Is Cracker Barrel Open On Thanksgiving
Surprising fact: many travelers and families look for restaurants on the holiday, and several national chains adjust hours or close altogether. This restaurant keeps its dining room available for guests, usually opening around 11 a.m. and running a shorter evening shift than a typical day.
You can expect classic comfort food like a made-from-scratch turkey n’ dressing meal and familiar sides. Because this is one of the busiest days of the year, joining the online waitlist helps you skip long lines and save time for family moments.
Many locations also offer Heat n’ Serve options if you prefer to eat at home. Check your nearest location’s holiday hours before you go so you know exact opening and kitchen cutoff times today.
Quick answer: Cracker Barrel is open on Thanksgiving Day
If you’re hunting for a warm holiday dinner spot, this restaurant welcomes guests today. The chain confirms most locations serve a made‑from‑scratch turkey meal on the holiday with doors typically opening around 11 a.m.
Closing tends to happen earlier than a regular night, so check local hours before you go. Kitchens may stop taking orders before posted closing, so plan for lunch or an early dinner.
High demand means waits can form fast. Join the online waitlist to shorten time spent at the door. Mobile pay at the table speeds your exit and helps you get back to family time today.
- Yes — many locations are listed as open thanksgiving and serve a focused holiday menu.
- Doors usually open about 11 a.m.; closing varies by location and year.
- Heat n’ Serve family meals offer a no‑cook option if you prefer eating at home.
For exact hours and availability, check the nearest restaurant listing or a trusted source such as USA Today roundups before you head out.
Thanksgiving Day hours at a glance
Holiday hours for many restaurants shift from the usual schedule. You’ll find later openings and earlier closes than a normal day. Below is a quick snapshot to help you plan your meal.
Typical opening: around 11 a.m. (select locations)
Most locations open near 11 a.m. today so teams can prep made‑from‑scratch food and set holiday plates. That is later than the standard morning start.
Typical closing: early evening (about 7-8 p.m.)
Many stores close in the 7–8 p.m. p.m. window. Kitchens often stop taking orders 15–30 minutes before posted closing.
Hours vary by location—customers encouraged to check local
Hours vary by market and can shift in busy tourist spots or highway locations. Customers encouraged to check local time and call if you need the exact p.m. local time or kitchen cutoff.
- Expect the busiest period from late morning to mid‑afternoon.
- Joining the online waitlist before you leave can save time on arrival.
- If you prefer a quieter visit, aim for a late lunch or early dinner and confirm hours at your nearest location.
Is Cracker Barrel Open On Thanksgiving
For travelers and locals alike, a reliable dinner option matters most on the holiday.
Cracker Barrel confirms it will be open thanksgiving and typically opens doors at 11 a.m. Most locations then close earlier in the evening than a normal day. Kitchens may stop taking orders before posted closing, so plan ahead for an early meal.
The chain offers an online waitlist to hold your spot and mobile pay so you can settle the check at the table. If you prefer to eat at home, Heat n’ Serve family meals are available with simple reheat instructions.
| Quick fact | Typical detail | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Opening | About 11 a.m. | Arrive after doors open to avoid early rush |
| Closing | Earlier than usual (early evening) | Check local hours or usa today listings before you go |
| Services | In‑store dinner, online waitlist, mobile pay | Join the waitlist to save time |
| Take‑home | Heat n’ Serve family meals | Order ahead for pickup windows during the year’s holiday week |
Whether you want lunch with friends or an early dinner with family, you’ll find classic comfort food and generous portions. Check local hours in advance to avoid cutting it close near closing.
Thanksgiving dining options: dine in, takeout, or Heat n’ Serve
You have three simple ways to enjoy a classic turkey meal: dine in for a plated holiday dinner, pick up a reheatable Heat n’ Serve, or order carryout to bring home.
If you dine in, expect a traditional thanksgiving dinner anchored by the Turkey n’ Dressing Meal. Plates include roast turkey, cornbread dressing, rich gravy, cranberry relish, and warm biscuits. Service is focused so your meal comes out hot and ready.
For at-home hosting, preorder a Heat n’ Serve Family Dinner (serves 4–6) or the larger Feast (serves 8–10). Both options arrive fully cooked with reheating tips. The takeout packaging keeps components organized and travel‑ready.
- Preordering is essential—holiday quantities are limited and pickup windows fill fast.
- Use the app or website to pick a convenient pickup time and secure your order.
- Mix and match: dine in for a warm meal and take extra sides home for later.
Want more menu specifics or pricing? See the full thanksgiving menu details before you decide.
