Written by Swikblog Research Team
Updated: November 27, 2025
LIVE UPDATE: Searches for “what stores are open today” and “is Walmart open on Thanksgiving” are surging across the U.S. as Americans look for last-minute grocery runs, pharmacy visits, and emergency holiday shopping.
Thanksgiving Day in the U.S. has arrived — and millions are opening their phones asking the same urgent question: What stores are open today? While many retailers shut their doors for the holiday, some grocery chains, drugstores, and convenience stores remain open — though often with reduced hours.
According to reporting by USA Today, major chains like Walmart, Target, and Costco have widely closed their doors nationwide, continuing a recent shift in retail culture prioritizing employee time off on Thanksgiving.
A separate confirmation by Axios shows pharmacies and essential retailers remain the most likely to stay open, helping thousands access medication, groceries, and basic supplies.
🛒 Stores Open on Thanksgiving 2025 (Updated)
| Store | Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Walmart | Closed | Most locations nationwide |
| Target | Closed | Companywide closure |
| Costco | Closed | No locations open |
| Walgreens | Open (Limited) | Select locations and pharmacies |
| CVS | Open | Hours may vary |
| Publix | Closed | Most locations closed |
| Kroger | Limited Hours | Morning only in many areas |
| Wegmans | Limited Hours | State-dependent |
| Winn-Dixie | Open Early | Local schedules apply |
| Wawa | Open | Most 24-hour stores operate |
🏪 Why So Many Stores Are Closed This Year
Retailers across the U.S. have gradually moved away from Thanksgiving openings after years of backlash from workers and shoppers alike. Companies have learned that opening on Thanksgiving actually generates limited financial return while damaging public goodwill.
Walmart, Target and Costco now rely on Black Friday and Cyber Monday — not Thanksgiving — for peak revenue, shifting the holiday back toward family and rest instead of consumer frenzy.
✅ Before You Go Out
- Check Google Maps for live hours.
- Call the store directly when possible.
- Verify pharmacy hours separately.
- Expect reduced staff and early closures.
If you’re still searching for basics like milk, ice, batteries, or medicine — pharmacies and gas stations are your safest bet today.
Related reading: How major events disrupt store schedules globally.
