Applebee’s Holiday Hours 2026
Applebee’s holiday hours change every year, and many people visit without checking the schedule first. Some locations close on major holidays, while others open with reduced hours. This creates confusion, especially on Christmas, Thanksgiving, and Easter.
To help you avoid any surprises, this guide explains Applebee’s holiday hours in a clear and accurate way. You will find updated details for Christmas Day, Christmas Eve, Thanksgiving, Easter, New Year’s, and other important holidays. Every section is designed to give you reliable information so you can plan your visit with confidence.
Applebee’s Christmas Hours
Applebee’s follows a special schedule during Christmas, and hours change across many locations. Most restaurants stay open on Christmas Eve with reduced hours. Many open around 11:00 AM and close early in the evening, usually between 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM. These shorter hours help staff finish work earlier and enjoy the holiday.
On Christmas Day, Applebee’s restaurants remain closed in most cities. Only a few travel-based locations may operate with very limited service, but this is uncommon. For most guests, Applebee’s does not open on December 25.
Is Applebee’s Open on Thanksgiving?
Yes, most Applebee’s locations stay open on Thanksgiving. However, the hours are shorter than a normal day. Many restaurants open around 11:00 AM and close between 6:00 PM and 8:00 PM. The exact timing depends on the city, staffing, and local demand.
A few locations may remain closed, and some restaurants offer a limited menu on Thanksgiving. It is always best to check your nearest Applebee’s to confirm their updated Thanksgiving hours before planning your visit.
Is Applebee’s Open on Easter?
Yes, most Applebee’s locations are open on Easter. However, the hours are usually shorter than a regular day. Many restaurants open around 11:00 AM and close earlier in the evening, often between 8:00 PM and 10:00 PM. The exact schedule depends on the city, staffing, and local holiday demand.
Applebee’s New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day Hours
Applebee’s stays open on both New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day, but the hours may change based on location. Many restaurants operate with reduced hours on New Year’s Eve. Most locations open around 11:00 AM and close earlier than usual, although some busy areas may stay open later for celebrations.
On New Year’s Day, Applebee’s usually returns to regular hours. Many restaurants follow their normal opening time around 11:00 AM and close at their standard nighttime schedule. A few locations may open slightly later if staffing or local guidelines require it.
Applebee’s Hours on Major Holidays
Applebee’s stays open on most major holidays, but the hours often change based on location, staffing, and local rules. Many restaurants follow regular timings, while others open later or close earlier. The table below gives a simple overview of what you can expect on each major holiday.
| Holiday | Status | Typical Hours |
|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | Open | 11:00 AM to 12:00 AM |
| Martin Luther King Jr. Day | Open | 11:00 AM to 12:00 AM |
| Presidents’ Day | Open | 11:00 AM to 12:00 AM |
| Good Friday | Open | 11:00 AM to 12:00 AM |
| Memorial Day | Open | 11:00 AM to 12:00 AM |
| Independence Day | Open | 11:00 AM to 11:00 PM |
| Labor Day | Open | 11:00 AM to 12:00 AM |
| Columbus Day | Open | 11:00 AM to 12:00 AM |
| Veterans Day | Open | 11:00 AM to 12:00 AM |
| Day Before Thanksgiving | Open | 11:00 AM to 12:00 AM |
| Thanksgiving Day | Open in most locations with reduced hours | 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM or 8:00 PM |
| Black Friday | Open | 11:00 AM to 12:00 AM |
| Christmas Eve | Open with reduced hours | 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM or 8:00 PM |
| Christmas Day | Closed | — |
| New Year’s Eve | Open with reduced hours | 11:00 AM to closing time set by location |
Most Applebee’s restaurants follow these general timings, but individual locations may adjust their schedule based on holiday traffic, staffing, or mall guidelines. That is why checking your nearest Applebee’s before you visit is always the best way to confirm accurate timings.
Applebee’s Holiday Menu Specials
Applebee’s offers special holiday meals and drinks every year. These items are available for a limited time and can change by location. Many guests look for these seasonal combinations and cocktails when planning a holiday visit, so checking your nearest Applebee’s is always helpful.
| Item Type | What You Can Expect |
|---|---|
| Holiday Entrée Combos | Options like Honey BBQ Chicken, Double Crunch Shrimp, Blackened Salmon, Top Choice Sirloin, or Riblets. Served with steamed broccoli, garlic mashed potatoes, and crispy onions. |
| Seasonal Cocktails | Drinks such as the Tipsy Reindeer, Sleigh All Day Rita, and holiday-themed margaritas and martinis. |
| Holiday Fountain Sodas | Flavors such as Passion Blue Dew, Cherry Charmed Pepsi, and Mango Dream Dew. |
| Special Shakes and Classics | Options like the Espres-So Happy Martini, Perfect Cranberry Margarita, or Golden Goose. |
| Club Applebee’s Offers | Email-exclusive deals and holiday updates for members. |
For better planning, you can also check the McDonald’s holiday hours and explore the Starbucks Thanksgiving drinks and holiday hours to compare your options before heading out.
Why Applebee’s Holiday Hours Vary
Applebee’s holiday hours are not the same everywhere because several local factors affect each restaurant. The main reasons include:
• Many Applebee’s restaurants are franchise-owned, and each owner sets holiday hours based on local needs.
• Staffing levels change on holidays, which can lead to shorter hours.
• Locations inside malls or airports follow the building’s schedule, which may include early closing.
• Local demand and holiday traffic can affect how long a restaurant stays open.
• Weather conditions or community events may also influence opening and closing times.
Because these factors vary by city, checking your nearest Applebee’s gives you the most accurate holiday hours.
How to Check Applebee’s Holiday Hours Near You
Holiday hours can change from one Applebee’s location to another. Using the methods below helps you confirm the most accurate schedule before your visit.
Applebee’s Store Locator
You can visit the official store locator and enter your city or ZIP code. It shows exact opening and closing hours for each location, including any holiday updates.
Applebee’s Mobile App
The mobile app provides real-time details for every restaurant. It shows updated holiday hours, menu availability, and location information in one place.
Google Maps
Search Applebee’s near me on Google Maps. Many restaurants update their holiday schedule directly on their listing, making it easy to check hours quickly.
Call Your Local Restaurant
Calling your nearest Applebee’s is the most reliable method for holidays like Christmas Eve, Thanksgiving, and Easter. The staff can confirm the exact hours for that specific day.
Checking Applebee’s holiday hours ahead of time helps you avoid surprises and enjoy a smooth visit during the festive season. With adjusted hours and limited-time holiday specials, a quick lookup makes planning easier and ensures you enjoy your meal without any confusion.
If you’re visiting during a holiday, you can also check our Applebee’s Happy Hour guide to see if drink and appetizer deals are available that day.
