Walmart Thanksgiving Hours 2025: Complete Store Closure

Walmart Confirms Complete Thanksgiving Day Closure for 2025

In a significant shift from past practices, Walmart has officially announced that all its stores will be closed on Thanksgiving Day 2025. This marks the first time in recent history that the retail giant will completely shut down operations during the holiday, signaling a major change in American shopping traditions.

"We're honoring Thanksgiving by giving our associates a well-deserved day to spend with their families," said a Walmart spokesperson in a recent statement.

Why the Full Closure?

This decision reflects Walmart's evolving approach to holidays, prioritizing employee well-being over Black Friday preparation. Recent reports indicate the closure stems from:

Employee advocacy for guaranteed holiday rest
Reducing operational costs during traditionally low-traffic periods
Aligning with competitors like Target and Costco who previously closed

While Black Friday sales will still commence as scheduled on Friday, November 28, the Thanksgiving closure eliminates the controversial "doorbuster" events that previously started on Thursday.

Impact on Shoppers

For consumers expecting last-minute Thanksgiving essentials, this closure requires planning. Key affected items include:

Perishable groceries (turkey, sides, desserts)
Emergency household supplies
Pharmacy medications

Walmart recommends purchasing these items by Wednesday evening or utilizing its same-day grocery delivery service for last-minute needs.

Historical Context

For over a decade, Walmart maintained abbreviated Thanksgiving hours (typically 6 PM-1 AM) to kickstart Black Friday sales. This move creates a significant precedent as other retailers may follow suit, potentially transforming holiday retail landscapes nationwide.

"This could be the beginning of the end for Thanksgiving shopping," commented retail analyst Jennifer Martinez. "Consumer expectations are shifting toward family time over bargain hunting."

Alternative Shopping Options

While Walmart will be closed, some stores may still operate with limited hours:

Gas stations with convenience stores
Pharmacies (24-hour locations)
Specific grocery chains (check individual locations)

Always verify hours directly with stores via Walmart's website or app before visiting.

The Future of Holiday Retail

Walmart's closure may signal a broader industry trend toward respecting holidays. As employee welfare gains prominence in corporate policies, consumers might experience fewer "open on Thanksgiving" options in coming years.

For the latest updates, monitor Walmart's official holiday schedule page or sign up for location-specific alerts through the Walmart mobile app.