How Does Sunday & Holiday Hours Work in United States?
Last verified: 2025-06 · Americas
1The Quick Answer
Most US retail operates 7 days a week, but Thanksgiving and Christmas cause widespread closures, and some states restrict Sunday alcohol sales under blue laws.
2What You Need to Know
Unlike much of Europe, US shops, malls, restaurants, and supermarkets are typically open on Sundays with normal or slightly reduced hours. Notable exceptions: Chick-fil-A restaurants are closed every Sunday nationwide as a company policy. Some states retain 'blue laws' limiting Sunday alcohol sales, particularly in the South. Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day see the most widespread closures — plan grocery shopping in advance. CVS and Walgreens pharmacies are open on most holidays. Black Friday (the day after Thanksgiving) is a major retail shopping day with long lines.
3Practical Tips
Practical Tips
- 1Stock up on groceries the day before Thanksgiving or Christmas — even 24-hour supermarkets often close or reduce hours on these two holidays.
- 2Check Sunday alcohol sale restrictions for your destination state before planning a brunch with drinks — some states do not permit sales before noon on Sundays.
- 3Most major tourist attractions and museums are open on Sundays and public holidays, often with higher visitor numbers — book tickets in advance online to avoid queues.
How does this compare?
Sunday & Holiday Hours rules in nearby and similar countries:
OXXO and 7-Eleven convenience stores are open 24/7 every day; government offices and banks close on public holidays.
Shopping malls open seven days a week, banks are closed on weekends, and Carnival (February or March) shuts down most of the country for approximately five days.
Most retail is open 7 days a week, but statutory holidays cause significant closures — Boxing Day (December 26) is a major shopping event.
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