Many consumers wonder whether dispensaries are open on Thanksgiving, and the answer largely depends on state and local laws, as well as individual business decisions. While many dispensaries are legally permitted to open, actual hours vary by state, city, and even county. Some stores close completely for the holiday, while others operate under limited hours to accommodate travelers or locals preparing for the long weekend.
Why It Differs by State
Cannabis retail hours are determined by state regulations, but each state allows local jurisdictions to impose their own restrictions. For example, in California, licensed retailers may sell and deliver between 6:00 a.m. and 10:00 p.m., while cities and counties can enforce tighter limits. Illinois dispensaries can operate within the same time frame, but local authorities may adjust hours as needed. In Colorado, sales are prohibited between midnight and 8:00 a.m., though many municipalities choose to further limit operating hours.
Nevada is known for its flexibility—some areas in Clark County allow dispensaries to stay open 24 hours, while neighboring cities may enforce overnight closures. In Massachusetts, each municipality has the authority to set its own operating rules, meaning dispensary hours can differ dramatically from one town to the next.
Are Dispensaries Open on Thanksgiving?
Even where operations are allowed, Thanksgiving Day tends to see a significant drop in customer traffic compared to the day before the holiday, known in the industry as “Green Wednesday.” Many retailers close for the day or reduce hours, choosing to focus on the surge of sales leading up to the holiday. Industry data consistently shows that Thanksgiving itself is one of the slower sales days of the season.
However, closures are usually business decisions, not legal requirements. A number of states make it clear that Thanksgiving sales are permitted, but each dispensary determines whether to open based on staffing, local demand, and scheduling.
What Shoppers Should Do
- Check Official Channels: The best way to confirm holiday hours is by checking the dispensary’s official website or app. Platforms like Weedmaps or Google often list updated hours during holiday periods.
- Shop on Green Wednesday: The Wednesday before Thanksgiving is typically the busiest day of the week for cannabis sales. Planning ahead ensures you get your preferred products before shelves empty out.
- Confirm Delivery Times: For those using delivery services, cutoff times may be moved earlier due to staffing or state-mandated operating limits. In California, for example, delivery drivers must return to the store by 10:00 p.m.
- Know Local Rules: In some markets like Nevada, dispensary hours can differ block by block. Travelers should always double-check their location’s specific regulations before visiting.
- Bring Proper ID and Payment: Even during holiday operations, all compliance rules remain in effect. Shoppers should carry valid identification and confirm accepted payment methods ahead of time.
A Thought for Holiday Shoppers
Thanksgiving dispensary hours are shaped more by local ordinances and business decisions than by national policy. Consumers planning to include cannabis in their holiday festivities should place orders early, verify store hours, and make arrangements ahead of time. By planning around the rush of Green Wednesday and limited Thanksgiving operations, shoppers can ensure a smooth and stress-free experience.