Olive Garden Closes on Thanksgiving and Christmas Holidays
Olive Garden has announced a notable change to its holiday schedule. All 900 locations across the United States will be closed on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. This decision reflects the company’s commitment to allowing employees time to spend with their families during these significant holidays.
Closure Details for Holiday Dining
Families wanting to dine at Olive Garden on November 27 for Thanksgiving or December 25 for Christmas will need alternative plans. The closure pattern applies uniformly across the chain, which emphasizes family values for its staff.
Employee-Focused Policy
According to Olive Garden’s official website, the closures are meant to give employees the opportunity to enjoy these important holidays. This shift aligns with Olive Garden’s longstanding slogan of treating guests like family by extending that sentiment to its workers.
Exceptions in Certain Locations
- Restaurants in Hawaii, Guam, and Puerto Rico may have different holiday hours.
- International locations may also follow varied schedules.
Customers planning to visit these areas should contact their local Olive Garden for precise holiday availability.
Potential Early Closures
Customers should also be aware that individual Olive Garden locations might close early on the days preceding each holiday. On November 26 and Christmas Eve, early closure will depend on customer traffic and restaurant management choices.
Planning Ahead for Holiday Dining
Olive Garden recommends that customers call their preferred restaurant in advance, especially on the days leading up to Thanksgiving and Christmas. This can help prevent any surprises with early closures or modified hours.
Regular Hours Post-Holiday
All Olive Garden locations will resume regular operating hours the day after each holiday. Restaurants will reopen on November 28, following Thanksgiving, and on December 26, after Christmas.
Industry Trends on Holiday Closures
Olive Garden’s decision aligns with a growing trend among major companies like Walmart and Costco, which have opted to close on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. This shift signifies an industry move toward prioritizing employee wellness and work-life balance, showcasing corporate values that resonate with both workers and customers.
Alternative Italian Dining Options
For those wanting Italian cuisine over the holidays, several chains plan to remain open. The following restaurants are anticipated to operate on these major holidays:
- Bravo! Italian Kitchen – Thanksgiving
- Brio Italian Grill – Thanksgiving and Christmas
- Romano’s Macaroni Grill – Christmas
- Buca di Beppo – Thanksgiving
Given the variable nature of holiday scheduling, it’s advisable to confirm hours with any restaurant before visiting.
Avoiding Holiday Disappointment
As the holiday season approaches, making dining reservations and verifying hours can prevent last-minute disappointments. The dining landscape continues to evolve, highlighting the importance of confirming availability for those planning to dine out on Thanksgiving or Christmas.
