Is Olive Garden Open on Thanksgiving 2025? — Dining Guide

Thanksgiving is one of the most cherished holidays in America a day filled with gratitude, family gatherings, and of course, a hearty meal. But let’s be honest not everyone wants to spend the entire day in the kitchen cooking. That’s where Olive Garden comes in. Known for its warm Italian hospitality and mouthwatering comfort food, many Americans wonder every year: Is Olive Garden open on Thanksgiving?

In this detailed 2025 guide, we’ll answer that question and go far beyond it. You’ll learn Olive Garden’s Thanksgiving hours, menu specials, takeout options, and alternative ways to enjoy their delicious food this holiday season. Whether you’re dining in, picking up a family meal, or just craving their famous breadsticks with your turkey dinner, this article covers it all.

Is Olive Garden Open on Thanksgiving Day 2025?

Most Olive Garden locations are closed on Thanksgiving Day (Thursday, November 27, 2025) so that their employees can spend time with their families.

However, some locations especially in high-traffic areas or near tourist destinations may open for limited hours. These restaurants typically operate reduced hours, such as from 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM, but hours vary depending on location.

Olive Garden Thanksgiving 2025 Schedule Overview

Tip: Always check ahead! You can confirm local hours easily using the Olive Garden Store Locator or by calling your nearest restaurant.

What to Eat at Olive Garden Around Thanksgiving

Even if Olive Garden isn’t open on Thanksgiving Day itself, many families love visiting the restaurant during Thanksgiving week. The menu offers comforting dishes that perfectly complement the cozy holiday mood.

Here are some top Thanksgiving week picks from the Olive Garden menu:

1. Classic Italian Comforts

• Chicken Alfredo – creamy, rich, and always satisfying.

• Spaghetti with Meat Sauce – a timeless dish everyone loves.

• Five Cheese Ziti al Forno – baked perfection for carb lovers.

2. Shareable Family-Style Favorites

• Tour of Italy – enjoy a little of everything: Chicken Parmigiana, Lasagna Classico, and Fettuccine Alfredo.

• Never-Ending Soup, Salad & Breadsticks – perfect for a light pre-holiday meal.

• Family Bundles (To Go) – feeds 4 to 6 people with entrées, salad, and breadsticks.

3. Sweet Endings

• Pumpkin Cheesecake (Seasonal) – a fall favorite that’s often available around Thanksgiving.

• Tiramisu – a classic dessert that’s elegant yet comforting.

• Chocolate Brownie Lasagna – a rich, layered treat for true dessert lovers.

Olive Garden Thanksgiving To-Go Options

If you’re planning to stay home but still want that Olive Garden goodness, the To-Go Family Bundles and catering options are your best bet.

Olive Garden Family-Style To-Go Meals

Available for pickup before Thanksgiving, these meals make it simple to feed everyone with minimal prep:

• Lasagna Family Meal – includes a full pan of Lasagna Classico, salad, and breadsticks.

• Chicken Parmigiana Family Meal – crispy chicken with marinara and melted mozzarella.

• Fettuccine Alfredo Bundle – creamy pasta that’s always a crowd-pleaser.

Prices generally range from $45 to $80, depending on the entrée and serving size.

Catering Options

For larger groups, Olive Garden Catering offers half pans and full pans that can feed up to 12 people. You can pre-order online or through the Olive Garden app.

Pro tip: Order early many locations stop accepting catering orders by the day before Thanksgiving.

Why Olive Garden Is a Great Pre- or Post-Thanksgiving Choice

While most Olive Garden locations close on Thanksgiving Day, the restaurant is a perfect spot for pre-Thanksgiving gatherings or post-holiday relaxation.

Here’s why:

Stress-Free Dining: No cooking, no cleaning just enjoy your meal.

Family-Friendly Atmosphere: Comfortable seating and plenty of space for everyone.

Affordable Italian Favorites: Delicious comfort food without breaking your holiday budget.

Online Ordering: Quick, easy, and ready for pickup ideal for holiday crowds.

Many families visit Olive Garden on Thanksgiving Eve to kick off the celebrations or on Black Friday to take a break from shopping.

Olive Garden Thanksgiving Specials (What to Expect in 2025)

While Olive Garden doesn’t typically offer a “Thanksgiving Menu,” they often introduce limited-time seasonal dishes and drinks during the fall season.

