KFC Thanksgiving Hours 2025 – Is KFC Open on Thanksgiving?
Many people check KFC Thanksgiving hours when planning their holiday meal. The quick answer is simple. Most KFC stores run reduced hours on Thanksgiving, and some locations may close for the day. Hours depend on store type and city, so always confirm your local timing before you go.
KFC also becomes popular during the holidays because many families pick up chicken buckets or bundled meals to make the day easier. Below is everything you need to know.
Quick Answer: KFC Thanksgiving Hours 2025
Here is a simple overview of what you can normally expect.
| Day | Status | Typical Pattern |
|---|---|---|
| Thanksgiving Eve | Open | Some stores close slightly early |
| Thanksgiving Day | Reduced hours or closed | Many open late morning and close early evening |
Most franchise locations adjust schedules based on staffing, demand, and local rules.
Is KFC Open on Thanksgiving?
Yes, some KFC locations are open on Thanksgiving, but many operate on reduced hours. A few stores may close fully. The decision is made by the franchise owner, so it changes from city to city.
If your local area has high travel activity, tourist movement, or airport traffic, you’ll find a higher chance of KFC being open.
Typical KFC Thanksgiving Hours
While every store is different, these are the most common Thanksgiving patterns:
Opening:
Late morning, usually around 10:30 am or 11 am
Closing:
Early evening, often between 4 pm and 6 pm
Drive-thru locations may stay open slightly longer than the dining room, but not always. Smaller towns usually close earlier, while busy city locations may stay open longer.
Why KFC Hours Change on Thanksgiving
KFC adjusts hours for several reasons:
1. Staffing
Many employees request time off, so stores may shorten hours.
2. Local demand
Busy cities and travel-heavy areas often stay open longer.
3. Franchise control
Most KFC locations are independently owned, so hours vary widely.
4. Holiday operations
Some stores close early to prepare for Black Friday.
KFC Thanksgiving Hours in Major Cities
These trends may help you guess what to expect:
| City | What Usually Happens | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New York City | Many open with reduced hours | Transit and tourist zones stay open |
| Los Angeles | Mixed hours | Suburbs close earlier |
| Chicago | Reduced or closed | Downtown varies |
| Houston | Mostly reduced hours | Some close fully |
| Phoenix | Higher chance open | Travel areas active |
| Miami | Many open | Tourist demand |
| Seattle | Mixed | Neighborhood stores vary |
Always verify before visiting.
Does KFC Offer a Thanksgiving Meals
Some KFC locations promote holiday bundles, depending on the region. These can include:
- Bucket meals
- Tenders + sides bundles
- Family meal deals
- Larger sides for gatherings
Availability changes by location. Supplies may run out early, so order ahead if available.
How to Check Your Local KFC Thanksgiving Hours
You can confirm your nearest store’s hours in seconds:
1. KFC Store Locator
Search your zip code to see Thanksgiving hours for each location.
2. KFC App
Tap your store → scroll to “Hours” → check the Thanksgiving update.
3. Google Maps
Many stores publish holiday-hour updates on their profile.
4. Call the Store
The most accurate method, especially in small towns.
Tips for Visiting KFC on Thanksgiving
- Go earlier in the day to avoid early closings
- Use drive-thru if mobile order is off
- Confirm hours the night before
- Call ahead if you want large-family orders
- Have backup options if your store closes fully
If you’re comparing fast-food options for the holiday, you can also check our detailed guide on Domino’s Thanksgiving hours to see which pizza locations stay open in your area. Many readers also look for dine-in options, so our Texas Roadhouse Thanksgiving hours guide may help you plan a sit-down meal if you want something different from fast food.
FAQs
Is KFC open on Thanksgiving 2025?
Some KFC stores open with reduced hours, while others close for the day.
What time does KFC open on Thanksgiving Day?
Most open around 10:30 am or 11 am, depending on location.
Does KFC close early on Thanksgiving?
Yes. Many stores close between 4 pm and 6 pm.
Are KFC drive-thru locations open on Thanksgiving?
Some are open, but hours may differ from the dining room.
Can you order KFC family meals on Thanksgiving?
Yes, if your store is open and not sold out.
Is KFC fully closed nationwide?
No. Hours vary by franchise.
Conclusion
KFC can be a convenient option on Thanksgiving, but hours vary widely. Many stores run reduced schedules, and some close fully. Before heading out, always check your local store using the KFC app or store locator. A quick check can save your holiday meal plans.
