Many people preparing for home projects, quick repairs, or last-minute household needs are asking an important question today: is Ace Hardware open on Thanksgiving? With Thanksgiving falling on November 27, 2025, shoppers across the United States want to know whether they can count on their local Ace store for tools, supplies, or emergency home-fix essentials.
Most Ace Hardware stores do not open on Thanksgiving, but because the company operates through independently owned locations, hours can differ. Some stores may open for a short period based on the decision of the local owner, while the majority follow a full-day closure to allow employees time with their families. Understanding this structure is essential for shoppers who prefer to plan ahead during one of the busiest holiday weekends of the year.
This detailed guide explains everything shoppers need to know today — national trends, store-owner flexibility, how to check hours, what to expect on Thanksgiving Day, and practical tips to avoid being caught off guard.
Table of Contents
Why Most Ace Hardware Stores Close on Thanksgiving
Ace Hardware is unique in the retail world because it is a cooperative of independently owned and operated stores. This means:
- Each store sets its own hours
- Local communities influence business decisions
- Holiday schedules are not standardized
- Owners often choose closures to support staff family time
While major national retailers tend to follow company-wide holiday policies, Ace Hardware locations function more like neighborhood stores. That often results in a more personal approach to holiday scheduling — including taking Thanksgiving Day off.
In recent years, the trend across the retail industry has leaned heavily toward Thanksgiving closures. Many large brands have adopted employee-friendly schedules, and smaller businesses like Ace Hardware commonly follow that same approach. This means the majority of Ace stores are closed today.
Still, a small number of stores may choose to open if they serve a community that relies on them for essential home-repair needs or seasonal products. That makes it important for shoppers to verify before making the trip.
Why Some Locations May Still Open
Though uncommon, some Ace Hardware stores do open on Thanksgiving for limited hours. Reasons may include:
- Local demand for urgent home-repair supplies
- Tourist-heavy towns with high customer traffic on holidays
- Owners deciding to operate short shifts for convenience
- Seasonal product sales such as Christmas decorations
These exceptions are rare but possible, especially in smaller communities where Ace Hardware may be the primary hardware retailer.
If a store does open, the hours are usually reduced — often a short morning or early-afternoon window. Extended evening hours are extremely unlikely.
How to Confirm Whether Your Local Store Is Open
Because hours vary by location, checking the schedule of your neighborhood Ace store is essential. Here are the most reliable methods:
1. Use the Ace Hardware Store Locator
The online locator lists each store’s hours as entered by the local owner. If the store is closed, the listing will typically reflect the holiday schedule.
2. Call the Store Directly
A quick phone call is the most accurate option. Some stores update holiday hours at the last minute or provide information through voicemail if they are closed for the day.
3. Check Your Store’s Social Media Page
Many independently owned Ace locations post updates to platforms like Facebook or Instagram, especially around the holidays.
4. Check Google Search Results
Google Maps often displays holiday-specific hours, though accuracy depends on whether the local owner updated the listing.
5. Look for Local News Announcements
Local outlets sometimes publish Thanksgiving operating-hours coverage for area businesses. While helpful, these should not be the only source you rely on.
Verifying before driving out can help you avoid wasted time and frustration — especially on a major holiday when traffic is light, but most stores are closed.
What to Expect If a Store Near You Is Open
If your local Ace Hardware turns out to be one of the few stores open on Thanksgiving, here’s what you can expect:
Shortened Hours
Most open stores run abbreviated holiday schedules. Expect limited windows such as:
- 8 a.m. – 12 p.m.
- 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.
- 10 a.m. – 2 p.m.
Reduced Staff
Many employees have the day off, so one or two associates may be operating the store.
Limited Services
Certain departments may not be fully staffed. Tasks like:
- paint mixing
- key cutting
- equipment rentals
- delivery scheduling
may be unavailable.
Lower Inventory in Some Areas
Thanksgiving falls deep into the transition between fall and winter retail seasons. Some stores may be reorganizing aisles or preparing holiday displays, meaning inventory could be temporarily shifted.
No Major Promotions
Most promotional activity is focused on Black Friday and the weekend that follows. Thanksgiving is generally not a day for in-store deals.
How Ace Hardware Fits Into the 2025 Holiday Retail Landscape
Thanksgiving retail hours have transformed over the past decade. A growing number of major companies now close their doors for the holiday. While a few convenience-driven chains remain open, hardware and home-improvement stores tend to observe full-day closures.
Ace Hardware fits well within this trend. As a community-centered retailer with locally owned stores, prioritizing time with family aligns with its brand identity.
Typical Thanksgiving Day Retail Landscape:
| Category | General Trend |
|---|---|
| Hardware stores | Mostly closed |
| Grocery stores | Mixed, many open with reduced hours |
| Pharmacies | Mixed, depends on location |
| Convenience stores | Mostly open |
| Big-box retailers | Largely closed |
| Home-improvement chains | Mostly closed |
Ace Hardware’s model allows its stores to align with local customer expectations. But nationwide, the pattern strongly leans toward closure — making it even more important to verify your location’s status.
Tips for Shoppers Planning Around Holiday Hours
If you need hardware supplies around Thanksgiving, a bit of planning can save you a lot of stress. Here are helpful tips:
1. Shop on Thanksgiving Eve
The day before the holiday is typically a normal operating day for most Ace Hardware stores. Many locations run regular hours, making it the best time to pick up essentials.
2. Prepare a Home-Repair Checklist
Before the holiday, walk through your home and make sure you have:
- working light bulbs
- tools for minor repairs
- weatherproofing items
- batteries
- extension cords
- fire-safety supplies
- furnace filters
- seasonal decorations
Preparing early reduces the need for last-minute shopping.
3. Anticipate Weather-Related Needs
Thanksgiving often arrives with cold fronts in many regions. Consider stocking up beforehand on:
- ice melt
- snow shovels
- propane
- space heaters
- door-draft stoppers
4. Plan for Black Friday
Ace Hardware usually participates in Black Friday sales, offering discounts on tools, outdoor equipment, home-improvement products, and décor.
If you can wait until the next day, you may find better deals than you would on Thanksgiving.
Is Ace Hardware Open on Thanksgiving? The Short Answer
If you’re wondering is Ace Hardware open on Thanksgiving, the best assumption is no. Most stores stay closed, but because each location is independently owned, a few may choose to open for short hours.
Without checking directly, there is no guarantee your local store will be open — which makes confirmation essential before you drive out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Ace Hardware have nationwide holiday hours?
No. Each store sets its own schedule because all locations are independently owned. This creates variation during holidays like Thanksgiving.
If my store is open, will all services be available?
Not always. Departments such as rentals, paint mixing, and key cutting may be limited or unavailable on Thanksgiving.
What if I need hardware items urgently and Ace is closed?
Some convenience stores, select grocery stores, and certain pharmacies carry basic repair items such as batteries, adhesives, light bulbs, and cleaning products. If you need specialty tools, you may need to wait until Black Friday.
Disclaimer
All information in this article is based on the most recent publicly available updates as of the date of writing. Store hours may vary by location, and individual Ace Hardware stores may adjust their schedules without notice. Readers are encouraged to verify holiday hours directly with their local store before visiting.
