Planning to grab your favorite Starbucks drink during the holidays?
Whether you’re craving a Pumpkin Spice Latte on Thanksgiving morning, a Peppermint Mocha on Christmas Eve, or simply need coffee to kick off New Year’s Day, there’s one question everyone asks:
Is Starbucks open?
The answer is usually yes—but there’s an important catch. Holiday hours are different from one location to another.
Starbucks operates 16,816 stores across the United States, and the company has the same message every year:
Store hours vary by location and may change based on business and customer needs.
That’s why it’s always smart to check your local store before heading out. While this guide covers the typical holiday schedule for 2026, your neighborhood Starbucks may open later, close earlier, or stay on regular hours.
Let’s break down every major holiday so you know what to expect.
Quick Answers: Is Starbucks Open on Each Holiday?
If you’re in a hurry, here’s a quick look at Starbucks’ expected holiday schedule for 2026.
| Holiday | Is Starbucks Open? | Typical Hours |
| New Year’s Day | Mostly open | 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Martin Luther King Jr. Day | Yes | Regular hours |
| Presidents Day | Yes | Regular hours |
| Valentine’s Day | Yes | 5:00 AM – 10:00 PM |
| Easter Sunday | Mostly open | 7:00 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Mother’s Day | Yes | 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Memorial Day | Yes | 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Juneteenth | Yes | Regular hours |
| Independence Day | Mostly open | 6:00 AM – 7:00 PM |
| Labor Day | Yes | 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Columbus Day / Indigenous Peoples’ Day | Yes | Regular hours |
| Veterans Day | Yes | 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Thanksgiving | Mostly open | 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Black Friday | Yes | Regular hours |
| Christmas Eve | Mostly open | Reduced hours |
| Christmas Day | Varies by location | Around 7:00 AM – 3:00 PM if open |
| New Year’s Eve | Yes | Reduced hours |
Keep in mind that these are general operating windows. Some stores may follow different schedules depending on staffing, customer demand, or location.
Regular Starbucks Business Hours
Before looking at holiday schedules, it’s helpful to know Starbucks’ normal operating hours.
Most U.S. locations follow a schedule similar to this:
| Day | Typical Hours |
| Monday – Friday | 5:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Saturday | 6:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Sunday | 6:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
That said, not every Starbucks works the same way.
A busy downtown café may open as early as 4:00 AM, while some travel hubs operate around the clock.
You’ll also notice different hours if you’re visiting Starbucks inside places like:
- Target
- Kroger
- Safeway
- Barnes & Noble
- Hotels
- Airports
These licensed stores usually follow the schedule of the building they’re located in instead of Starbucks’ standard business hours.
Holiday-by-Holiday Guide
Thanksgiving (Thursday, November 26, 2026)
If Thanksgiving morning doesn’t officially begin until you’ve had coffee, you’re in luck.Most Starbucks locations stay open on Thanksgiving, although they usually close earlier than on a normal Thursday.
Typical Thanksgiving Hours
Most stores operate somewhere around:
7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Some locations open as early as 6:00 AM, while others may shut their doors between 2:00 PM and 6:00 PM.
Drive-thru locations often stay open longer because holiday travel keeps demand high throughout the day.
Why Do Hours Vary?
Starbucks doesn’t set one nationwide Thanksgiving schedule.
Instead, each store adjusts its hours based on local business needs, staffing, and customer traffic. That’s why one location may be open all afternoon while another closes shortly after lunch.
Expect Bigger Crowds
Thanksgiving is one of Starbucks’ busiest mornings of the year.
Travelers, families, and last-minute shoppers all stop by before holiday celebrations begin. If you’re planning to order, arriving early is usually your best bet.
Black Friday (Friday, November 27, 2026)
Unlike Thanksgiving, Black Friday is generally treated as a normal business day.
Most Starbucks locations follow their regular Friday schedule, opening early in the morning and serving customers throughout the day.
Typical hours are close to:
5:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Since many shoppers start their day before sunrise, Starbucks locations near malls, shopping centers, and major retail districts often stay busy from opening until evening.
