription refills and other errands before holiday closures begin. For greetings to share with family, visit our Thanksgiving wishes page.
Conclusion
Many banks, government offices and major retailers are closed on Thanksgiving Day, while restaurants, grocery stores, pharmacies, gas stations and other services may operate with reduced or location-specific hours. Because Thanksgiving schedules can vary by store and city, always check the official location information before heading out.