What’s open and what’s closed on Thanksgiving in Massachusetts?

BOSTON – Need to run to the store for a last-minute Thanksgiving dinner ingredient? Or hoping to get an early start on Black Friday shopping? Here’s what’s open and closed on Thanksgiving in Massachusetts, and some background about the “blue laws” that regulate the holiday.

What are “blue laws” in Massachusetts?

Massachusetts is one of just three states that prohibit most stores from opening on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas thanks to “blue laws.” According to the Massachusetts Historical Society, blue laws were established by colonial governments of the 1600s to make sure people went to church on Sundays and observed the Sabbath.

They’re called blue laws because blue was a color associated with high morality. 

What stores are closed on Thanksgiving in Massachusetts?

As noted above, most retail stores are prevented from opening on Thanksgiving, but more and more chains are deciding to give their employees a day off. Framingham-based TJX will close all TJ Maxx, Marshalls and HomeGoods stores on Thanksgiving. 

Other big-name stores found in Massachusetts like Target, Walmart, Costco, Best Buy, Kohl’s, and Macy’s are keeping locations closed nationwide for the holiday.

Are supermarkets and grocery stores open on Thanksgiving?

Large supermarkets and grocery store chains in Massachusetts will be closed on Thanksgiving. That includes Market Basket, Stop & Shop, Big Y, Wegmans, Trader Joe’s, Whole Foods, Price Chopper, Star Market and Hannaford. 

Small food stores that employ three people or fewer are exempt from the blue laws.

Are pharmacies open on Thanksgiving?

Stores with pharmacies are allowed to open, so you can go to CVS if you need to pick something up on Thanksgiving Day. Store hours may be shortened for the holiday, however.

Walgreens said most of its locations will be closed, except for 24-hour stores with pharmacies.

Can restaurants open on Thanksgiving in Massachusetts?

Yes, restaurants are allowed to open on Thanksgiving. For coffee lovers that includes Dunkin’ and Starbucks as well, though hours may be limited.

Are liquor stores open on Thanksgiving in Massachusetts?

While restaurants are allowed to serve alcohol on Thanksgiving, liquor stores are required to close for the holiday in Massachusetts. 

Are gas stations open on Thanksgiving?

Yes, gas stations are open for Thanksgiving in Massachusetts.