If you’re heading out for Black Friday deals, grabbing your coffee before the biggest shopping rush can save you time.
Christmas Eve (Wednesday, December 24, 2026)
Christmas Eve is one of Starbucks’ busiest days of the year. Many people stop in before traveling, shopping, or heading to family gatherings. Because of the heavy traffic, most stores open as usual but close earlier than normal.
Typical Christmas Eve Hours
Most locations follow a schedule close to:
5:00 AM – 7:00 AM opening
6:00 PM – 9:00 PM closing
Some stores may close even earlier, with a few ending service as early as 2:00 PM or 4:00 PM.
Drive-Thru vs. Café Locations
If your neighborhood café closes early, don’t give up just yet.
Many drive-thru locations stay open longer to serve holiday travelers. In some areas, they may continue operating until 10:00 PM, making them the best option for an evening coffee run.
Mall and airport Starbucks also tend to stay open later because they match the operating hours of their host locations.
Christmas Day (Friday, December 25, 2026)
Christmas Day is the most unpredictable holiday on the Starbucks calendar.
Unlike some restaurant chains, Starbucks does not have one nationwide schedule. Each store decides its holiday hours based on local demand and staffing.
Is Starbucks Open on Christmas?
The answer depends entirely on your location.
Many stores open with reduced hours, while others remain closed for the day.
If a store is open, you’ll typically find hours around:
7:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Where You’re Most Likely to Find an Open Starbucks
If you need coffee on Christmas Day, these locations usually give you the best chance:
- Airport Starbucks
- Downtown business districts
- Major travel hubs
Neighborhood cafés are more likely to close or operate for only a few hours.
Expect Longer Wait Times
Even when stores are open, they’re usually running with a smaller team than usual.
That means longer lines, slower service, and in some cases, a limited menu. Ordering ahead through the Starbucks app can save you valuable time.
New Year’s Eve (Thursday, December 31, 2026)
Most Starbucks stores remain open on New Year’s Eve, but many close earlier than they would on a regular Thursday.
Typical New Year’s Eve Hours
Most locations open between:
5:00 AM – 7:00 AM
Closing time generally falls between:
6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Some stores may wrap up business even earlier, especially in smaller cities or suburban areas.
If you’re planning to grab coffee before evening celebrations, it’s a good idea to stop by earlier in the day instead of waiting until night.
New Year’s Day (Thursday, January 1, 2026)
Need coffee after staying up to celebrate?
The good news is that most Starbucks locations are open on New Year’s Day.
However, many stores start the day a little later than usual because of overnight celebrations.
Typical New Year’s Day Hours
Most stores open around:
7:00 AM
Closing times vary by location, with many operating until approximately:
7:00 PM
Some high-traffic stores may stay on nearly normal business hours, while others reduce their schedule.
No matter where you are, checking your local store before leaving home is still the safest approach.
Easter Sunday (Sunday, April 5, 2026)
Starbucks is usually open on Easter Sunday, although reduced hours are common.
Some locations may choose to close completely, especially smaller neighborhood stores.
Typical Easter Hours
If your store is open, expect hours close to:
7:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Many customers stop by for coffee before family meals, church services, or holiday gatherings, making Easter morning one of the busier periods of the day.
Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day
These three holidays follow a very similar schedule each year.
Most Starbucks locations stay open, but many shorten their operating hours slightly.
Memorial Day (Monday, May 25, 2026)
Typical hours are around:
6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Some stores may open between 6:00 AM and 7:00 AM and remain open until 7:00 PM or 9:00 PM, depending on local demand.
Independence Day (Saturday, July 4, 2026)
Most Starbucks locations will be open on the Fourth of July.
Typical holiday hours are:
6:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Some stores may stay open later, while others follow their normal Saturday schedule.
Since July 4, 2026, marks the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence, many cities are expected to host larger celebrations than usual. That could mean heavier customer traffic throughout the day, especially near parks, downtown districts, and event venues.
Labor Day (Monday, September 7, 2026)
Labor Day follows the same pattern as Memorial Day.
