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Is Walmart Open on Thanksgiving 2025? Store & Black Friday Hours Explained
When it comes to last-minute meal prep, stocking up on essentials, or embarking on some early holiday shopping, Walmart is a go-to destination for millions of Americans. With the busy holiday season fast approaching, a critical question surfaces: Is Walmart open on Thanksgiving Day 2025? Below, discover the official holiday schedule for Walmart, detailed Black Friday shopping times, and expert advice to help you plan your shopping experience efficiently during one of the most anticipated retail windows of the year.
Walmart Thanksgiving 2025 Store Hours
In a tradition that has become the norm since 2020, Walmart stores across the United States will be closed on Thanksgiving Day—Thursday, November 27th, 2025. This policy prioritizes the well-being of both Walmart associates and customers during the holiday season, allowing employees valuable time with their families.
- Thanksgiving Day 2025 (Nov 27): All Walmart stores nationwide will be closed.
- This closure includes all Walmart Supercenters, Walmart Neighborhood Markets, and associated locations.
Walmart U.S. CEO John Furner called Thanksgiving opening “a thing of the past,” signaling Walmart’s continued dedication to recognizing the importance of the holiday for employees.
Walmart’s Official Holiday Hours 2025
While Thanksgiving is the rare major closure, Walmart maintains an extensive holiday schedule for the remainder of the season. Below is a summary table of Walmart’s most up-to-date hours for major U.S. holidays in 2025:
| Holiday | Date | Walmart Hours |
|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | Wednesday, Jan 1 | 6 a.m. – 11 p.m. |
| Easter Sunday | Sunday, Apr 20 | 6 a.m. – 11 p.m. |
| Independence Day | Friday, Jul 4 | 6 a.m. – 11 p.m. |
| Thanksgiving Day | Thursday, Nov 27 | Closed |
| Black Friday | Friday, Nov 28 | See details below |
| Christmas Eve | Wednesday, Dec 24 | 6 a.m. – 6 p.m. |
| Christmas Day | Thursday, Dec 25 | Closed |
Walmart Black Friday 2025: Opening Hours and Shopping Guide
While Walmart shuts its doors completely on Thanksgiving Day, it more than makes up for it with one of the nation’s most eagerly awaited Black Friday events. Here’s what to expect for 2025:
- In-store Black Friday Opening: Friday, November 28th, 2025, at 6 a.m. local time for most locations.
- Black Friday online deals at Walmart.com typically begin at midnight Eastern Time (check Walmart’s digital platforms for official start times).
- Individual Walmart stores may adjust opening hours slightly based on local ordinances or special circumstances—always check your local store’s schedule with the Walmart Store Finder or Walmart app.
For optimal savings, consider scouting Walmart’s pre-Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals, which often extend the discount window beyond Black Friday’s in-store rush.
Why Has Walmart Stopped Opening on Thanksgiving?
Walmart has closed on Thanksgiving each year since 2020. This operational change was introduced in response to both pandemic-era adjustments and an ongoing shift toward supporting employees’ well-being and family time. The decision quickly became permanent after positive public reaction and the recognition of the importance of the holiday break for retail workers.
- This closure is now standard for all major Walmart locations, regardless of region.
- The closure includes both Supercenters and Neighborhood Markets.
- Walmart joins other major retailers such as Target and Costco in remaining closed nationwide on Thanksgiving.
This trend highlights a growing industry emphasis on supporting front-line employees during traditional family holidays.
Walmart Hours for the Rest of the Holiday Season
Outside of Thanksgiving and Christmas Day closures, Walmart generally operates under its regular schedule, which for most stores is:
- Monday–Sunday: 6 a.m. – 11 p.m.
Exceptions include:
- Christmas Eve: Stores typically close early, around 6 p.m.
- New Year’s Eve and other major holidays: Most stores follow regular hours but can occasionally close earlier—always verify through the Store Finder feature.
