Is Panda Express Open on Thanksgiving? (Full 2025 Guide)
If you are planning a quick holiday meal and wondering is Panda Express open on Thanksgiving, this short and clear guide gives you the exact answer. Most Panda Express locations stay closed on Thanksgiving, but hours can vary in airports, malls, and busy travel areas. Below you’ll find complete details, city patterns, holiday expectations, and how to confirm your local store hours.
Is Panda Express Open on Thanksgiving?
Most Panda Express restaurants are closed on Thanksgiving.
A few airport and travel-area locations may operate with adjusted hours, but regular neighborhood stores remain closed.
If you need options, you can also check our Chipotle Thanksgiving Hours and IHOP Thanksgiving Hours for comparison.
Panda Express Thanksgiving Hours Overview
| Status | Details |
|---|---|
| Open or Closed | Mostly Closed |
| Possible Exceptions | Airports, casino areas, travel plazas |
| Regular Stores | Remain closed for the holiday |
| Tip | Always confirm using store locator |
Panda Express Hours During Thanksgiving Week
Even though Thanksgiving Day is closed, the days before and after usually follow regular hours.
| Day | Hours |
|---|---|
| Monday | 10:30 AM to 9:30 PM |
| Tuesday | 10:30 AM to 9:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 10:30 AM to 9:30 PM |
| Thursday (Thanksgiving) | Closed |
| Friday | 10:30 AM to 9:30 PM |
| Saturday | 10:30 AM to 9:30 PM |
| Sunday | 11 AM to 9 PM |
Hours may vary by location, especially in malls and airports.
Panda Express Thanksgiving Hours in Major Cities
Below is a helpful look at holiday patterns in popular cities. These are general tendencies and not store-specific.
| City | Thanksgiving Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Los Angeles | Closed | High tourist spots may vary |
| Chicago | Closed | Downtown areas follow regular holiday policy |
| Houston | Closed | Mall-based locations closed |
| Las Vegas | Mostly Closed | Casino-attached stores may operate |
| Miami | Closed | Airport locations may have limited hours |
| New York City | Mostly Closed | Travel-area exceptions only |
Panda Express Airport & Mall Locations on Thanksgiving
If any stores open, they are usually inside:
- Airport terminals
- Casino resorts
- High-traffic transit hubs
These locations follow host-facility schedules, not standard Panda Express hours.
How to Check Panda Express Thanksgiving Hours
To avoid any confusion, you can confirm your local store timing with these simple steps.
1. Use the Panda Express Store Locator
Search your city or ZIP to see exact updated hours.
2. Check Google Maps
Holiday hours often show temporary closures.
3. Call the Store
This is the most reliable method during holidays.
4. Check Delivery Apps
DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub display closure notices for the day.
Is Panda Express Open on Black Friday?
Yes, Panda Express opens on Black Friday following normal operating hours. Some mall stores may adjust slightly for early morning traffic.
You can also view the complete schedule for every major holiday in our full Panda Express holiday hours guide.
Restaurants Open on Thanksgiving 2025
Since most Panda Express locations stay closed on Thanksgiving, many people look for other places that remain open. Here is a useful list of popular restaurant chains that are open on Thanksgiving 2025. Hours can vary by location, but these brands usually operate with regular or limited holiday schedules.
1. IHOP
IHOP keeps many of its restaurants open on Thanksgiving. Most locations follow regular hours, while some switch to a shorter holiday schedule.
2. Denny’s
Denny’s is one of the most reliable options for Thanksgiving. Almost all locations stay open 24 hours, making it great for early breakfasts or late dinners.
3. Waffle House
Waffle House is known for staying open year-round. Most stores run normal hours on Thanksgiving, especially in busy travel areas.
4. McDonald’s
Many McDonald’s restaurants open on Thanksgiving with adjusted hours. Stores inside gas stations and airports are often the most consistent.
5. Burger King
Burger King keeps a good number of locations open on Thanksgiving. Hours may be shorter, especially in mall locations.
6. Wendy’s
Several Wendy’s restaurants stay open on Thanksgiving. Closing times can vary, so it’s best to check your local store.
7. Dunkin’
Most Dunkin’ locations open on Thanksgiving morning. Some close early, but airport and transit locations often operate longer.
8. Krispy Kreme
Many Krispy Kreme shops open for a limited time on Thanksgiving, especially to serve morning customers. Afternoon hours may be shorter.
9. Golden Corral
Golden Corral is a popular choice for families because many locations offer special Thanksgiving meals and open for dine-in during the day.
10. Maggiano’s or Romano’s Macaroni Grill
Full-service restaurants like Maggiano’s and Macaroni Grill often open on Thanksgiving with special menus. Reservations are recommended.
FAQs
Is Panda Express open on Thanksgiving?
No, most Panda Express locations are closed on Thanksgiving. Only a few airport or casino locations may operate.
What time does Panda Express close on Thanksgiving Eve?
Most stores close at regular time, usually around 9:30 PM.
Are Panda Express airport locations open on Thanksgiving?
Some airport locations may open with limited hours, depending on terminal schedules.
Does Panda Express offer any Thanksgiving specials?
No, Panda Express does not offer Thanksgiving-specific menu items or promotions.
