Thanksgiving Day 2016: What’s Open, Closed? Stores, Banks, Post Offices, Grocery Stores And More

Everyone observes their own Thanksgiving traditions. Whether it’s gathering with the family to cook all day, lounging around the house or heading out to dinner, many choose to celebrate the holiday by staying in or hitting the town. For those that plan on getting out this year, it could be smart to plan ahead for which public places are open, closed or observe holiday hours.

Federal/State Government Offices: All federal and state government buildings will be closed for the federal holiday.

Banks: While it’s always best to look into your bank’s holiday hours, all major banks will be closed on Thanksgiving. Plan ahead, or, take care of any banking needs you might need to attend to through your mobile or online banking service (if applicable).

Grocery Stores: Knowing what grocery store locations will be open could make or break a Thanksgiving meal. Many will be open but will operate on holiday hours. Hours will depend on the store location if it’s a major chain. Costco will be closed on Thanksgiving, while Safeway will be open, though hours will vary depending on the store location. Whole Foods will be open but locations may close in the early afternoon.

Retail: Because Black Friday takes place the day after Thanksgiving, many stores stay open on Thanksgiving Day. Some are even open all night between Thursday and Friday. Stores like Best Buy, JCPenney, Sears and Target will be open (holiday hours apply, so check your local store first). Some stores, like Nordstrom, Marshalls, Crate & Barrel and REI, are closed.

Post Offices: Post offices adhere to the same federal holiday schedules, which means that they will be closed on Thanksgiving Day. FedEx locations will also be closed and will resume with some modified service on Friday.

Restaurants: Most restaurants will be open Thanksgiving, and some even promote special Thanksgiving dinners or brunch menus. Once again, holiday hours could apply. In New York City, The Regency Bar & Grill will be open from 7 a.m. until midnight and Vandal will be open from noon until 10 p.m., according to Time Out New York. In Washington D.C., restaurants like 703 Bar + Kitchen will offer Thanksgiving buffets from 11:30 a.m. until 3:30 p.m. and again from 4 p.m. until 11 p.m. In Chicago, restaurants like Carmine’s and Chef’s Station will offer special Thanksgiving meal options, as well, according to Open Table.

Libraries/Schools: Schools will be out for Thanksgiving Day (you’d hear otherwise from a child). Public libraries are typically closed on Thanksgiving Day as well, so return your books ahead of time.