Most locations remain open with hours close to:
6:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Depending on the store, opening and closing times may shift by an hour or two.
Other Holidays
Several holidays have little or no impact on Starbucks’ regular schedule.
Valentine’s Day
Most stores operate on their standard business hours.
Typical schedule:
5:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Mother’s Day
Mother’s Day is another busy coffee holiday, but stores generally stay on their regular schedule.
Typical hours:
5:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Juneteenth
Most Starbucks locations remain open with regular operating hours.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Stores are generally open and follow their normal weekday schedule.
Presidents Day
Expect regular business hours at most locations across the country.
Columbus Day / Indigenous Peoples’ Day
Most Starbucks stores stay open with no major changes to their operating hours.
Veterans Day
Starbucks generally operates as usual on Veterans Day.
Many locations open around 5:00 AM and continue serving customers until approximately 9:00 PM, following their normal weekday schedule.
Why Do Starbucks Holiday Hours Vary So Much?
Have you ever noticed that one Starbucks is open while another just a few miles away is closed?
That’s because Starbucks doesn’t use one nationwide holiday schedule. Several factors influence when a store opens or closes, especially during major holidays.
Let’s look at the biggest reasons behind those differences.
Company-Operated vs. Licensed Stores
One of the most important things to understand is that not every Starbucks store is operated the same way.
Company-Operated Stores
These are the standalone Starbucks cafés you’ll find on street corners, shopping centers, and business districts.
They follow Starbucks’ corporate scheduling more closely, although local managers can still adjust hours based on customer demand and staffing.
Licensed Stores
Licensed Starbucks locations are operated by another business rather than Starbucks itself.
You’ll commonly find them inside:
- Target
- Kroger
- Safeway
- Barnes & Noble
- Airports
- Hotels
- College campuses
- Hospitals
These stores follow the schedule of the host business.
For example, a Starbucks inside an airport may stay open for most of Christmas Day because travelers are still passing through, while a nearby standalone café closes early.
Quick Tip: If your regular Starbucks is closed on Christmas, check nearby airports, hotels, or large travel centers. They’re often the most reliable places to find an open location.
Other Factors That Affect Holiday Hours
Store ownership isn’t the only reason hours change.
Several local factors also play a role.
Location Type
A Starbucks inside a shopping mall usually follows the mall’s operating hours.
Airport locations, on the other hand, often stay open much longer to serve travelers.
Customer Demand
Busy downtown stores usually stay open later than suburban locations because they continue serving customers throughout the day.
Areas with heavy tourism also tend to extend their holiday hours.
Staffing Availability
Holiday schedules depend heavily on employee availability.
If a store has fewer team members working during a holiday, it may open later, close earlier, or shorten its menu temporarily.
Local Rules
Some cities and states have different labor regulations or operating requirements that can influence holiday schedules.
Because of these differences, it’s common to see two nearby Starbucks stores following completely different hours.
Starbucks’ Massive U.S. Footprint
Holiday hours also vary because Starbucks has a huge presence across the country.
Here are a few interesting numbers for 2026:
- 16,816 Starbucks stores operate across the United States.
- California has the largest number of locations, with 3,040 stores, accounting for roughly 18% of all U.S. Starbucks locations.
- Starbucks first opened in Seattle’s Pike Place Market in 1971.
- The company evolved into the coffeehouse brand we know today after Howard Schultz introduced the Italian café concept following a trip to Milan in 1983.
With thousands of stores serving different communities, it’s simply not practical for every location to follow the exact same holiday schedule.
Major City Holiday Hours (2026)
If you’re traveling during the holidays, here’s a general idea of what you can expect in some of the largest U.S. cities.
| City | Typical Opening Time | Typical Closing Time |
| New York | 5:00–6:00 AM | 8:00–10:00 PM |
| Los Angeles | Around 6:00 AM | 8:00–9:00 PM |
| Chicago | 6:00–7:00 AM | 8:00–9:00 PM |
| Houston | Around 6:00 AM | 8:00–9:00 PM |
| Miami | Around 6:00 AM | 8:00–10:00 PM |
These are only general holiday patterns.
