If you were planning to swing by Chick-fil-A for some nuggets or a spicy deluxe on Easter Sunday, think again. The chain has confirmed it will close all of its 3,000+ locations for 24 hours on April 20, 2025, no exceptions.
This move isn’t out of the blue. Chick-fil-A has always closed on Sundays, and the same rule applies for Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. The policy goes back to the company’s roots and founder S. Truett Cathy’s commitment to giving employees a day off for rest, family, or worship.
So if you’re craving that chicken sandwich come Easter, you’ll need a Plan B.
Popeyes and Others Ready to Step In
Popeyes, a top competitor, is expected to be open on Easter Sunday. Hours might vary by location, but the Louisiana-based chain typically operates on major holidays. So if you’re looking for a chicken fix, Popeyes is likely your best bet.
Cracker Barrel, Golden Corral, and some Applebee’s locations are also staying open on Easter. That means sit-down and buffet-style meals will still be on the table if you’re looking for something more traditional or last-minute.
Fast Food and Grocery Closures to Watch
Chick-fil-A isn’t the only chain hitting pause for the holiday. Wendy’s and Cava are among those also closing their doors on Easter.
As for big-name retailers, here’s a quick cheat sheet on who’s open and who’s not:
Open on Easter Sunday (hours may vary):
- CVS
- Dollar Tree
- Walgreens
- Trader Joe’s
- Whole Foods
- Kroger
- Walmart
- Home Depot
- Dollar General
Closed on Easter Sunday:
- Target
- Costco
- Aldi
- Sam’s Club
- Publix
- JCPenney
- Macy’s
- Kohl’s
- Lowe’s
- Best Buy
- Marshalls
- H-E-B
- Michaels
Don’t Assume, Check Ahead
Just because a chain is typically open on holidays doesn’t mean your local store will be. Easter Sunday hours can vary a lot depending on where you are, especially with independent franchises. So call ahead or check online before making the trip.
Last-Minute Shopping? Dollar Tree’s Got You
If you’re scrambling for Easter candy, gift wrap, or those $1.25 basket fillers, Dollar Tree will be open and stocked. The chain confirmed its 16,800 stores across the U.S. and Canada will stay open on April 20, making it a solid option for late shoppers.
Expect the usual spring clearance deals and maybe even a few surprise discounts. They’re pushing bunny figurines for $3 and Easter basket items that are significantly cheaper than at big-box stores like Walmart.
If Chick-fil-A is part of your weekend routine, don’t get caught off guard. They’ll be closed all day on Easter Sunday. Plan ahead, hit up Popeyes if you still want chicken, and check local hours for any store visits. You’ve got options, but you’ve also got to check the calendar.