Specialty Hours at Your Local Walmart
- Sensory-Friendly Hours: Many Walmart locations offer “sensory-friendly” hours (usually 8 a.m. – 10 a.m. daily) designed for a quieter, calmer shopping experience.
- Service Departments: Pharmacy, optical, and pickup services may have hours that differ from general store hours, especially around holidays. Always confirm in advance.
How to Check Your Store’s Hours
Given that some locations may have minor changes or special events, it’s always best to:
- Visit Walmart.com’s Store Finder to check up-to-date hours for your local store.
- Use the Walmart app for live updates, store maps, and service-specific information.
- Contact your local Walmart directly if you have unique questions or requirements regarding store hours, returns, or special orders.
Walmart Holiday Shopping Tips for 2025
- Plan ahead for Thanksgiving: With stores closed, be sure to get all food, decor, and essentials by Wednesday, November 26th.
- Leverage online shopping: Walmart.com is open 24/7—a great way to snag Black Friday deals even while stores are closed.
- Expect high demand for Black Friday doorbusters; arrive early on Friday morning for the best selection in-store.
- Check pharmacy and pickup hours: Service-specific schedules may differ from general store hours during the holidays.
- Use Walmart’s mobile app to manage shopping lists, track orders, and find the fastest routes within your local store.
Other Major Retailers: Thanksgiving Day Closures
Walmart is not alone in observing Thanksgiving Day with a full closure. Retailers who have also adopted this practice in recent years include:
- Target
- Costco
- Best Buy
- Kohl’s
- Home Depot
- Lowe’s
This industry-wide trend enables millions of retail associates to unwind and celebrate the holiday with loved ones.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Walmart Thanksgiving & Holiday Hours
Q: Is Walmart open on Thanksgiving Day 2025?
A: No, all Walmart stores are closed nationwide on Thanksgiving Day, November 27, 2025.
Q: What time does Walmart open on Black Friday 2025?
A: Most Walmart stores will reopen for Black Friday at 6 a.m. local time on Friday, November 28, 2025. Online Black Friday deals may start at midnight ET via Walmart.com.
Q: How can I verify my local Walmart’s holiday hours?
A: Use the Walmart Store Finder online or the Walmart mobile app for the latest location-specific updates on store and department hours.
Q: What are Walmart’s typical operating hours when open?
A: In most locations, Walmart operates daily from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., except for holidays when special hours or closures apply.
Q: Does Walmart offer sensory-friendly or special shopping times?
A: Yes, many Walmart locations offer sensory-friendly hours, often daily from 8 a.m. to 10 a.m., for a quieter shopping environment. Check the store’s schedule or call ahead for details.
Q: Are Walmart Pharmacy and Pickup open during all store hours?
A: Pharmacy, Pickup, Vision, and other specialty services can have different hours from the main store, particularly during holidays. Always check your store’s schedule before visiting.
Q: Are other major retailers closed on Thanksgiving?
A: Yes. In recent years, leading retailers like Target, Costco, Best Buy, and others have also closed on Thanksgiving Day to support their employees’ time off.
Key Takeaways for Thanksgiving and Black Friday Planning
- Walmart is closed on Thanksgiving Day 2025—plan food and essentials shopping by Wednesday night.
- Black Friday shopping begins at 6 a.m. on Friday, November 28th for most locations; online deals often start at midnight ET.
- Walmart is open every other day around the holidays, with most stores following the 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. standard schedule.
- Always check your nearest location for any variations in hours or special services.
How to Contact Walmart for More Information
- Use the Walmart Store Finder on the official website.
- Download and utilize the Walmart app for on-the-go shopping, store navigation, and up-to-date store hours.
- Call your local Walmart for personalized service and schedule confirmation.
This guide will keep you fully prepared for Walmart’s Thanksgiving and Black Friday schedule in 2025. Shop smart, plan ahead, and enjoy your holiday celebrations with ease.
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