What’s on the Thanksgiving menu at Cracker Barrel
You’ll find a straightforward, satisfying lineup built around a carved turkey dinner. The in-store meal centers on roast turkey and made-from-scratch cornbread dressing. A ladle of savory turkey gravy and bright cranberry relish finish the plate.
Turkey n’ Dressing Meal with gravy and cranberry relish
The Turkey n’ Dressing Meal is the headliner. It includes roast turkey, cornbread dressing, gravy, and cranberry relish. Portions are ample, so you leave full without cooking at home.
Comfort sides: sweet potato casserole, mac & cheese, more
Comfort sides pair sweet and savory. Expect sweet potato casserole topped with pecans, creamy macaroni and cheese, and green beans. Warm buttermilk biscuits come with the meal for sopping up gravy.
Desserts: pumpkin and pecan pie favorites
Dessert choices are classic. Pumpkin pie and pecan pie taste familiar and homey. The menu stays consistent each year so guests know what to expect when dining at this restaurant during the holiday.
How to check your local restaurant’s holiday hours
A quick check of local hours saves you time and keeps dinner plans on track.
Start online. Use the brand website or the app to view holiday hours for your nearest location. The app shows real‑time updates and lets you join the online waitlist before you leave.
Use the website, app, or call your nearest location
If details still look unclear, call the store. A short call confirms pickup windows and whether the kitchen is still taking orders.
Watch for p.m. local time variations and early kitchen cutoffs
Holiday hours can vary by location. Kitchens often stop taking orders 15–30 minutes before posted closing. Ask about the p.m. local cutoff so you do not arrive after service ends.
- Because hours vary location to location, customers check local times when traveling.
- Save the store number in your phone for last‑minute changes from weather or traffic.
- Remember regular hours outside holidays are usually 7 a.m.–10 p.m. Sun–Thu and 7 a.m.–11 p.m. Fri–Sat.
| How to check | What to confirm | Why it helps |
|---|---|---|
| Website or app | Holiday hours, waitlist, pickup windows | Saves time and avoids surprises |
| Phone call | Kitchen cutoff, seating options | Clears last‑minute questions |
| Save store number | Real‑time changes | Adjust plans if needed |
Using the online waitlist and mobile pay to save time
A few taps in the app can save you valuable time during the holiday rush. These tools help you skip long lines and get to your meal faster. They work well when restaurants are busy and hours shift for the day.
Join the waitlist before you arrive to reduce in-store waits
Use the app or the website to add your party to the online waitlist today. You’ll get updates on your spot so you can plan your drive and avoid standing at the host stand.
- Hold your place before you leave and cut front‑door wait time.
- Receive real‑time alerts so you arrive just as your table is ready.
- Pair the waitlist with carryout if you prefer a quick pickup instead of dining in.
Mobile pay at the table for a faster holiday exit
When you’re ready to go, mobile pay lets you settle the bill without a line at the register. Servers can assist if it’s your first time using the feature in the restaurant app.
Small time savers add up on this busy day. Use the tools to relax and spend more minutes with family instead of waiting around.
Heat n’ Serve holiday meals: what to know before you order
Heat n’ Serve dinners bring made-from-scratch flavor to your table with almost no prep. You pick up a fully prepared meal and reheat at home. It saves time and keeps the menu classic.
Choose between the Family Dinner (serves 4–6) and the Feast (serves 8–10). Both are packaged for takeout and easy to reheat. Core items include roast turkey breast, cornbread dressing, gravy, cranberry relish, and rolls.
“Order early so your pickup slot is locked; holiday pickup windows fill fast.”
Preorders usually open one to two weeks before the specific holiday. Reserve a pickup time to avoid last-minute stress. Pickup windows during thanksgiving week book quickly at many locations.
Reheating instructions are clear and timed so everything is ready at the same time. Add extra sides or an additional pie if you want seconds. These meals travel well if you’re visiting family across town.
This option gives you the same comforting flavors you expect in restaurants without spending all day in the kitchen. It is a simple way to serve a warm thanksgiving dinner and enjoy more family time.
Regular hours versus holiday hours
Regular daily hours give you a reliable plan; holidays often rewrite the schedule.
Standard schedule
Most locations open at 7 a.m. on weekdays and weekends. Sunday through Thursday closing is usually 10 p.m.
Friday and Saturday often run until 11 p.m. This steady routine helps when you plan breakfast or late dinner.
Thanksgiving exceptions
On the holiday many restaurants open later—around 11 a.m.—and close earlier in the evening, often near 7–8 p.m.
