PHOENIX, ARIZONA: As Thanksgiving approaches, the anticipation of a festive celebration blends with the practicalities of navigating closures and openings across metro Phoenix.
This guide is designed to assist those preparing for the long weekend, offering insights into the operational status of favorite restaurants, key grocery stores, and the overall landscape of business shutdowns—a precursor to the bustling Black Friday crowds.
So, whether you're planning a cozy family feast or gearing up for post-turkey shopping, here's what you need to know about what will remain open and closed on Thanksgiving Day in metro Phoenix.
What's open on Thanksgiving Day in metro Phoenix?
As Thanksgiving Day unfolds, certain establishments in metro Phoenix are set to keep their doors open, albeit with adjusted operating hours. For those planning last-minute grocery runs or considering dining out, here's a guide to what to expect:
Grocery stores
Fry's, Albertsons, Safeway, Whole Foods, and Sprouts have confirmed they will be open with adjusted operating hours.
Pharmacies
CVS and Rite Aid will maintain their regular hours on Thanksgiving, with 24-hour CVS stores closing early.
Retail chains
Bass Pro Shops, Cabela's, Kmart, and several dollar stores are expected to welcome customers on Thanksgiving Day.
Restaurants
Local favorites such as Cala, Sol Mexican Cocina, and Zinc Bistro will be open on Thursday, November 23. A comprehensive list of restaurants open on Thanksgiving Day can be found on OpenTable.
Store hours on Thanksgiving
CVS: Non-24-hour locations will close early.
Walgreens: Most locations will remain closed; nearly all 24-hour locations to remain open.
Fry’s: Most stores close in the early evening on Thanksgiving.
Albertson’s: Most stores close in the early evening on Thanksgiving.
Safeway: Most stores close in the early evening on Thanksgiving.
Sprouts: Most stores will remain open from 7 am to 2 pm
As you plan your Thanksgiving activities, be sure to double-check specific store hours on Google Maps, Apple Maps, Yelp, or the respective store websites for the most accurate information.
What will remain closed on the Thanksgiving Day holiday in Phoenix?
A growing number of retailers have decided to observe Thanksgiving by keeping their doors closed. This shift in approach aligns with the changing dynamics of consumer behavior and emphasizes the significance of online shopping during the Black Friday and Cyber Monday periods.
The following stores have confirmed closures on Thanksgiving Day:
ALDI
Academy Sports
Bath & Body Works
BJ's Wholesale Club
Best Buy
Costco
Dick's Sporting Goods
Home Depot
Hyvee
JCPenney
Kohl's
Lowe's
Macy's
Michael's
Nordstrom
Petco
Publix
Sam's Club
Simon Malls
Target
Trader Joe's
Walmart
Patagonia
Banks
Most banks, including Wells Fargo, Bank of America, Capital One, Citibank, PNC, Truist, and others, will be closed on Thanksgiving. Branch operations for these banks are not expected to be available on Thursday, aligning with the general trend of closures on the holiday.
Post offices
On November 23, post offices across the United States, including the U.S. Postal Service, will be closed, and retail services will not be available.
Delivery companies
Additionally, both UPS and FedEx stores are anticipated to be closed on Thanksgiving Day, with neither company scheduling package deliveries on this holiday.
Government offices
As is customary, all nonessential federal and state government offices are expected to be closed on Thanksgiving Day. This closure aligns with the general practice observed annually on the holiday.
As you plan your Thanksgiving activities, be sure to consider this list and verify specific store policies as they may be subject to change.
How to spend your Thanksgiving weekend in Phoenix?
As per AZ Central, if you're in the Phoenix area and eager to blend fitness with the Thanksgiving spirit, there are several Turkey Trot options for runners of all levels:
Phoenix Turkey Trot
Date: Thursday, November 23
Location: Wesley Bolin Plaza, 1700 W. Washington St, Phoenix
Details: The Phoenix Turkey Trot offers various options, from a light trot to a full 10K. Participants can enjoy not only the run but also a costume contest to add a festive touch. For more information, visit phoenixturkeytrot.com.
Thanksgiving Day Classic in Peoria
Date: Thursday, November 23
Location: Peoria Sports Complex, 16101 N. 83rd Ave.
Details: Kick off your Thanksgiving with a race that supports the Peoria Diamond Club, benefiting local charities such as the Special Olympics Arizona. Learn more at arizonaroadracers.com.
Gilbert Turkey Trot
Date: Thursday, November 23
Locations: SanTan Village, 2218 E Williams Field Road, Gilbert.
Details: Get ready for a day of feasting by participating in the Gilbert Turkey Trot. The event not only promotes a healthy start to Thanksgiving but also contributes 100% of its proceeds to local nonprofit organizations. Register and find more information at gilbertturkeytrot.com.
Desert Hike at Lake Pleasant Regional Park:
Date: Friday, November 24, 9 am-noon
Location: Lake Pleasant Regional Park, 41835 N. Castle Hot Springs Road, Morristown
Details: Work off your Thanksgiving feast with a 3.6-mile (5.7 km) hike up to Yavapai Point at Lake Pleasant Regional Park. Soak in the breathtaking lakeside scenery while a ranger provides insights into the area's flora and fauna.
The moderate hike features some uneven and rocky sections. Registration is required, group size is limited and the cost is $7 per vehicle. For more information, visit maricopacountyparks.net.
Full Moon Hike at Lost Dutchman State Park
Date: Saturday, November 25, 5.30 pm
Location: Lost Dutchman State Park, 6109 N Apache Trail, Apache Junction
Details: Embark on a hike as the sun sets over the Superstition Mountains, and conclude your journey under the enchanting light of the full moon. Admission is $10. Explore more at azstateparks.com.
Bird Walk at White Tank Mountain Regional Park
Date: Saturday, November 25, 7.30-9.30 am
Location: White Tank Mountain Regional Park, 20304 W. White Tank Mountain Road, Waddell
Details: Join experienced birder Joe Ford for a morning bird walk followed by a special presentation at the south patio of the Nature Center. The cost is $7 per vehicle. Learn more at maricopacountyparks.net.
Fat Turkey Trail Run in Tempe
Date: Saturday, November 25
Location: North Linear Park, 43 S. McClintock Drive, Tempe
Details: Race against a turkey (a person dressed like one) on the red-rock trails of Papago Park. The 5K is perfect for beginners or those seeking a fun run, while the 10K offers a bit more challenge and scenic views.
You can register online at shendocatracing.com.
As you enjoy the Thanksgiving weekend, these outdoor activities offer a mix of adventure, nature, and fun for everyone. Lace-up those hiking boots or running shoes and make the most of the beautiful Arizona landscapes.
