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What restaurants & stores are open on Thanksgiving 2023

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Tired of turkey? Anti-traditionalists have options this Thanksgiving.

In some parts of the country, Thanksgiving Day will be almost business as usual, with a bevy of stores, fast food joints, coffee shops and sit-down eateries deciding to remain open for at least part of the holiday — along with supermarkets and pharmacies for those essential last-minute purchases.

Of course, it’s always best to double-check with your local outlets for specific hours and special terms, but here’s a look at the national chains that say they’ll be open this Thursday.

Will McDonald’s be open on Thanksgiving? How about other fast food chains?

The answer is yes. And so will other major fast food chains like Burger King, Wendy’s, Taco Bell, Jack in the Box, Hardee’s and Popeyes, Fox Business reports.

Boston Market will also be open with special catering options available as well.

Restaurants like McDonalds will be open on Thanksgiving. Getty Images

For those who need a quick pick-me-up or something sweet on turkey day, Starbucks, Dunkin’ and Krispy Kreme all say they’ll be open — once again, check your app for specific location hours. Krispy Kremes will close at 2 p.m. local time.

Those looking for coffee can find it at both Starbucks and Dunkin’ stores on Thursday, but it is best to check their apps for exact times. Krispy Kreme locations will close at 2 p.m. local time on Nov. 23. 

Pizza chains Domino’s, Papa John’s, Pizza Hut, and Little Ceasars are also operational on Thanksgiving.

  • Burger King
  • McDonald’s
  • Wendy’s
  • Taco Bell
  • Jack in the Box
  • Hardee’s
  • Popeyes
  • Boston Market
  • Starbucks
  • Dunkin’
  • Krispy Kreme
  • Domino’s
  • Papa John’s
  • Pizza Hut
  • Little Ceasars

Cracker Barrel is one of the sit-down restaurants open on Thanksgiving. What are some others?

Cracker Barrel is slated to be open on Thanksgiving. Universal Images Group via Getty

Perhaps cooking isn’t your forte? Not to worry as plenty of places can give you that homestyle feel on Thanksgiving. The closest option to a traditional feast comes from the open Cracker Barrel, which will have normal hours along with catering meals to go.

For those looking for a breakfast before the big meal, parade yourself to IHOP and Denny’s on Thanksgiving morning or pickup a pre-made feast to bring home as well. Golden Corral also offers holiday catering for 6 to 8 people, but orders must be placed three days in advance. Its restaurants are also open from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Applebee’s, Buffalo Wild Wings, Red Lobster, Ruby Tuesdays, T.G.I. Friday’s and Waffle House should also be open.

  • Cracker Barrel
  • IHOP
  • Denny’s
  • Golden Corral

  • Waffle House
  • Applebee’s
  • Buffalo Wild Wings
  • Red Lobster
  • Ruby Tuesdays
  • T.G.I. Friday’s

Will Wegmans be open on Thanksgiving?

Krispy Kreme is going to be open this Thanksgiving if you need a quick dessert for your party. Stephen Yang

Most grocery stores and pharmacies tend to open for at least the morning on Thanksgiving Day, as Americans rush around town doing their last-minute errands before the big dinner.

Dollar General will be up and running from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. local time, Wegmans will close at 4 p.m. local time and Whole Foods is also open on Thanksgiving with modified hours per branch.

Most CVS stores are also slated to be open too.

And don’t forget — in some cases, you’ll be able to get a jump on those Black Friday deals, if you’re ready to start shopping. Big Lots, for example, will remain open Thanksgiving Day from 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. and will be doing a 50% off toys deal, ABC7 reported.

Walmart and Target, however, will be closed for the entire day, allowing employees to stay home with their families.

  • Wegmans
  • Dollar General
  • Whole Foods
  • Big Lots

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Jenniffer Sheldon

Update: 2024-05-18