Popular tourist destinations, airports, and downtown locations often stay open longer than neighborhood cafés.
Starbucks Holiday Menu & Red Cup Day 2026
The holiday season isn’t just about store hours.
It’s also when Starbucks rolls out its famous seasonal drinks, festive bakery items, and the much-anticipated Red Cup Day.
For many Starbucks fans, this is one of the biggest events of the year.
Looking Back at Red Cup Day 2025
The 2025 Red Cup Day took place on Thursday, November 13, 2025.
Customers who purchased a qualifying handcrafted holiday beverage received a free limited-edition reusable red cup while supplies lasted.
The reusable cup held 16 ounces (Grande size) and was made with 95% recycled material.
Starbucks also reminded customers that any clean reusable cup—including the Red Cup Day cup—can be brought back year-round to receive a 10-cent discount on eligible beverages.
Red Cup Day 2026 Prediction
As of mid-2026, Starbucks has not officially announced the next Red Cup Day.
However, previous years show a clear pattern.
| Year | Date | Day |
| 2022 | November 17 | Thursday |
| 2023 | November 16 | Thursday |
| 2024 | November 14 | Thursday |
| 2025 | November 13 | Thursday |
| 2026 | Not announced | Likely Thursday |
Based on recent trends, Red Cup Day 2026 is expected to fall on either:
- Thursday, November 12, 2026, or
- Thursday, November 19, 2026
The official announcement will come directly from Starbucks closer to the holiday season.
Which Drinks Qualify for a Free Red Cup?
Not every beverage qualifies.
Generally, customers receive a free reusable cup when they order a handcrafted holiday or seasonal drink.
Popular qualifying beverages typically include:
- Peppermint Mocha
- Caramel Brulée Latte
- Sugar Cookie Almondmilk Latte
- Gingerbread Chai
- Holiday cold foam drinks
- Other handcrafted seasonal beverages
Drinks that usually do not qualify include:
- Regular brewed coffee
- Bottled beverages
- Packaged drinks
The promotion is normally available through:
- In-store orders
- Drive-thru
- Starbucks App
- Delivery services that participate in the promotion
Remember, free cups are available only while supplies last, so visiting early gives you the best chance of getting one.
Holiday Drinks You Can Expect in 2026
While Starbucks hasn’t officially revealed its 2026 holiday menu yet, many customer favorites are expected to return based on previous years.
Seasonal Drinks
- Peppermint Mocha
- Caramel Brulée Latte
- Sugar Cookie Almondmilk Latte
- Gingerbread Chai
- Holiday Cold Foam beverages
Holiday Bakery Items
- Cranberry Bliss Bar
- Snowman Cookie
- Sugar Plum Danish
- Holiday Cake Pops
The holiday menu typically launches in early November and remains available through the New Year’s season, although individual items may sell out before the promotion ends.
How to Check Your Local Starbucks Holiday Hours
Even after reading this guide, there’s one important step you should never skip—checking the hours for your specific Starbucks location.
Holiday schedules can change because of staffing, weather, local events, or customer demand. The good news is that Starbucks offers several easy ways to confirm whether your store is open.
1. Starbucks App
The Starbucks app is the fastest and most reliable option.
You can:
- View current store hours
- Check holiday schedules
- Place a Mobile Order & Pay
- Find nearby locations
If you’re planning to visit during a busy holiday, ordering through the app can also help you avoid long lines.
2. Starbucks Store Locator
The official Starbucks Store Locator lets you search by:
- ZIP code
- City
- State
You’ll see each store’s latest operating hours, available services, and directions.
3. Google Maps
Searching “Starbucks near me” on Google Maps is another quick way to check:
- Live business hours
- Temporary holiday changes
- Customer reviews
- Busy times throughout the day
Keep in mind that Google relies on business updates, so it’s still worth confirming through Starbucks if you’re visiting on a major holiday.
4. Call the Store Directly
Need a definite answer?
Call your local Starbucks before leaving home.
Store employees can confirm:
- Holiday opening hours
- Early closures
- Temporary schedule changes
- Product availability
This is especially helpful on Christmas Day or Thanksgiving when schedules can change at the last minute.