Hours vary by location and local time, so kitchens may stop taking orders 15–30 minutes before posted close.
“Call ahead if you aim for a late meal; some grills close sooner than the listed time.”
| Type | Typical | Holiday note |
|---|---|---|
| Regular hours | 7 a.m.–10 p.m. (Sun–Thu), 7 a.m.–11 p.m. (Fri–Sat) | Resume after the holiday |
| Holiday hours | Open ~11 a.m.; close ~7–8 p.m. | Hours vary — call to confirm local time |
| Service tips | Join online waitlist; consider takeout | Plan early to avoid peak p.m. rush |
Cracker Barrel locations open Thanksgiving Day across the U.S.
Across the U.S., more than 660 locations welcome holiday travelers with a homestyle dinner. Most locations begin service around 11 a.m. and wrap up earlier in the evening, so plan for an early meal.
Hours vary by location. Before you drive, check local times on the store page or call the nearest local restaurant to confirm kitchen cutoff and last seating p.m. plans.
Because dining rooms fill fast, customers are encouraged to join the online waitlist before you leave. If you’re on a multi-state trip, map several locations so you can pick whichever restaurant fits your timing.
- With 660+ restaurants nationwide, many locations are open thanksgiving for sit-down meals.
- In busier markets, hours may shift; customers check the store page for updates.
- Prefer a quick stop? Consider alternatives like waffle house or taco bell, though hours for fast food vary.
For up-to-date listings and roundups, check usa today or the brand site this year. A quick call saves time and helps keep your holiday travel smooth.
Other restaurants open on Thanksgiving (hours vary by location)
For last-minute plans, several chains keep doors available with reduced schedules. You can find both fast food and sit-down options across many markets.
Common chains you’ll find serving
Burger King, Denny’s, IHOP, Starbucks, Taco Bell, and Wendy’s generally operate that day. Fast food outlets often run a limited menu and shorter service windows.
What to expect from hours
Hours vary by location. Krispy Kreme often closes around 2 p.m. local time. Maggiano’s may end seating near 8 p.m. Local staffing and demand shape each store’s schedule.
- Plenty of restaurants open thanksgiving include fast food and sit-down chains, but each brand’s hours differ widely.
- If you’re traveling, keep Waffle House in mind as a reliable backup along routes.
- Always check the specific store page or call today to confirm hours and last seating.
- Limited offerings and earlier cutoffs can affect delivery and takeout windows, so plan meals accordingly.
For a quick roundup of chains and regional hour notes, see this list of restaurants open on Thanksgiving.
Restaurants typically closed on Thanksgiving
Many popular chains choose to close their doors on the holiday so staff can spend time with family. That means you should not assume a usual stop will be available for dinner.
Expect closures at Chick-fil-A, Chili’s, Chipotle, In‑N‑Out Burger, Panera Bread, Panda Express, and Olive Garden. Those restaurants often remain closed thanksgiving, so plan an alternate stop if these are your go‑tos.
Some bakeries and coffee shops keep limited morning hours. For example, select krispy kreme locations may close by mid‑day. Fast food choices vary by market, and hours can differ from one location to the next.
Practical tips if your first choice is closed
- Call or check the website before you drive to confirm hours and avoid a dark parking lot.
- Pick a backup restaurant or order a Heat n’ Serve meal to reheat at home.
- Consider an earlier dinner to avoid late p.m. closures and full dining rooms.
- When traveling, map a few nearby locations so you have options if one is closed or full.
With a quick call or a glance at local listings — or usa today roundups — you’ll find a warm meal even if some chains are closed thanksgiving. A little planning keeps the holiday relaxed for you and your crew.
Thanksgiving at Cracker Barrel: travel-friendly and family-oriented
For families on the move, a nearby homestyle restaurant can feel like a warm rest stop and a full meal in one visit.
This chain serves more than 660 communities across the U.S. Many restaurant locations sit close to highways. That makes them handy for road trips and last‑minute plans.
Doors usually open by 11 a.m. on the holiday year. The dining rooms welcome families with kid‑friendly menus and roomy booths. The shop area often has seasonal gifts to grab while you wait.
- If you’re on the road, highway locations make it a convenient stop for a comforting holiday meal.
- Use the app to join the online waitlist and speed up seating. Mobile pay helps you exit fast.
- Heat n’ Serve meals are a good take‑home option when visiting relatives, saving time in the kitchen.
