This week, the United States is poised for a unique blend of quiet family gatherings and the frenetic start of the holiday shopping season. While Thanksgiving Day itself promises a pause for most, the subsequent Black Friday sales are expected to kick off an unofficial Christmas buying rush, accompanied by what could be the busiest travel period on record.
Nationwide Shutdown for Thanksgiving Holiday
A significant portion of the American economy will grind to a halt on Thanksgiving Day. Most major national retailers, including giants like Walmart, Target, Macy's, Kohl's, and Costco, will keep their doors closed throughout Thursday. They plan to reopen in the early hours of Black Friday, with many stores welcoming shoppers from 5 a.m. or 6 a.m.
Pharmacy chains are also adjusting their schedules. While CVS will close early, Walgreens will maintain operations only at select 24-hour locations. Grocery stores will generally remain open but are likely to close ahead of their regular timings, with specific hours varying by location.
The public sector is also observing the holiday. Government offices, post offices, courts, and schools will be shut. US banks and stock markets will remain closed on Thanksgiving, reopening on Friday for a shortened trading session that concludes at 1 p.m. Eastern Time.
Logistics and delivery services are impacted as well. Standard pickup and delivery services from FedEx and UPS will not operate on Thursday. However, limited critical services will be accessible at certain locations for urgent needs.
AAA Projects Unprecedented Travel Surge
With schools closed and a long weekend ahead, travel is set to reach unprecedented levels. According to a report from the AP, AAA estimates a staggering 81.8 million people will journey at least 50 miles between November 25 and December 1. This figure is 1.6 million more than the previous year and could set a new record for the Thanksgiving travel period.
The vast majority of these travellers, nearly 73 million, are expected to hit the roads. This decision is being aided by petrol prices that are holding near $3 per gallon, which is slightly below the average from last Thanksgiving.
The skies will be busier too, with approximately 6 million Americans projected to take domestic flights, marking a 2% increase from 2024. The final count, however, could be influenced by potential flight cancellations or delays. Another 2.5 million people will opt for buses, trains, or cruise ships, representing a significant 8.5% jump from the previous year.
A Calm Before the Storm
For countless American households, Thanksgiving Thursday offers a precious window of quiet celebration and family meals. This peaceful interlude is set to be sharply contrasted by the weekend, which is anticipated to become one of the year's busiest periods on the roads, at airport terminals, and at the entrances of shopping centres as the Black Friday frenzy takes hold.