5. Check the Host Store for Licensed Locations
If your Starbucks is inside a:
- Target
- Kroger
- Airport
- Hotel
- Barnes & Noble
its schedule usually matches the host business.
Instead of checking Starbucks alone, look up the operating hours for the building where it’s located.
6. Starbucks Customer Support
If you still can’t find the information you need, Starbucks Customer Support can help.
Customer Service Number: 1-800-STARBUC (1-800-782-7282)
Tips for Visiting Starbucks During the Holidays
Holiday mornings can be much busier than a typical day.
A little planning can save you time and help you avoid disappointment.
Visit Early
Thanksgiving morning and Christmas Eve are two of Starbucks’ busiest times of the year.
Arriving early gives you a better chance of avoiding long lines.
Use Mobile Order & Pay
Ordering through the Starbucks app lets you skip much of the waiting.
It’s one of the easiest ways to pick up your drink during busy holiday rushes.
Choose Airport or Downtown Locations
Travel hubs often stay open longer than neighborhood cafés.
If your local store is closed, nearby airport or downtown Starbucks locations may still be serving customers.
Don’t Wait Too Long on Red Cup Day
Free reusable cups are available while supplies last.
Popular locations sometimes run out before lunchtime, so visiting early improves your chances.
Try Licensed Stores
If a standalone Starbucks is closed on Christmas Day, check stores inside airports, hotels, or large retailers.
These locations often have different operating schedules.
Bring Your Reusable Cup
Starbucks offers a 10-cent discount when you bring back a clean reusable cup for eligible beverages.
That includes cups received during Red Cup Day promotions.
Have a Backup Plan
If every nearby Starbucks happens to be closed, you still have options.
You can find Starbucks products at many:
- Grocery stores
- Convenience stores
- Supermarkets
You can also reload your Starbucks Card through the app and use it on your next visit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Most Starbucks locations are expected to open on Thanksgiving with reduced hours.A typical schedule is around 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM, although drive-thru locations may stay open longer.
It depends on the location.
Many stores will open with reduced hours, while others will close for the holiday.
Airport and downtown locations are usually your best option if you’re looking for an open Starbucks.
Most stores open between 5:00 AM and 7:00 AM and close between 6:00 PM and 10:00 PM.
Some locations may close even earlier.
Yes.
Most stores remain open with reduced hours, typically around 7:00 AM to 6:00 PM.
Yes.
Most locations stay open on the Fourth of July, although some operate on reduced holiday hours.
Since July 4, 2026, marks America’s 250th Independence Day celebration, expect heavier traffic in many cities.
Yes.
Most Starbucks locations remain open on these holidays.
Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day may have slightly reduced hours, while the others generally follow normal business hours.
Yes.
Seasonal favorites like the Peppermint Mocha, Caramel Brulée Latte, and other holiday beverages are typically available from early November through New Year’s, while supplies last.
Often, yes.
Drive-thru locations frequently operate longer than café-only stores, especially on Thanksgiving and Christmas Eve.
The earlier, the better.
Free reusable cups are limited, and popular locations can run out before the afternoon.
You can contact Starbucks Customer Support at:
1-800-STARBUC (1-800-782-7282)
Final Thoughts
Starbucks remains one of the few major coffee chains that’s open during most U.S. holidays. However, there’s no single holiday schedule that applies to every store.
With 16,816 locations across the United States, you’ll usually find an open Starbucks somewhere nearby—but the hours can vary depending on the location, staffing, and whether the store is company-operated or licensed.
Before heading out, take a minute to check the Starbucks app or the Store Locator. You’ll see the latest hours, avoid unnecessary trips, and can even place a mobile order before you arrive.
If you’re planning for Red Cup Day 2026, don’t wait until the afternoon. Visit early, order a qualifying handcrafted holiday drink, and enjoy the best chance of getting a free reusable red cup before supplies run out.
No matter which holiday you’re celebrating, a quick check before you leave home is the easiest way to make sure your favorite Starbucks drink is waiting for you.