The food leans homestyle and hearty. Expect turkey, dressing, warm sides, and steady service even at peak times. That consistency across restaurants makes this a reliable choice for travelers seeking a sit‑down dinner and a little comfort before getting back on the road.
Tips for peak times and local variations
A little planning for peak times makes the holiday meal smoother for everyone. Aim to arrive earlier in the day whenever you can to avoid the busiest stretch from late morning through mid‑afternoon.
Arrive early; avoid last-minute dining near closing
Avoid showing up close to p.m. closing time. Kitchens often stop taking orders 15–30 minutes before posted close, so plan accordingly and leave extra time for parking and seating.
Expect packed dining rooms; plan waits accordingly
Hours vary by location, and local demand can shorten service windows. Customers encouraged check the app or website for exact p.m. local time and to see current wait estimates.
- Join the online waitlist to cut time at the host stand.
- If the nearest local restaurant is full, consider a slightly farther spot with a shorter quoted wait.
- Have a fast food backup in mind, but remember many chains keep limited holiday hours.
- For takeout, confirm the pickup window so food stays hot and ready.
A small plan goes a long way. With a quick check of hours and a spot on the waitlist, you’ll spend less time waiting and more time at the table.
Breakfast lovers: holiday breakfast is still served
Morning fans need not miss their favorite plate when holiday schedules shift. This restaurant keeps its all-day breakfast approach, so pancakes, biscuits, and eggs are usually available even with a later 11 a.m. opening.
The all-day menu means you can order a breakfast meal at lunchtime. Pair a breakfast plate with a seasonal side if you want a little holiday flavor alongside familiar food.
Because dining starts later, bring a light snack if you rise very early. Check the app or website for any adjustments to the breakfast lineup at your local spot before you go today.
- Breakfast travels well—takeout breakfast makes a warm shareable meal on the road this year.
- Kitchens turn breakfast plates quickly, so this is a smart choice during peak turkey rushes.
- Families often split orders between breakfast and turkey so everyone gets the food they want.
Beyond Thanksgiving: Christmas and New Year’s holiday notes
Planning for December? Knowing which days run shortened hours helps you avoid last‑minute surprises.
On Christmas Eve, most stores run a half day. Many locations close by about 2 p.m. local so teams can head home early.
Every location is closed on Christmas Day nationwide. That makes it one of the few days the restaurant is fully shut for the year.
New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day usually follow regular hours. Expect the full menu and normal service as you wrap up the season.
“If you need pies or sides for a specific holiday, order early—pickup windows fill fast.”
| Day | Typical hours | Tip |
|---|---|---|
| Christmas Eve | Half day; close ~2 p.m. local | Order pies early; confirm local time |
| Christmas Day | Closed nationwide | Plan take-home ahead of time |
| New Year’s Eve / Day | Regular hours | Full menu; normal service |
- Check holiday hours on the app or site and save the store number.
- Heat n’ Serve is a smart option for a stress-free family meal around specific holiday plans.
- Remember thanksgiving day opens later and closes earlier, so schedule accordingly when mapping the season.
Why diners choose Cracker Barrel for the holidays
Many guests pick this homestyle chain because it blends tradition with practical holiday comforts.
Southern comfort food and helpful service
The menu focuses on made‑from‑scratch staples. Roast turkey, cornbread dressing, and classic sides deliver familiar food you expect at a family meal.
Staff work steadily during peak times. An online waitlist and mobile pay keep your visit smooth and quick.
Gift shop convenience and consistent experience
Each restaurant includes a shop with seasonal gifts and last‑minute items. That adds a cozy touch while you wait or browse after dinner.
With 660+ locations nationwide, travelers can find locations open when many other restaurants are closed. This makes it a warm alternative to fast food on a busy travel day.
- Homestyle food that tastes like home.
- Heat n’ Serve options for easy hosting.
- Reliable service and consistent experience across restaurants this year.
Plan your Thanksgiving visit to Cracker Barrel
Confirming a few details ahead saves time and keeps the meal relaxing. Check local hours and ask your local restaurant about the kitchen’s last order time. Most locations open thanksgiving around 11 a.m. and may stop new orders 15–30 minutes before the p.m. close.
Join the app waitlist before you drive. Use the app to get updates and to pay at the table. If your first choice is full, look for nearby locations open thanksgiving with a shorter wait.
Prefer takeout? Preorder Heat n’ Serve and pick an early pickup window during the holiday week. Customers check menus now for pies and extra sides so holiday items don’t sell out.
With a quick timeline—confirm hours, choose dine‑in or takeout, plan travel, and share the plan—you’ll enjoy dinner today with less stress.