Here are a few to watch for in 2025:

• Pumpkin Cheesecake (Returning Favorite)

• Creamy Mushroom Ravioli

• Herb-Grilled Salmon with Buttery Garlic Sauce

• Fall Sangria or Spiced Cranberry Cocktails

These limited-time items usually appear in early November and stay available until early January.

Pro Tips for Enjoying Olive Garden Around Thanksgiving

1. Reserve Early (if your location opens): Limited locations open for Thanksgiving Day service — book ahead.

2. Order Catering in Advance: Pre-order online by November 25 to ensure availability.

3. Join the eClub: Sign up for the Olive Garden eClub to get coupons and early menu alerts.

4. Check Local Listings: Each franchise may operate differently call ahead to avoid surprises.

5. Use Olive Garden’s Curbside Pickup: Ideal for busy holiday traffic and family gatherings.

How to Check Olive Garden Hours on Thanksgiving

To avoid confusion, here’s how you can confirm if your local Olive Garden is open or closed:

Step 1: Visit the Official Olive Garden Website

Go to www.olivegarden.com/locations

Step 2: Enter Your Zip Code

Type your city or zip code to view nearby restaurants.

Step 3: Check “Special Hours” Section

Each restaurant listing shows special holiday hours, including Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.

Step 4: Call Directly

If you’re unsure, call your local Olive Garden staff will confirm the exact hours for Thanksgiving 2025.

Olive Garden Locations Likely to Open on Thanksgiving

While not confirmed for 2025, based on previous years, the following major city or tourist-area Olive Garden restaurants sometimes open with limited hours:

• Orlando, Florida (International Drive & Disney Springs Area)

• Las Vegas, Nevada (The Strip)

• New York City, New York (Times Square)

• Chicago, Illinois (Downtown Loop)

• Los Angeles, California (Hollywood Area)

Remember: Hours vary, and menus may be limited to select entrées and beverages.

Alternatives to Olive Garden on Thanksgiving 2025

If your local Olive Garden is closed, don’t worry several popular restaurant chains stay open on Thanksgiving Day.

These can serve as great options if you’re craving a sit-down meal on Thanksgiving itself.

Why People Love Olive Garden During the Holidays

There’s a reason Olive Garden remains a top family restaurant every holiday season:

• It’s cozy and inviting the perfect setting for a warm meal.

• The food feels homemade without the effort.

• The staff is friendly, and the experience feels like dining with family.

Even if the doors are closed on Thanksgiving Day, Olive Garden’s spirit of togetherness fits right in with the holiday’s meaning family, gratitude, and comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What holidays does Olive Garden close for?

Olive Garden typically closes on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day so employees can spend time with their families. All other major holidays like Easter, Memorial Day, and Labor Day most locations remain open with regular or slightly adjusted hours.

2. Does Olive Garden serve Thanksgiving dinner?

No, Olive Garden does not serve a traditional Thanksgiving dinner. Most restaurants close for the day, but a few select locations in tourist areas may open for limited hours with a regular menu or limited holiday offerings.

3. What fast food restaurants are closed on Thanksgiving?

Many fast food chains, such as Chick-fil-A, Taco Bell, and In-N-Out Burger, close on Thanksgiving Day. However, some like McDonald’s and Dunkin’ may stay open depending on the location.

4. Do restaurants close on Thanksgiving?

Yes, many restaurants close on Thanksgiving, especially family-style or sit-down chains. However, several casual and 24-hour spots, like Denny’s, IHOP, and Cracker Barrel, stay open to serve holiday diners.

5. Why is Olive Garden shutting down?

Olive Garden is not shutting down nationwide. Occasionally, certain locations may close due to lease issues, low sales, or local business changes, but the brand remains strong and continues to open new restaurants across the U.S.

Final Thoughts: Is Olive Garden Open on Thanksgiving 2025?

In short:

• Most Olive Garden restaurants are closed on Thanksgiving Day 2025.

• A few select locations may open with limited hours (11 AM to 4 PM).

• Check local listings or call ahead to confirm before visiting.

• You can still enjoy Olive Garden’s Family Bundles or catering options before or after Thanksgiving.

So, while Olive Garden might not be your turkey-day destination, it remains a top choice for holiday week dining combining Italian comfort, convenience, and affordability that Americans love.