navigating Thanksgiving Closures: What You Need to No for 2025
Thanksgiving is a time for family, food, and gratitude. Though, it also means adjustments to your usual routines as many businesses and services operate on modified schedules. Here’s a comprehensive guide to help you plan for a smooth holiday, covering everything from financial institutions to grocery stores and school closures.
Financial Institutions: Stock Markets & Banks
Planning to handle finances over the long weekend? Be aware of adjusted hours. The New York Stock Exchange and NASDAQ will both close at 12 p.m. Central Time on November 28th. Some late trading sessions may remain open until 4 p.m. CT.
Many banks will also observe the holiday and close early on Black Friday, so it’s best to check wiht your specific bank for their hours.
Shipping & Delivery: USPS, FedEx, and UPS
Expect delays if you’re relying on shipping around Thanksgiving. The U.S.Postal Service will be closed on thanksgiving Day, and no mail will be delivered. FedEx and UPS will also be closed for the holiday.
Furthermore, both FedEx and UPS may have modified service levels on Black Friday, so confirm delivery expectations with the carrier directly.
Goverment Services: DMVs & Federal Agencies
Most government offices will be unavailable during the Thanksgiving holiday. State agencies, including the Secretary of State’s Office, will be closed. Similarly, federal government agencies will also be closed in observance of the federal holiday.
Grocery stores & Retailers: Planning Your Feast
Need a last-minute ingredient for your Thanksgiving meal? Some grocery stores will be open with limited hours, while others will remain closed. Restaurants may also offer special holiday meals.
Here’s a breakdown of what to expect in the Chicago area for 2025:
Open (with varying hours):
* Angelo Caputo’s Fresh Market: 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.
* Cermak Fresh Market: 7 a.m. to 7 p.m.
* CVS: Open, but hours might potentially be reduced; check your local store.
* Dollar General: Open in most states, with hours varying by location.
* Jewel-Osco: Most stores open 6 a.m. to 4 p.m.
* Kroger: holiday hours vary; stores open until 4 p.m. most pharmacies are closed.
* Mariano’s: Holiday hours vary; stores open until 5 p.m. Most pharmacies are closed.
* Meijer: 6 a.m. to 5 p.m.
* Strack & Van Til: Open until 3 p.m.
* Sunset Foods and Grand Foods: 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.
* Tony’s Fresh Market: 7 a.m. to 11 p.m.
* Walgreens: 24-hour locations open for essential pharmacy services; most others closed.
* Whole Foods: Many stores open with modified hours; check your local store.
Closed:
* ALDI
* Costco
* Heinen’s
* Sam’s Club
* Target
* Trader Joe’s
* Walmart
It’s always a good idea to verify hours with your local store before heading out.
School Closures: Breaks and Schedules
Are you wondering about school schedules? Chicago public Schools will be on holiday break from November 24th to 28th, with buildings closed on Thursday and Friday.
Other school districts may have different break schedules, but all schools will be closed on Thanksgiving Day, as designated by the Illinois State Board of Education. You can find more facts about state guidelines here.
By planning ahead and knowing what to expect, you can ensure a relaxing and enjoyable Thanksgiving. Remember
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