The question is cvs open on thanksgiving remains one of the most searched holiday inquiries each year, and in 2025 the answer is yes—most CVS stores across the United States will be open on Thanksgiving Day, though hours will vary by location. CVS has now confirmed that stores will operate under adjusted holiday schedules, and pharmacy hours will differ significantly from regular business operations. This detailed guide covers everything shoppers need to know before heading out on Thursday, November 27, 2025.
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CVS Thanksgiving Hours: What Shoppers Can Expect This Year
CVS continues its long-running holiday policy of keeping most retail stores open on Thanksgiving. While many large retailers choose to close for the holiday, CVS stays available for essential items, last-minute groceries, over-the-counter medications, personal care goods, and emergency supplies.
However, store hours on Thanksgiving Day do not follow the chain’s usual schedule.
What Most Customers Will See
- Many stores open in the morning and close earlier than normal.
- Corporate-operated locations commonly use reduced hours such as 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
- Stores that normally operate 24 hours generally remain open for the full 24-hour schedule.
- Pharmacy counters may have limited hours or be completely closed depending on staffing and location.
Because schedules differ by market, shoppers should always verify their local store’s specific hours before visiting.
Retail Store Hours vs. Pharmacy Hours
A key detail for customers to understand is that CVS retail operations and pharmacy operations follow different holiday policies.
Retail Store
The retail floor typically remains open at the majority of CVS locations. This allows shoppers to pick up:
- Over-the-counter medications
- Snacks and beverages
- Batteries and household supplies
- Personal care essentials
- Gift items and holiday needs
Pharmacy
Pharmacy availability varies widely. While some high-traffic or 24-hour stores may staff a pharmacist on Thanksgiving, many CVS pharmacies across the country close for the day.
This makes it essential for customers needing prescription medications to plan ahead. Anyone expecting a pickup or refill should check their nearest CVS location or use the CVS mobile app to confirm pharmacy hours.
Common situations where the pharmacy may be closed:
- Smaller market stores
- Stores with limited staff
- Stores in areas where holiday pharmacist staffing is harder to schedule
- CVS locations inside grocery or retail partner stores that are closed for Thanksgiving
Even if the retail floor is open, the pharmacy counter may not be.
Why CVS Hours Vary Across the Country
CVS does not set one universal nationwide schedule for Thanksgiving Day. Instead, hours are determined by a combination of factors, including:
Local Demand
High-traffic urban stores and locations in busy suburban markets often maintain longer hours due to customer volume.
Labor and Staffing
Holiday staffing is voluntary in many areas. Locations that cannot maintain full staffing operate with reduced hours.
Store Type
- Standalone CVS stores often open on Thanksgiving.
- CVS stores inside Target or other retailers follow the host retailer’s hours. If the host store closes for Thanksgiving, the CVS inside also closes.
Community and State Regulations
Some cities and states place restrictions on holiday retail hours. When that occurs, CVS locations in that region comply with the regulations.
This explains why one CVS may open early and stay open into the evening, while another store only a few miles away may operate on a shorter schedule.
How to Check Your Local CVS Hours
Because CVS hours differ by region, verifying your local store’s schedule is important—especially if you need pharmacy services.
Here are the most reliable ways to check:
1. CVS Store Locator
The store locator on the CVS website lists real-time updated holiday hours.
2. CVS Mobile App
The app provides pharmacy and retail hours separately, which is crucial for Thanksgiving.
3. Phone Call
For urgent needs, calling the store directly offers the fastest confirmation. Staff members can confirm retail hours, pharmacy availability, and whether any special holiday limitations are in place.
4. Door Signage
Many CVS locations post holiday hours at the entrance in the week leading up to Thanksgiving.
Because hours can change based on staffing and local conditions, last-minute verification is recommended.
What’s Available at CVS on Thanksgiving Day
Even with reduced hours, CVS offers a wide range of essentials for holiday visitors and last-minute situations.
Holiday Essentials
- Aluminum foil, plastic wrap, and cooking pans
- Spices, salt, sugar, and basic baking needs
- Gift cards
- Greeting cards
- Small household tools and batteries
Food and Snacks
- Bottled beverages
- Chips and snacks
- Frozen foods and pantry basics depending on location
- Desserts, candy, and treats
Health and Wellness
- Over-the-counter cold and flu medication
- Pain relievers
- Allergy products
- First aid items
Personal Care
- Toiletries
- Hair and beauty items
- Travel-size essentials for guests
Shoppers rely on CVS for these last-minute necessities when other retailers are closed for the holiday.
What You Cannot Count on at CVS on Thanksgiving
Because pharmacy hours vary, some services may be unavailable:
1. In-Person Prescription Pickup
If your pharmacy counter is closed, you will not be able to pick up new prescriptions or controlled medications.
2. Vaccine Appointments
Vaccination services generally pause on Thanksgiving unless your store has a staffed pharmacy.
3. Consultation Services
Without a pharmacist on duty, prescription-related guidance is unavailable.
4. Specialty Prescriptions
Specialty medication pickup almost always requires pharmacy staff and is typically not available on Thanksgiving Day.
Tips for Preparing Ahead of the Holiday
Planning ahead saves time and prevents holiday frustration.
Refill Prescriptions Early
Pick up medications during the days before Thanksgiving, especially if you take daily or emergency medication.
Use the App for Reminders
The CVS app allows customers to activate reminders, auto-refills, and refill requests ahead of the holiday.
Find the Nearest 24-Hour Store
If your nearest CVS closes early, a 24-hour location may remain open, retail and pharmacy included.
Double-Check Hours the Night Before
Schedules can shift based on staffing changes or weather conditions.
Bottom Line: Is CVS Open on Thanksgiving?
The answer is yes—most CVS stores will be open on Thanksgiving Day in 2025. However, hours will be reduced, and pharmacy operations vary significantly depending on location. Shoppers planning a visit should verify both store and pharmacy schedules in advance to avoid disruption.
If you’re making a Thanksgiving Day stop at CVS, share your experience below and tell us whether your store stayed busy this holiday.