Your Essential Guide to Walmart Thanksgiving Hours 2024 & Black Friday Kickoff

The holiday season is almost upon us, and for many, that means gearing up for incredible deals and carefully planning shopping trips. A common question that pops up every year is: What are Walmart Thanksgiving hours? Knowing when your favorite superstore is open (or closed) is key to making the most of your holiday shopping strategy, especially with the highly anticipated Black Friday sales just around the corner.

Walmart, a retail giant, plays a massive role in holiday preparations for millions. From last-minute dinner essentials to snagging the hottest gifts, understanding their holiday schedule, particularly for Thanksgiving Day and the subsequent Black Friday, is crucial. Let’s dive into what you need to know for 2024.

Are Walmart Stores Open on Thanksgiving Day 2024?

In recent years, Walmart has made a significant shift in its holiday policy, prioritizing its associates’ time with family. Since 2020, Walmart stores have consistently been closed on Thanksgiving Day. This tradition is expected to continue for 2024.

This means you shouldn’t plan on doing any in-store shopping at Walmart on Thursday, November 28th, 2024. This decision allows their dedicated staff to enjoy the holiday with their loved ones, a move widely appreciated by both employees and customers.

When Do Walmart’s Black Friday Sales Start?

While brick-and-mortar stores are typically closed on Thanksgiving Day, the hunt for deals often begins much earlier online. Walmart usually kicks off its Black Friday sales event in stages, often starting weeks before Thanksgiving with online-exclusive promotions. The official in-store Black Friday deals usually commence very early on the day *after* Thanksgiving.

Key Dates & Times to Watch For:

• Online Black Friday Deals: Expect an early start! Walmart’s website usually launches its deepest discounts days, or even weeks, before Thanksgiving. Keep a close eye on Walmart’s official deals page for early announcements and flash sales.
• In-Store Black Friday Opening: Walmart stores are traditionally known to open very early on Black Friday (the day after Thanksgiving), often between 5 AM and 6 AM local time. Check your specific store’s hours closer to the date for the most accurate information.

How to Confirm Your Local Walmart’s Holiday Hours

While the general guidance suggests closure on Thanksgiving Day and early openings on Black Friday, it’s always best to verify specific hours for your local store. Retail schedules can sometimes vary by location, especially in different regions or for specific types of stores (e.g., Neighborhood Market vs. Supercenter).

Here’s how you can get the most up-to-date information:

1. Walmart Store Finder: Use the official Walmart Store Finder on their website. Simply enter your zip code or city to find your nearest store and view their detailed hours of operation.
2. Official Walmart App: Download the Walmart app for convenient access to store information, weekly ads, and real-time updates.
3. Corporate Announcements: Stay tuned to Walmart’s Corporate Newsroom for official press releases regarding holiday schedules and major sales events.

Tips for a Successful Walmart Holiday Shopping Experience

With crucial information about Walmart Thanksgiving hours and Black Friday in hand, here are a few extra tips to ensure a smooth shopping experience:

• Plan Ahead: Create a shopping list and research deals beforehand. Knowing what you want will save you time and help you snag those coveted items.
• Shop Online Early: Many of the best deals launch online first. Shopping from the comfort of your home can help you avoid crowds and secure items before they sell out.
• Arrive Early (for in-store Black Friday): If you plan to shop in-store on Black Friday, be prepared for crowds and consider arriving well before opening time to get a good spot in line.
• Utilize Curbside Pickup & Delivery: Consider using Walmart’s convenient pickup and delivery services for everyday essentials, freeing up your in-store time for specific Black Friday finds.
• Stay Informed: Sign up for Walmart’s email alerts or follow their social media channels for real-time updates on deals and store information.

Final Thoughts on Walmart Thanksgiving Hours

Walmart’s consistent closure on Thanksgiving Day underscores their commitment to their employees, while their aggressive online and in-store Black Friday sales ensure customers still get fantastic deals. By staying informed about Walmart Thanksgiving hours and planning your strategy, you’re well-equipped for a successful and less stressful holiday shopping season in 2024. Happy shopping!