Is In-N-Out Burger Open on Thanksgiving?
Well, before we answer the question, ‘Is In-N-Out open on Thanksgiving Day?’, here’s a brief overview of In-N-Out’s operating hours.
They usually operate from 10:30 AM to 1:00 AM on weekdays and until 1:30 AM on weekends.
However, all In-N-Out locations are closed on Thanksgiving Day to allow their employees to spend their quality time with their families.
So, plan your visit to the famous burger chain wisely, especially during the holidays.
In-N-Out Burger offers fresh ingredients and a classic menu, with a strong presence in multiple states, especially on the West Coast. Since 1948, they have been praised for their food-quality and consistent working hours.
Is In-N-Out Burger Open on Thanksgiving?
No, In-N-Out Burger locations are closed on Thanksgiving day. This closure allows employees to spend the holiday with their families, reflecting the company’s family-oriented values. For instance, on November 27, 2025, all In-N-Out restaurants will be closed.
Why Is In-N-Out Closed on Thanksgiving?
In-N-Out Burger’s closing on major holidays like Thanksgiving and Christmas shows its commitment to employee well-being and family values.
This practice gives a supportive work environment and showcases the fast-food chain’s dedication to family values. But why exactly is it closed on Thanksgiving? Let’s look at this from several perspectives:
1. Employee Well-being and Family Values
- Family-Centric Culture: In-N-Out prioritizes family values, believing employees should most importantly, spend family holidays with loved ones.
- Work-Life Balance: Closing on Thanksgiving ensures staff gets a well-deserved break, promoting work-life balance.
2. Brand Image and Loyalty
- Positive Brand Recognition: By valuing employees’ time off, In-N-Out enhances its image as a caring and fast-food chain practicing ethical social norms.
- Customer Loyalty: Customers appreciate In-N-Out Burger’s integrity, leading to stronger brand loyalty, leading to a more sustainable and retainable business.
3. Operational and Logistical Reasons
- Consistent Policy: In-N-Out traditionally closes on major holidays, maintaining a consistent operational policy.
- Cost vs. Benefit Analysis: From an ROI perspective, staying open on Thanksgiving may not be profitable due to low customer turnout, as most families prefer to eat at home and spend quality time together.
4. Cultural and Social Holiday Considerations
- Respecting Tradition: Thanksgiving is deeply rooted in American culture. By closing on this day, In-N-Out shows respect for this tradition.
- Community Connection: The closure on Thanksgiving aligns with societal norms, strengthening the company’s community bonds.
5. Competitive Holiday Strategy
- Standing Out in the Industry: Unlike some competitors, In-N-Out chooses values over profit, which appeals to ethically-minded consumers.
- Creating Demand: The scarcity of availability during the holiday can increase demand before and after Thanksgiving.
What Is Thanksgiving Really About? The Story Behind the Celebration
Thanksgiving is a federal holiday in the U.S. and Canada to give thanks for the year’s blessings and harvest. In the U.S., it’s on the fourth Thursday of November, while in Canada, it’s on the second Monday of October.
Thanksgiving dates back thousands of years to ancient harvest festivals and giving thanks to deities. In the U.S., early thanksgiving services were held by Spaniards, French settlers, and English colonists as early as the 16th century.
The tradition began in 1621 when Pilgrims and Native Americans shared a harvest feast. It became an official U.S. holiday in 1863, thanks to President Lincoln, and was set to the fourth Thursday in November 1941. In Canada, Thanksgiving became official in 1879 and was fixed to its current date in 1957.
Today, it’s all about family gatherings, turkey dinners, and traditions like parades and football. Fun fact: Americans ate about 290 million pounds of turkey on Thanksgiving in 2022.
How to Check In-N-Out’s Holiday Hours?
Before heading out to satisfy your In-N-Out craving, it’s a good idea to check their holiday hours. In-N-Out is known for its consistency, but hours can change on special occasions.
Whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, or New Year’s Eve, knowing the exact opening and closing times can save you a wasted trip. Luckily, there are several easy ways to find this information:
- Visit the Official Website: Go to in-n-out.com and check the “Locations” page for specific store hours.
- Follow on Social Media: Check In-N-Out’s official social media accounts for holiday hour updates.
- Call Your Local Store: Use the store locator on their website to find the phone number and call directly to confirm holiday hours.
- Google Search: Type “In-N-Out near me” on Google Maps to see updated store hours, including holiday schedules.
What to Do If You’re Craving In-N-Out on Thanksgiving?
Craving In-N-Out on Thanksgiving can be disappointing since the popular fast-food chain is closed to allow employees to spend time with their families.
With a little planning, you can still enjoy a delicious burger even when In-N-Out is closed on Thanksgiving. Here are some actionable steps to help you get your fix:
- Visit the Day Before or After: Plan by grabbing your favorite meal the day before Thanksgiving or the day after when In-N-Out reopens.
- Stock Up on Your Favorites: Buy extra burgers or fries the day before and reheat them on Thanksgiving. Store them properly to maintain freshness.
- Try a Copycat Recipe: Recreate the In-N-Out experience at home. Look up copycat recipes online to make their famous Double-Double or Animal Style fries.
- Explore Similar Alternatives: Check out other burger chains like Five Guys, Shake Shack, or local diners that might be open on Thanksgiving.
- Order Online from Other Restaurants: Use food delivery apps to find nearby burger joints that are open on Thanksgiving.
- Consider Cooking at Home: Make homemade burgers using high-quality ingredients to satisfy your cravings. Experiment with sauces to get that In-N-Out flavor.