Navigating Thanksgiving Day Openings and Closings in Massachusetts
Planning your Thanksgiving Day errands in Massachusetts? It’s helpful to understand which businesses will be open and closed due to the state’s unique “blue laws.” These regulations, dating back to colonial times, have a significant impact on holiday shopping and essential services.
Unpacking Massachusetts’ “Blue Laws”
Massachusetts is one of just three states that observes “blue laws,” which restrict commercial activity on certain holidays, including Thanksgiving and Christmas.
These laws originated in the 1600s as a way to ensure people attended church services and observed the Sabbath. The term “blue” arose because blue was associated with piety and morality during that era.
Stores Closed for Thanksgiving
Traditional blue laws extend to most retail stores, meaning many popular shopping destinations will remain closed on Thanksgiving Day.
This includes Framingham-based TJX, which will keep all its TJ Maxx, Marshalls, and HomeGoods stores closed, as will national chains like Target, Walmart, Costco, Best Buy, Kohl’s, and Macy’s.
Grocery Store and Supermarket Schedules
Large supermarket and grocery store chains across Massachusetts will also be closed on Thanksgiving.
This applies to chains like Market Basket, Stop & Shop, Big Y, Wegmans, Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, Price Chopper, Star Market, and Hannaford.
However, there’s an exception: small food stores employing three people or fewer are exempt from these regulations.
Pharmacy Availability on Thanksgiving
Good news for those needing last-minute medications: stores with pharmacies are permitted to open on Thanksgiving, although hours may be reduced. CVS stores will be operating. Walgreens said most of its locations will be closed, with the exception of 24-hour stores containing pharmacies.
Restaurants Open on Thanksgiving
If you’re looking for a Thanksgiving meal out, you’re in luck! Restaurants can operate on Thanksgiving, including coffee havens like Dunkin’ and Starbucks. However, be prepared for potentially limited hours.
Liquor Store Closures
While restaurants can serve alcohol on Thanksgiving, Massachusetts law mandates that liquor stores remain closed on the holiday.
Staying Fueled: Gas Stations Open
Need to fill up your tank before your Thanksgiving travels? You’re in luck: gas stations across Massachusetts will be open for business on Thanksgiving.
What are some reliable methods for Massachusetts residents to confirm the holiday hours of specific businesses they plan to visit on Thanksgiving?
## Navigating Thanksgiving Day Openings and Closings in Massachusetts
**Host:** Welcome back to the show. Joining us today is [Guest Name], a labor law expert specializing in Massachusetts regulations. Thanks for being here.
**Guest:** Thanks for having me.
**Host:** Today we’re talking about navigating the often confusing issue of Thanksgiving Day openings and closings in Massachusetts. Many listeners may be surprised to learn that Massachusetts has these unique “blue laws.” Can you tell us a little about those?
**Guest:** Absolutely. Massachusetts, along with two other states, still has “blue laws” on the books that restrict certain commercial activity on holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas. These laws date back to the 1600s when they were meant to ensure people attended church services and observed the Sabbath.
**Host:** So, what does that mean for shoppers hoping to get a head start on Black Friday deals or pick up a forgotten ingredient for their Thanksgiving feast?
**Guest:** That’s where it gets tricky. Many stores, especially larger retail chains, will be closed on Thanksgiving Day in Massachusetts due to these blue laws [[1](https://bluelionllc.com/sunday-holiday-work-understanding-massachusetts-blue-laws/)]. However, there are always exceptions. Some smaller businesses, pharmacies, and grocery stores might be open with limited hours.
**Host:** It definitely seems like a good idea to double-check before heading out on Thanksgiving. Any advice for our listeners who want to avoid any surprises?
**Guest:** Absolutely. The best thing to do is call ahead to the specific stores you plan to visit or check their websites for holiday hours.
**Host:** Great advice! Thanks so much for joining us and shedding light on these sometimes confusing laws.
**Guest:** My pleasure. Happy Thanksgiving!