Walmart Thanksgiving 2025: Store Hours, Closures, and What Shoppers Should Expect

As the holiday season approaches, one of the most common questions for U.S. shoppers is: Will Walmart be open on Thanksgiving Day? For 2025, the answer is straightforward: Walmart stores will be closed on Thanksgiving Day, November 27. This decision continues a recent trend where major retailers close their doors to allow employees time off with their families and to prepare for the highly anticipated Black Friday sales.

Why Is Walmart Closed on Thanksgiving?

Walmart, America’s largest retailer, used to be the go-to destination for last-minute Thanksgiving supplies. However, in recent years, the company has shifted policies to support employee wellness and foster a better work-life balance. Walmart’s U.S. CEO John Furner affirmed that Thanksgiving closure is not just a one-time event but is now an ongoing tradition: “It’s a thing of the past,” said Furner. As of 2025, you should expect all Walmart stores nationwide to be closed on Thanksgiving Day.

2025 Walmart Holiday Schedule: At a Glance

For most holidays, Walmart stores remain open with regular operating hours (6 a.m. to 11 p.m.), except on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day, when all locations close.

Will Walmart Be Open on Thanksgiving Day 2025?

For those planning last-minute grocery runs or urgent purchases: All Walmart stores across the U.S. will be closed on Thanksgiving Day. This marks a major shift from pre-pandemic years when stores remained open and Black Friday sales sometimes started on Thursday evening.

Walmart’s closure means you’ll need to shop ahead, ensuring you have all your holiday essentials before the big day.

What About Online Shopping?

While physical Walmart stores are closed, Walmart.com remains open 24/7. Shoppers can browse, purchase, and schedule pickup or delivery for after Thanksgiving. However, keep in mind that same-day pickup and rapid delivery slots may not be available on Thanksgiving.

• Place your order early: If you need groceries or gifts, complete online orders before Thanksgiving morning to secure preferred delivery or pickup times.
• Watch for online Black Friday deals: Walmart often launches early online sales, letting you snag deals before stores reopen.

Walmart’s Thanksgiving Closure: The Bigger Picture

Walmart’s closure on Thanksgiving reflects broader changes in U.S. retail culture. Once, stores competed to open earliest and launch holiday sales. Post-2020, many major chains began closing for Thanksgiving, giving employees a break and shifting focus to an even bigger Black Friday event.

• Walmart joins other retailers: Target, Best Buy, Aldi, and many others also remain closed on Thanksgiving.
• The impact for shoppers: More planning is required, but families and employees benefit from uninterrupted holiday time.

Local Walmart Hours: What to Know

Outside of holidays, most Walmart Supercenters operate from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m. local time. Some locations may offer sensory-friendly hours for a calmer shopping experience. Always check your local store’s information using the Walmart Store Finder for confirmed hours, especially during holiday periods.

• Use Walmart’s Store Finder online to check local hours, services, and special programs.
• Individual stores may have different opening or closing times the day before or after major holidays.

Black Friday 2025: Walmart’s Hours and Shopping Tips

Traditionally, Walmart kicks off Black Friday sales immediately after Thanksgiving, and 2025 will be no exception. Expect doors to open early morning, Friday, November 28. Exact opening times can vary by location, so check with your local store or visit Walmart’s official website for updates as the holiday approaches.

• Arrive early: Black Friday doorbusters are offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Look for online deals: Many Black Friday offers will also be available online; consider shopping from home to avoid crowds.
• Plan ahead: Review store maps and promotions published on Walmart’s site to streamline your in-store hunt for deals.

Popular Black Friday Categories at Walmart

Historically, Walmart’s Black Friday sales cover a wide range of products. Some of the most sought-after deals include:

• Electronics: TVs, laptops, tablets, smart devices
• Toys: Holiday favorites, learning toys, games
• Home appliances: Kitchen, cleaning, personal care products
• Fashion: Apparel, shoes, accessories
• Groceries: Special holiday meal deals, baking supplies

How to Plan Holiday Shopping with Walmart’s Closure

With Thanksgiving Day closure now regular, Walmart encourages customers to shop ahead:

• Make a shopping list early: Plan your Thanksgiving and Black Friday needs ahead of time.
• Shop in advance: Visit Walmart before November 27 to avoid running out of essentials.
• Use curbside pickup: Walmart’s online grocery and general merchandise services make pre-holiday shopping fast and easy.

Tip: Review your local Walmart’s offerings, as some locations feature additional holiday services—gift wrapping, extended hours on key dates, and unique stocking stuffers.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Is Walmart open on Thanksgiving Day 2025?

No, all Walmart stores are closed nationwide on Thanksgiving (November 27, 2025), continuing a policy change begun during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Can I shop on Walmart.com on Thanksgiving?

Yes, Walmart.com is always open for online shopping, though same-day delivery or pickup options may be limited on the holiday.

What time does Walmart open for Black Friday 2025?

Most Walmart stores open early on Black Friday (November 28, 2025). Check locally for exact opening times — typically as early as 5 or 6 a.m.

Are any Walmart stores exceptions to the Thanksgiving closure?

No, the closure is company-wide. All Walmart stores in the U.S. observe the Thanksgiving holiday.

What holiday hours should I expect for other major holidays?

With the exception of Thanksgiving and Christmas Day, most Walmart stores are open from 6 a.m. to 11 p.m., with earlier closure (6 p.m.) on Christmas Eve.

Holiday Shopping Alternatives

If you need essentials on Thanksgiving, consider nearby convenience stores, gas stations, or supermarkets that may remain open. However, it’s safest to plan ahead and buy everything you need before the holiday, given the widespread adoption of retail closures on this date.

Summary Table: Walmart Major Holidays 2025

Expert Tips for Navigating Walmart’s Thanksgiving Schedule

• Check your local store: Use Walmart’s Store Finder tool before each holiday for confirmed hours and services.
• Order online ahead of time: Beat crowds and ensure product availability for groceries and gifts.
• Sign up for alerts: Join Walmart’s email list for notifications about holiday sales and special hours.
• Download the Walmart app: Access holiday deals, order tracking, and real-time store info anytime.

Conclusion: Plan Ahead for a Stress-Free Thanksgiving and Black Friday

Walmart remains a centerpiece of the American holiday shopping tradition, even as it adapts to changing times. By closing stores on Thanksgiving Day, the retailer sets a new standard for employee care and family time. For shoppers, this means earlier planning—and perhaps an easier, less frantic holiday experience. Mark your calendar, confirm your local Walmart’s hours, and shop early for all your Thanksgiving feast and Black Friday deal needs. Happy holidays!

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Medha DebCommerce Editor

 

Medha Deb is a commerce editor with a master's degree in applied linguistics from the University of Hyderabad, which has allowed her to develop a deep understanding of language and its application in various contexts. She specializes in the areas of beauty, health, and wellness and is committed to ensuring that the content on the website is of the highest quality.

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