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Is Walmart Closed on Thanksgiving 2025? Unveiling the Holiday Shopping Landscape

Yes, Walmart is expected to be closed on Thanksgiving Day, November 27, 2025. This aligns with the policy Walmart implemented in 2020, a decision that has been maintained in subsequent years. This move, initially prompted by the COVID-19 pandemic, seems to have evolved into a permanent fixture of Walmart’s holiday strategy.

A Deep Dive into Walmart’s Thanksgiving Closure

Walmart’s decision to close its doors on Thanksgiving represents a significant shift in the retail landscape. For years, the holiday was synonymous with “doorbuster” deals and early-morning shopping frenzies. However, changing consumer preferences, a growing emphasis on employee well-being, and the rise of online shopping have collectively contributed to this change.

The Evolution of Thanksgiving Shopping

Historically, Thanksgiving Day was the launchpad for the crucial Black Friday shopping period. Retailers like Walmart would open their doors in the evening, drawing massive crowds eager to snag discounted items. This practice, while lucrative, also drew criticism. Employees were required to work on a holiday meant for family and rest, and the intense competition for deals often led to chaotic and even dangerous situations.

The advent of online shopping began to erode the necessity of physical store openings on Thanksgiving. Consumers could browse and purchase deals from the comfort of their homes, eliminating the need to brave the crowds. This shift, coupled with the growing awareness of employee welfare, prompted retailers to re-evaluate their Thanksgiving Day strategies.

Walmart’s Stance: People Over Profits (To a Degree)

Walmart’s decision to remain closed on Thanksgiving, while undoubtedly influenced by logistical and economic factors, is also a strategic move that resonates with the public. It signals a commitment to employee well-being, allowing associates to spend the holiday with their families. This positive PR can translate into increased customer loyalty and a more engaged workforce.

However, let’s not be naive. While Walmart closes its doors on Thanksgiving, the online store remains open. Black Friday deals will still be available, often starting earlier than ever. This allows Walmart to capture the holiday spending without the operational complexities and potential negative publicity associated with physical store openings.

The Broader Retail Trend: A Thanksgiving of Rest

Walmart’s decision reflects a broader trend in the retail industry. Many major retailers, including Target, Best Buy, and Costco, have also opted to remain closed on Thanksgiving Day. This collective action suggests a growing consensus that the benefits of opening on Thanksgiving are outweighed by the costs – both financial and reputational.

It’s important to remember that this trend isn’t universal. Some smaller retailers and grocery stores may still choose to open on Thanksgiving, catering to last-minute needs and impulse purchases. Therefore, it’s always advisable to check the specific hours of operation for the stores you plan to visit.

Preparing for Black Friday 2025

Despite the Thanksgiving closure, Black Friday remains a major shopping event. Here’s how to prepare:

Do Your Research: Browse online flyers and websites in advance to identify the deals you want.
Create a Shopping List: Focus on specific items to avoid impulse purchases.
Shop Online: Take advantage of online deals, often available starting Thanksgiving Day.
Set a Budget: Stick to your budget to avoid overspending.
Read Reviews: Check product reviews before making a purchase.
Be Aware of Return Policies: Understand the return policies of the stores you shop at.
Sign up for Email Alerts: Subscribe to retailer newsletters for exclusive deals and early access.
Compare Prices: Use price comparison tools to ensure you’re getting the best deal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Walmart and Thanksgiving 2025

Here are some frequently asked questions to further clarify Walmart’s Thanksgiving policy and related information:

Will Walmart.com be open on Thanksgiving 2025? Yes, Walmart.com will be open and offering Black Friday deals on Thanksgiving Day. You can shop online from the comfort of your home.
When will Walmart’s Black Friday 2025 deals start? While the exact timing may vary, expect Black Friday deals to begin online on Thanksgiving Day and potentially even earlier. Walmart often releases early access deals to Walmart+ members.
Will Walmart have curbside pickup on Black Friday weekend 2025? Availability of curbside pickup may vary depending on location and demand. Check the Walmart website or app for specific details closer to the date. Generally, Walmart does offer curbside pickup, but availability on heavily trafficked days like Black Friday should be confirmed.
Are all Walmart stores closed on Thanksgiving? Yes, all Walmart stores are expected to be closed on Thanksgiving Day, November 27, 2025. This includes Walmart Supercenters and smaller Walmart locations.
Will Walmart Pharmacy be open on Thanksgiving 2025? No, Walmart Pharmacies located within Walmart stores will also be closed on Thanksgiving Day. Plan ahead for any prescription refills you may need.
Will Walmart be open on Black Friday 2025? Yes, Walmart will be open on Black Friday, November 28, 2025. However, opening hours may vary by location. Check your local store’s hours closer to the date.
What time will Walmart open on Black Friday 2025? While specific times are not yet available, Walmart typically opens early on Black Friday, often as early as 5:00 AM or 6:00 AM. Check your local store’s hours closer to the date.
Does Walmart offer price matching on Black Friday? Walmart’s price matching policy on Black Friday is often limited or suspended due to the extreme price fluctuations and promotional nature of the event. Check Walmart’s official policy closer to Black Friday.
Will Walmart have special Black Friday hours for seniors or other vulnerable populations? While some retailers offered dedicated shopping hours for seniors during the pandemic, this practice has largely been discontinued. Check Walmart’s website for any specific announcements closer to the date.
How can I find the best Black Friday deals at Walmart? The best way to find Black Friday deals is to check Walmart’s website and app regularly, sign up for email alerts, and browse online flyers. Also, consider joining Walmart+ for early access to deals.
What is Walmart+’s role in Black Friday? Walmart+ members often receive early access to Black Friday deals, giving them a head start on securing the items they want. This can be a valuable perk during the busy shopping season.
Will Walmart be as crowded on Black Friday 2025 as it used to be? While Black Friday remains a popular shopping day, the crowds are generally less intense than in the pre-online shopping era. However, popular items may still draw large crowds, so plan accordingly and consider shopping online.

By staying informed and planning ahead, you can navigate the holiday shopping season effectively and secure the best deals without sacrificing your Thanksgiving Day or your sanity. While you won’t be able to walk the aisles of Walmart on Thanksgiving 2025, the digital doors will be wide open, offering a convenient and potentially less chaotic shopping experience. Happy shopping!