Many major grocery chains are open on Thanksgiving, but usually with reduced hours that vary by location.
Common chains open
These big grocery chains are generally open on Thanksgiving (check your local store’s hours):
- Albertsons and ACME Markets (often limited daytime hours).
- Kroger and its banners (like Ralphs, some Food 4 Less locations), usually with shortened hours that differ by store.
- Food Lion and Giant Food, typically open part of the day.
- Safeway, Meijer, and some regional markets such as Fresh Thyme or Holiday Market, often open with modified schedules.
- Wegmans and Whole Foods Market, usually open in the morning through early afternoon.
Many convenience-focused chains (for example, some 7‑Eleven locations) and some regional grocers also stay open, but policies can differ even within the same chain.
Chains usually closed
A number of big-name stores close completely on Thanksgiving, so you generally cannot rely on them for groceries that day:
- Walmart, Target, Costco, Sam’s Club, BJ’s Wholesale Club.
- Aldi, Lidl, Publix, Trader Joe’s, Winn‑Dixie, many regional specialty markets.
Some pharmacies and dollar stores (for example, certain CVS, Dollar General, Family Dollar locations) may be open with special hours, but they may not have full grocery selections.
How to find what’s open near you
Because hours and open/closed status can vary by city and even by individual store, the best way to confirm is:
- Search “[store name] near me” and check the holiday hours listed on the official store page or map listing.
- Call the store directly the day before Thanksgiving or early that morning; many locations post a recorded message with special holiday hours.
If you tell which city you are in, a more tailored list of likely open chains in your area can be provided.
