Is Chick-fil-A Open on Memorial Day?

Yes, Chick-fil-A is typically closed on Memorial Day, like most major holidays. While a few select locations may remain open due to local demand or special circumstances, the vast majority of Chick-fil-A restaurants observe Memorial Day as a day off. This aligns with the brand’s long-standing policy of closing on six national holidays each year, including Memorial Day, in honor of its Christian values and to allow team members time to rest and spend with family. If you’re asking, is Chick-fil-A open on Memorial Day near me?, the safest approach is to verify directly with your local restaurant, as franchise ownership and regional factors can occasionally influence operating decisions.

Quick Answer: Is Chick-fil-A Open on Memorial Day?

In short, no—Chick-fil-A is generally not open on Memorial Day. The chain follows a consistent holiday closure policy across its more than 2,800 locations in the United States. Memorial Day is one of the six federally recognized holidays when most Chick-fil-A restaurants are closed. These closures reflect the company’s mission-driven operating model, which prioritizes employee well-being and community values over continuous operation. However, because Chick-fil-A operates primarily through a franchise model, there can be rare exceptions based on location-specific factors such as airport placements, urban foot traffic, or regional management discretion.

Why Most Locations Are Closed

The decision to close on Memorial Day stems from Chick-fil-A’s foundational principle of observing a day of rest. Founder Truett Cathy established this practice early in the company’s history, choosing to close all locations on Sundays and major holidays. This policy has been maintained consistently, reinforcing the brand’s identity as one that values balance, faith, and service beyond profit. As a result, customers should expect their neighborhood Chick-fil-A to be closed on Memorial Day unless otherwise noted by the individual operator.

Chick-fil-A’s Typical Holiday Operating Policy

Chick-fil-A maintains one of the most distinctive holiday schedules among fast-food chains. Unlike competitors that stay open year-round, Chick-fil-A closes on six key holidays annually:

New Year’s Day
Martin Luther King Jr. Day
Memorial Day
Independence Day (July 4th)
Thanksgiving Day
Christmas Day

This standardized closure list applies broadly across the system, though it is not enforced with absolute uniformity due to the decentralized nature of franchise operations. Each Chick-fil-A is independently owned and operated, meaning that while corporate encourages adherence to the holiday closure policy, final decisions about opening hours ultimately rest with the local franchisee.

Company Values vs. Franchise Autonomy

The tension between centralized brand values and local operational control explains why some variation exists. For example, a Chick-fil-A located inside a busy airport terminal—such as Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport—might choose to remain open on Memorial Day to serve travelers, even though the surrounding standalone locations are closed. These exceptions are rare but possible. Corporate does not penalize franchisees for closing; in fact, it supports the tradition. Still, operators have the authority to adjust hours based on customer demand, staffing availability, and lease agreements with property managers.

Comparison With Other Holidays

Unlike holidays such as Labor Day or Veterans Day, where Chick-fil-A often remains open with regular or modified hours, Memorial Day falls into the category of solemn observance. It is treated similarly to Independence Day and Thanksgiving—as both a patriotic holiday and a day for reflection and family. This classification reinforces the likelihood of closure. In contrast, the chain opens on non-core holidays like Presidents’ Day, Columbus Day, and Halloween, typically following standard weekday or weekend hours depending on the date.

Factors That Influence Individual Store Hours

Even within a national closure policy, several variables can affect whether a specific Chick-fil-A opens on Memorial Day. Understanding these factors helps explain discrepancies and prepares customers for potential surprises.

Franchise Ownership and Local Decision-Making

As mentioned, Chick-fil-A franchises are privately managed. While corporate provides strong guidance, especially regarding brand image and operational standards, day-to-day scheduling—including holiday hours—is determined locally. A franchise owner may assess past sales data, staffing levels, and community needs before deciding whether to open. In high-traffic urban centers or tourist destinations, the incentive to operate might outweigh traditional closures.

Location Type Matters

The physical setting of a Chick-fil-A plays a significant role in holiday operations. Consider the following distinctions:

Location Type	Holiday Operation Likelihood	Notes
Standalone Restaurant	Very Low	Typically follows full holiday closure policy
Shopping Mall Kiosk	Low to Moderate	May open if mall is open and foot traffic expected
Airport Location	Moderate to High	Frequent exceptions due to traveler demand
Hospital or University Campus	Variable	Depends on institutional access and population density

State and Municipal Regulations

While less impactful than ownership structure, local laws can indirectly influence holiday operations. Some states have blue laws restricting commercial activity on certain days, although Memorial Day is rarely included. More commonly, labor regulations, wage requirements, or union contracts (in rare cases) could make holiday staffing cost-prohibitive, further encouraging closures.

