what liquor stores are open on thanksgiving day

2 min read 01-02-2025

what liquor stores are open on thanksgiving day

Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and feasting – and for many, that feast includes a celebratory drink or two. But finding a store open on Thanksgiving Day to purchase your favorite spirits can be tricky. Most liquor stores follow stricter regulations than grocery stores, and their holiday hours vary significantly by location and state laws. This guide will help you navigate the complexities of finding open liquor stores on Thanksgiving.

The Reality: Limited Availability

Unfortunately, the simple answer is that very few liquor stores are open on Thanksgiving Day. Unlike some grocery stores that offer limited hours, most states' laws heavily restrict alcohol sales on major holidays, including Thanksgiving. Many businesses choose to give their employees the day off to celebrate with their families, reflecting the overall spirit of the holiday.

Where to Check for Open Stores (and Why It's Difficult)

Your best bet for finding a potentially open liquor store on Thanksgiving is to:

1. Check Online:

Store Locator Tools: If you know the specific liquor store chain you prefer (e.g., Total Wine & More, ABC Fine Wine & Spirits), check their official website. Many large chains have store locator tools that allow you to input your address and see individual store hours – including holiday hours. Be aware: even if a store shows hours online, those hours might be outdated or incorrect for Thanksgiving. Always call to confirm.
Google Search: A simple Google search like "liquor stores open Thanksgiving [your city/state]" might yield some results, but treat this information cautiously. Always verify hours through the store's official channels before making a trip.
Social Media: Some liquor stores might announce their Thanksgiving hours on their Facebook or Instagram pages. This is a less reliable method but worth a quick check.

2. Call Ahead:

This is the most reliable method. Call the specific liquor stores in your area directly to confirm their Thanksgiving Day hours. Don't hesitate to call multiple stores, as hours can vary greatly even within the same city or chain.

3. Plan Ahead:

The best way to avoid the Thanksgiving liquor store scramble is to buy your alcohol in advance. Stock up on your spirits the day before or earlier in the week to guarantee you have what you need for your Thanksgiving celebration.

State-Specific Regulations: A Major Factor

Alcohol regulations differ drastically between states. Some states have stricter rules than others regarding alcohol sales on Thanksgiving and other holidays. Your state's Alcoholic Beverage Control (ABC) agency website is your best resource for the most up-to-date and accurate information on alcohol sales regulations.

Alternatives to Buying on Thanksgiving

If you find that no liquor stores near you are open, consider these alternatives:

Shop Earlier: As previously mentioned, the best strategy is to buy alcohol well before Thanksgiving.
Borrow from a Friend or Neighbor: Perhaps a friend or neighbor has already stocked up.
Embrace the Mocktail: Explore creative non-alcoholic options for your Thanksgiving festivities.

Conclusion: Be Prepared and Plan Accordingly

Finding an open liquor store on Thanksgiving is challenging. By utilizing online tools, making phone calls, and planning ahead, you'll maximize your chances of success. However, don't be surprised if your best option is to buy your alcohol early. Remember to always check with the store directly to confirm their holiday hours. Happy Thanksgiving!