As Americans plan their schedules around Martin Luther King Jr. Day in 2026, one question comes up often among fast-food lovers: is chick fil a open on mlk day? With the holiday falling on Monday, January 19, families, students, and professionals are curious whether they can enjoy breakfast, lunch, or dinner at their favorite Chick Fil A locations. Unlike some other major chains that close on certain holidays, Chick Fil A generally operates on MLK Day, offering customers an opportunity to visit during regular hours. This article provides a detailed guide on Chick Fil A’s 2026 holiday operations, what to expect, and tips for making the most of your visit.
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Chick Fil A’s Regular Hours
Chick Fil A restaurants typically open early in the morning, often around 6:30 a.m., and stay open into the evening, with closing times commonly near 9:00 p.m. Weekdays and most holidays feature a consistent schedule, allowing customers to plan visits for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The chain emphasizes reliable hours for its patrons, making it easy for families and individuals to schedule meals around work or school commitments.
Chick Fil A Holiday Policies
Chick Fil A is known for its unique holiday policies. All locations are closed on Sundays to give employees a day of rest. In addition, major holidays such as Christmas Day and Thanksgiving are widely observed with complete store closures. However, other federal holidays, including Martin Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents’ Day, and Memorial Day, are not included in the list of mandatory closures. This means that most Chick Fil A locations remain open, providing customers access to meals and services during the holiday.
MLK Day 2026 Operating Status
In 2026, Chick Fil A will remain open on Martin Luther King Jr. Day, allowing guests to enjoy the full menu. While hours can vary slightly by location, the overall expectation is that restaurants will operate like a normal business day. Customers can expect breakfast service in the morning and lunch and dinner menus available throughout the afternoon and evening. Checking local hours ahead of time is always recommended for precise timing, especially in high-traffic areas or smaller towns where schedules can differ slightly.
Typical Hours on MLK Day
Most Chick Fil A locations begin serving breakfast around 6:30 a.m. The breakfast menu typically runs until late morning, after which lunch and dinner options become available. Evening closing times generally hover around 9:00 p.m., although some locations may close earlier or later depending on local traffic and demand. Customers visiting on MLK Day can plan to enjoy the full menu, including breakfast biscuits, chicken sandwiches, nuggets, salads, and sides.
Menu Availability on MLK Day
Chick Fil A maintains its standard menu on MLK Day. Breakfast favorites, including chicken biscuits, breakfast burritos, and hash browns, are available in the morning. Once breakfast hours end, lunch and dinner options are served, featuring iconic items like the Chick Fil A Chicken Sandwich, nuggets, wraps, salads, and waffle fries. Desserts and beverages, such as milkshakes and cookies, are generally available throughout the day. Customers can enjoy the same high-quality offerings they would on a typical business day.
Drive-Thru, Dine-In, and Takeout Options
Chick Fil A offers multiple service options for MLK Day visitors. Drive-thru lanes provide a convenient way to grab meals without leaving your vehicle, which is especially useful during peak hours. Dine-in options remain available for guests wishing to enjoy their meals inside the restaurant, while takeout and curbside pickup through the Chick Fil A app allow for fast, contactless service. These options make it easy to plan visits according to your schedule and personal preference.
Peak Times and Crowds on MLK Day
Since MLK Day is a federal holiday, many people have the day off from work and school, often resulting in higher customer traffic. Peak hours generally include early morning breakfast, lunch, and early evening dinner times. Visiting during off-peak hours, such as mid-morning or mid-afternoon, can help reduce wait times. Using mobile ordering or the drive-thru option is recommended for faster service and minimal contact.
How Chick Fil A Compares to Other Chains
Unlike chains that operate every day of the year, Chick Fil A closes on Sundays and major holidays such as Christmas and Thanksgiving. However, holidays like MLK Day, Presidents’ Day, and Memorial Day generally see normal operations. This selective holiday approach allows Chick Fil A to provide employees with rest while still offering service on most federal holidays. Customers benefit from consistent access to their favorite menu items even on long weekends.
Tips for Visiting Chick Fil A on MLK Day
To make the most of your MLK Day visit to Chick Fil A, consider a few strategies. Check local hours ahead of time to confirm when your location opens and closes. Visit during off-peak hours to avoid long lines, or use mobile ordering to secure your meal in advance. Drive-thru service can also provide a faster experience than dining inside. By planning ahead, you can ensure a smooth and enjoyable meal experience.
Final Answer: Is Chick Fil A Open on MLK Day?
For those wondering is chick fil a open on mlk day, the answer is yes. Most Chick Fil A restaurants across the United States will be open on Monday, January 19, 2026. Customers can expect regular operating hours, full menu availability, and multiple service options, including drive-thru, dine-in, and takeout. Planning ahead and checking your local restaurant’s hours will make your visit even more convenient.
Will you be visiting Chick Fil A on Martin Luther King Jr. Day 2026? Share your favorite menu items and holiday plans with other readers!
