Thanksgiving and Black Friday have become synonymous with holiday shopping for many Americans, marking the beginning of the festive shopping season. This year, as Thanksgiving approaches on November 28, 2024, consumers across the nation are preparing not just for turkey and cranberry sauce, but also for significant savings on Black Friday. A common question arises: what stores will be open on Thanksgiving Day, and what about their hours for Black Friday?
For the fifth consecutive year, many major retailers have chosen to close their doors on Thanksgiving, making it possible for employees to spend the day with their families. This policy started largely due to feedback from both customers and employees during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. Walmart, for example, confirmed it will remain closed this Thanksgiving, with CEO John Furner expressing the company's commitment to honoring their workers by allowing them this time off.
Walmart's decision has changed the traditional shopping patterns, prompting consumers to adjust their plans. After all, this has long been one of the top destinations for shoppers seeking those Black Friday deals. While Walmart will close on November 28, it will reopen bright and early on Black Friday, November 29, at 6 AM local time and remain open until 11 PM. The same hours will apply on subsequent Saturdays leading up to Christmas, with slight adjustments on Christmas Eve when the stores will close early at 6 PM.
Other notable retailers also opting to keep their doors shut this Thanksgiving include Target, Costco, Home Depot, and Kohl's. Kohl's will follow suit, closing on Thanksgiving but opening early on Black Friday at 5 AM. Shoppers at Kohl’s can expect significant discounts on over 124,000 items throughout the day.
Interestingly enough, not all businesses are taking part in the holiday closure. Pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens will be open on Thanksgiving, though hours may vary by location. For those scrambling for last-minute supplies—think of picking up more gravy or last-minute ingredients for dinner—stores like Walgreens will be available, but it would be wise to check individual store hours beforehand.
The trend of retail closing on Thanksgiving reflects not just corporate policy adjustments but also changing consumer sentiments. Many shoppers appreciate the opportunity for their local cashiers and shelf-stockers to enjoy time with their families, even as they may miss the chance to hunt for early deals. The adjustments on Thanksgiving have led to more emphasis on Black Friday deals and the Consumer's shopping patterns shifting to pre-Thanksgiving sales.
Walgreens plans to keep its pharmacies open on Thanksgiving, but shoppers are advised to check with local stores as the hours can vary significantly by location. Similarly, Dollar General will offer its services throughout Thanksgiving, stocking shelves for those who need last-minute essentials, opening its doors at 7 AM and closing at 10 PM.
The importance of knowing which businesses are open can’t be overstated. Many folks find themselves out of unexpected items on Thanksgiving Day, whether it’s buttery rolls or simply more ice cream for dessert. So, for anyone planning last-minute shopping, being aware of Thanksgiving store hours can act as peace of mind, as it limits last-minute scrambles to get the necessary items.
Residents of Lafayette, Louisiana, for example, have specific stores to keep their eyes on during the holiday timeframe. Albertsons will be open for limited hours on Thanksgiving, typically closing around 3 PM. Local favorites like Target and Walmart will be closed entirely, so late-night runs for any last-minute gathering supplies should be scheduled for Wednesday, November 27.
Reflecting the broader national trend, the adjustment involves many renowned stores across the US also choosing to keep their doors closed. The trend includes major retailers like Best Buy, JCPenney, and even popular chains like Trader Joe’s. These closures highlight the changing ways consumers are viewing holiday shopping. With retail giants making these shifts, shoppers have started to alter their plans, often preparing to tackle Black Friday with both fervor and strategy.
Looking forward to Black Friday itself, shoppers can expect extended hours with many stores. Walmart, as mentioned, opens at 6 AM on November 29, but other retailers are jumping on the train of early openings. Best Buy is another store encouraging early-bird specials and discounts, especially for tech enthusiasts eager to grab new toys and gadgets. Shoppers can look for deals on kitchen items, electronics, toys, and fashion during this early shopping extravaganza.
For those who prefer online sales, Cyber Monday follows closely behind the retail excitement of Black Friday. Extensive online promotions from Walmart and other competitors like Amazon add another layer of savings, with online deals distilling from the Thursday before up until culminating on Cyber Monday.
With each passing year, the pattern for Thanksgiving and Black Friday shopping evolves. While the closure of major retailers like Walmart, Target, and Kohl’s points toward more family-oriented focus during the holiday, it's coupled with the opportunity for consumers to strategize shopping trips effectively. With available information on who’s open and when, preparations can also play out smoother for friends and family gatherings this Thanksgiving.
So, as families plan their Thanksgiving feasts and prepare for the frenzy of Black Friday sales, keep this guide handy. Knowing which stores are open and what they are offering will help consumers navigate their shopping efficiently, ensuring they have all the necessary items for both Thanksgiving dinners and Black Friday deals.