Urban vs. Rural Differences

Demand patterns differ significantly between metropolitan and rural areas. In cities like New York, Los Angeles, or Chicago, consumer expectations for food service availability on holidays are higher. Some downtown locations may opt to open partially or fully to meet demand. Conversely, suburban and rural restaurants often experience lower holiday traffic, making closure a practical and cultural fit.

Memorial Day-Specific Considerations

Memorial Day holds unique significance in American culture as a day dedicated to honoring fallen military personnel. While it also marks the unofficial start of summer, its solemn roots influence how businesses choose to operate. Chick-fil-A’s closure on this day reflects both respect for the holiday’s meaning and alignment with its internal values.

Weekend Effect and Extended Hours Before/After

Since Memorial Day always falls on the last Monday of May, it creates a three-day weekend. Many Chick-fil-A locations respond by adjusting hours on Saturday and Sunday leading up to the holiday. Some extend operating times to accommodate increased shopping, travel, and outdoor activity. Similarly, the Tuesday immediately following Memorial Day usually resumes normal business hours without delay.

Limited-Time Offers and Promotions

Despite being closed on the holiday itself, Chick-fil-A sometimes runs weekend-long promotions tied to Memorial Day themes, such as patriotic giveaways, digital coupons, or social media contests. These campaigns aim to boost engagement without requiring physical store operation on Monday. Customers are encouraged to check the Chick-fil-A app or official website for any limited-time deals available before or after the holiday.

Practical Planning Tips for Customers

If you're planning to visit Chick-fil-A around Memorial Day, here are actionable steps to ensure you don’t miss out:

Check Your Local Restaurant’s Hours in Advance

Do not assume all locations follow the same schedule. Use the official Chick-fil-A website or mobile app to search for your nearest restaurant. Enter your zip code or city, then click on the specific location to view detailed holiday hours. Most stores update their calendars at least one week in advance.

Call Ahead for Confirmation

If online information is unclear, call the restaurant directly. Speaking with a manager or team member gives you the most accurate, real-time answer. Keep in mind that automated phone systems may not reflect temporary holiday changes.

Use Google Maps for Real-Time Updates

Google Maps often pulls updated holiday hours from user submissions and business profiles. Search “Chick-fil-A near me” on Google, select a location, and look under “Hours” for any special notes like “Closed for Memorial Day.”

Plan Alternative Options

If your local Chick-fil-A is closed, consider these alternatives:

Eat earlier in the weekend (Saturday or Sunday)
Order delivery via third-party platforms (DoorDash, Uber Eats) if another nearby chain delivers similar items
Prepare a Chick-fil-A-style meal at home using copycat recipes
Visit a different quick-service restaurant that remains open, such as McDonald’s or Wendy’s

Step-by-Step Guide to Verifying Holiday Hours

Visit chick-fil-a.com or open the Chick-fil-A app
Search for your local restaurant using address, city, or ZIP
Select the specific location (important for multi-outlet areas)
Click on “Hours” and scroll to Memorial Day
Look for special annotations like “Closed” or “Holiday Hours”
Call the store if details are missing or ambiguous
Set a reminder to recheck 24–48 hours before your planned visit

Remember: policies can change from year to year. Just because a location was closed in 2024 doesn’t guarantee the same for 2025. Always confirm current status.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Chick-fil-A open on Memorial Day 2025?

No, most Chick-fil-A locations will be closed on Memorial Day 2025, as it falls on Monday, May 26. However, a small number of airport or high-demand locations may open. Verify with your local restaurant.

Does Chick-fil-A offer takeout or delivery on Memorial Day?

If a location is officially closed, it will not offer takeout, dine-in, or delivery services. Third-party apps like DoorDash cannot deliver from Chick-fil-A on days when the restaurant is shut down.

Are Chick-fil-A gift cards valid on Memorial Day?

Yes, Chick-fil-A gift cards remain valid regardless of holiday closures. You can use them before or after Memorial Day at participating locations.

Will the Chick-fil-A app show holiday hours?

Yes, the Chick-fil-A mobile app displays up-to-date hours for each location, including holiday closures. Make sure you’ve selected the correct restaurant in the app.

Why is Chick-fil-A closed on Memorial Day when other fast-food chains are open?

Chick-fil-A closes on six major holidays each year as part of its corporate philosophy emphasizing rest, family, and spiritual values. This sets it apart from competitors who prioritize continuous operation.