Is Panda Express Open on Thanksgiving?

Short answer: Yes—Panda Express is often open on Thanksgiving, but hours depend on the location. Some restaurants operate with reduced hours, while others—especially those in malls or airports—may open later, close earlier, or remain closed.

If you’re planning a Thanksgiving meal around Panda Express, it’s important to check your local store’s holiday schedule before heading out. Below is a clear, up-to-date guide to help you plan.

Is Panda Express Open on Thanksgiving Day?

Panda Express does not have a single, nationwide rule for Thanksgiving hours. Instead, holiday operations are determined by:

• Franchise vs. corporate locations
  
• Local demand
  
• Shopping center or mall policies
  
• Staff availability
  

As a result, many locations do open on Thanksgiving, but they typically run shorter hours than usual. A smaller number—especially mall food courts—may be closed if the mall itself is closed.

Key takeaway: Expect variation by location, not a universal opening or closing.

Panda Express Thanksgiving Hours (Updated for 2025 & 2026)

While exact hours vary, most open locations follow a similar pattern on Thanksgiving.

Typical Thanksgiving Day hours (where open):

• Opening: 10:30 AM – 12:00 PM
  
• Closing: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
  

Some stores may:

• Open later than normal
  
• Close several hours earlier
  
• Offer limited dine-in with takeout only
  

Important disclaimer

Holiday hours can change year to year, and even stores in the same city may operate differently. The best practice is to confirm directly with your local restaurant.

How to Check If Panda Express Is Open Near You

To avoid guessing, use one of the following reliable methods.

1) Official Store Locator

• Visit the Panda Express website
  
• Enter your city or ZIP code
  
• Look for a holiday hours note on Thanksgiving week
  

2) Google Maps

• Search for your local Panda Express
  
• Check the “Holiday hours” section
  
• Look for a banner that says “Thanksgiving hours may differ”
  

3) Call the Location

• Calling is still the most accurate option
  
• Ask specifically about Thanksgiving Day hours
  
• Confirm last order time, not just closing time
  

Using at least one of these methods will save you a wasted trip.

Is Panda Express Open on Other Holidays?

Panda Express is generally more open on holidays than many fast-casual chains, but hours still vary.

Common patterns:

• New Year’s Day: Open (reduced hours possible)
  
• Christmas Eve: Often open (shorter hours)
  
• Christmas Day: Many locations closed
  
• Easter: Many locations open
  
• Independence Day: Open, regular or slightly reduced hours
  

Thanksgiving typically falls between Easter and Christmas in terms of availability—more stores open than Christmas Day, but fewer than a normal weekday.

Why Panda Express Hours Vary on Thanksgiving

Several factors influence whether a specific store opens and how long it stays open.

Franchise model

Many Panda Express locations are franchised. Franchise owners can adjust hours based on:

• Local customer demand
  
• Staffing levels
  
• Operating costs on a holiday
  

Mall vs. standalone stores

• Mall locations often follow mall holiday schedules
  
• Standalone locations have more flexibility and are more likely to open
  

Regional demand

Stores in urban areas or near travel hubs may stay open longer, while suburban locations may close early.

What to Do If Panda Express Is Closed

If your local Panda Express is closed on Thanksgiving, you still have options.

Smart alternatives:

• Order the day before and reheat
  
• Check nearby locations (standalone stores often stay open)
  
• Look for other Asian fast-casual chains with holiday hours
  
• Use delivery apps early in the day (availability drops fast)
  

Planning ahead—especially before noon—gives you the best chance of getting food.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Final Thoughts

If you’re wondering is Panda Express open on Thanksgiving, the most accurate answer is: often yes, but not always—and usually with shorter hours. Because Panda Express operates under a flexible franchise model, checking your local store’s holiday schedule is essential.

If Thanksgiving Panda Express is part of your plan, confirm hours early, order ahead when possible, and keep backup options in mind. A few minutes of planning can save you a lot of frustration on a busy holiday.