Planning a Father’s Day outing can feel stressful when you’re not sure what will be available. While Father’s Day isn’t a federal holiday, it’s still an important celebration that affects store hours and restaurant availability. The holiday began thanks to Sonora Smart Dodd, who wanted to honor her father and fathers everywhere, and it has grown into a major commercial occasion.
Most stores operate on their regular Sunday hours during Father’s Day, while many restaurants open early for special brunches and stay busy throughout the day. The good news is that shopping and dining options remain widely available, though you’ll need to plan ahead for popular spots. Many retailers offer special sales and promotions to help you find the perfect gift for Dad.
Understanding which businesses are open and when they operate helps you make the most of the day. You’ll want to know about wait times at restaurants, which stores have the best deals, and how to avoid the biggest crowds. This guide covers everything you need to plan a smooth Father’s Day celebration without last-minute surprises.
Is Anything Open On Father’s Day?
Most stores and businesses stay open on Father’s Day in the U.S. This holiday falls on the third Sunday of June each year, and retailers typically follow their regular Sunday hours.
What’s Usually Open:
- Major retail stores and shopping malls
- Grocery stores and supermarkets
- Convenience stores like 7-Eleven locations
- Gas stations
- Pharmacies
- Restaurants (often with extended hours)
What’s Typically Closed:
- Banks
- Post offices
- Government offices
- Some small local businesses
Restaurants experience one of their busiest days on Father’s Day. Many open early to serve special breakfast and brunch menus. You should make reservations well in advance if you plan to take your dad out for a meal. Popular spots fill up quickly, and walk-in customers often face long wait times.
Shopping hours on Father’s Day usually match regular Sunday schedules at most retailers. Many stores run special promotions and sales specifically for the holiday. You can find gift ideas and deals throughout shopping centers.
Call ahead before visiting any specific store or restaurant. Individual locations may adjust their hours for the holiday. Some businesses close early or have limited staff on Sundays.
If you need last-minute gifts or supplies, you’ll have plenty of options. The day works well for both shopping and dining out with your family.
Father’s Day Hours And Operating Schedule
Father’s Day falls on the third Sunday in June each year. In 2026, that date is June 21st.
Most stores treat Father’s Day like any regular Sunday when it comes to their operating hours. You won’t face the widespread closures that happen on major holidays like Thanksgiving or Christmas.
Typical Sunday Hours for Major Retailers:
- Big Box Stores: 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM or 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM
- Grocery Stores: 7:00 AM to 10:00 PM
- Pharmacies: 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM
- Restaurants: Many open early for Father’s Day brunch
Your local stores follow their normal weekend schedules. This gives you plenty of time to pick up last-minute cards, gifts, or supplies for celebrating father figures in your life.
What You Need to Know:
You should always call ahead to confirm your specific location’s hours. Some stores adjust their schedules based on local needs or staffing. Individual franchise locations may operate differently than corporate-owned stores.
Warehouse clubs typically open at 10:00 AM on Sundays. Department stores usually start at 9:00 AM or 10:00 AM. Hardware stores often open earlier, around 8:00 AM.
Morning hours tend to be less crowded than afternoons. Many families shop in the late morning or early afternoon, so plan accordingly if you want to avoid lines.
Restaurants frequently see heavy traffic during brunch and dinner hours. Make reservations in advance if you’re planning to dine out with your family.
Tips For Visiting Stores On Father’s Day
Plan to arrive early in the morning when stores first open. Most retailers follow their regular Sunday schedules, but crowds build quickly as the day goes on.
Call ahead to confirm hours. While most stores operate on Father’s Day , individual locations may have slightly different opening times. A quick phone call saves you a wasted trip.
If you’re shopping at popular chains, consider using online ordering with in-store pickup. This option lets you browse from home and pick up your gift within a couple of hours at many locations.
Bring your shopping list. Father’s Day shopping gets hectic, especially at hardware stores and electronics retailers. Having a clear plan helps you get in and out faster.
Watch for special promotions and sales throughout stores. Many retailers offer Father’s Day discounts on popular gift items. Read the fine print on coupons carefully, as some exclude use on the holiday itself.
Avoid peak hours between 11 AM and 3 PM. This window overlaps with when families head to restaurants for lunch and when last-minute shoppers rush to stores.
Park farther from the entrance if needed. Shopping centers fill up quickly on Father’s Day, and walking an extra minute beats circling the lot for 15 minutes.
Bring patience and flexibility with you. Lines may be longer than usual, and popular items might sell out. Having a backup gift idea prevents disappointment if your first choice isn’t available.
Father’s Day Gift Ideas At Stores
Many major retailers offer special Father’s Day sections to make your shopping easier. You can find dedicated gift displays at stores like Costco , Macy’s, Nordstrom, Walmart, and Marshalls starting in late May.
Popular gift categories include:
- Tech gadgets and portable monitors
- Grilling tools and outdoor cooking equipment
- Clothing like joggers, swim trunks, and comfortable footwear
- Tools and multitools for handy dads
- Sports equipment and fitness gear
- Subscription boxes and gift sets
Big-box stores typically stock practical items like work gloves, electronics, and BBQ accessories. Department stores carry a wider range from cologne and fashion items to home goods. Warehouse clubs often bundle items together at discounted prices, giving you more value for your budget.
You’ll notice stores arrange their Father’s Day merchandise near the entrance or in seasonal sections. This makes it quick to browse options when you’re short on time. Most locations also offer gift wrapping services during the weeks leading up to Father’s Day.
If your dad enjoys specific hobbies, specialty stores work well too. Sporting goods stores carry equipment for activities like pickleball and running. Home improvement stores feature power tools and yard maintenance supplies. Bookstores stock titles about history, cooking, and other interests.
Shopping in-store lets you see and feel products before buying. You can check quality, compare sizes, and ask staff questions. Many retailers extend their return policies around Father’s Day, giving you peace of mind with your purchase.
