Thanksgiving is a time for family gatherings, delicious feasts, and—let’s be honest—last-minute runs for forgotten ingredients. Whether you need an extra jar of gravy, a bag of ice, or a replacement pie crust, the question “Is Walmart open on Thanksgiving?” is one that crosses many shoppers’ minds each year. With 2025 approaching, it’s crucial to know Walmart’s latest holiday policy, along with the hours of other major retailers like Kroger, Stop and Shop, Publix, and Jewel Osco. This guide covers everything you need to know about “walmart thanksgiving hours,” “is walmart open on thanksgiving 2025,” and the best alternatives for your holiday shopping needs.
Is Walmart Open on Thanksgiving 2025?
Let’s get straight to the core question: Is Walmart open on Thanksgiving 2025? Based on Walmart’s recent holiday traditions, the answer is almost certainly no. Since 2020, Walmart has closed all its stores on Thanksgiving Day to give employees time to celebrate with their families. This decision started as a temporary response to the COVID-19 pandemic but quickly became a permanent policy due to overwhelming positive feedback from staff and customers.
Walmart’s leadership has repeatedly emphasized that closing on Thanksgiving is a way to honor their team’s hard work throughout the year. For 2025, while official hours haven’t been announced yet, it’s safe to assume this tradition will continue. If you’re used to relying on “walmart hours thanksgiving” for last-minute shopping, you’ll need to adjust your plan: shop ahead on Thanksgiving Eve (when Walmart typically has extended hours) or explore other stores that stay open on the holiday.
Alternatives to Walmart: Stores Open on Thanksgiving
If Walmart is closed, don’t panic—there are plenty of other retailers open on Thanksgiving. Below are the most popular options from your extended keyword list, along with their typical Thanksgiving hours (and notes to check for 2025 updates).
Kroger Thanksgiving Hours 2025
Kroger is one of the best alternatives to Walmart for Thanksgiving shopping. For years, Kroger has kept its stores open on Thanksgiving Day with reduced hours. In previous years, most locations opened at 6 a.m. and closed by 4 p.m., though this can vary by region (urban stores may stay open later, while rural ones might close earlier).
For 2025, expect similar reduced hours, but always verify with your local Kroger’s website or mobile app before heading out. Kroger also offers curbside pickup and delivery services on Thanksgiving, which are perfect if you don’t want to leave the house. Whether you need a fresh turkey, canned vegetables, or festive desserts, Kroger has you covered.
Stop and Shop Thanksgiving Hours
Stop and Shop, a northeast-based grocery chain, is another reliable option for “what stores are open on thanksgiving.” In past years, Stop and Shop locations have opened at 7 a.m. and closed by 3 p.m. on Thanksgiving Day. They often stock a wide range of holiday staples, including pre-made Thanksgiving meals, fresh produce, and baked goods.
For 2025, check your local Stop and Shop’s holiday schedule in October or November. The chain may also offer special promotions leading up to Thanksgiving, so keep an eye out for discounts on turkeys and sides. If you’re short on time, Stop and Shop’s curbside pickup service lets you order online and pick up your groceries without entering the store.
Is Publix Open on Thanksgiving?
Publix is a beloved Southeast grocery chain, but is Publix open on Thanksgiving? Unfortunately, no. Publix has a long-standing policy of closing all its stores on Thanksgiving Day. This tradition dates back decades and aligns with the company’s commitment to work-life balance for its employees.
If you need Publix products for your Thanksgiving feast, plan to shop on Thanksgiving Eve (Wednesday before the holiday). Publix typically stays open late on this day (until 10 p.m. or later) to accommodate last-minute shoppers. They also offer pre-cooked Thanksgiving meals that you can pick up ahead of time—ideal for busy hosts.
Jewel Osco Thanksgiving Hours
Jewel Osco, a Midwest favorite, is a great option for shoppers looking for stores open on Thanksgiving. In previous years, Jewel Osco locations have operated with reduced hours (e.g., 6 a.m. to 4 p.m.) on Thanksgiving Day. They stock all the essentials: fresh turkeys, stuffing mixes, cranberry sauce, and more.
For 2025, confirm your local Jewel Osco’s hours via their website or app. The chain also offers curbside pickup and delivery, so you can get your groceries without leaving your car. Jewel Osco often runs holiday specials, so be sure to check their weekly ads for deals on Thanksgiving items.
Tips for Stress-Free Thanksgiving Shopping
To avoid last-minute chaos, follow these tips for your 2025 Thanksgiving shopping:
- Check store hours early: Policies can change, so verify hours on the retailer’s official website or app in November 2025.
- Shop ahead: Get most of your essentials (like turkeys and sides) a week before Thanksgiving to avoid crowds.
- Use curbside pickup: Many stores offer this service on Thanksgiving, saving you time and hassle.
- Sign up for alerts: Follow your favorite stores on social media or subscribe to their newsletters for 2025 holiday updates.
Final Thoughts
In summary, “is walmart open on thanksgiving 2025” is likely a no, but there are plenty of alternatives like Kroger, Stop and Shop, and Jewel Osco to cover your last-minute needs. Publix remains closed, so plan accordingly if you’re a fan of their products. Remember to check each store’s 2025 hours closer to the holiday, as schedules can shift. With a little planning, you’ll have all the ingredients you need for a perfect Thanksgiving feast—without the stress of searching for open stores. Happy shopping, and enjoy your holiday!