You’re planning a Father’s Day celebration and need to know if you can count on your usual stores and restaurants being open. Father’s Day falls on the third Sunday of June , which means store hours can vary depending on the business. Most major retailers and restaurants operate on Father’s Day, though some may adjust their hours or close entirely since it falls on a Sunday.
The holiday has a rich background that dates back to Sonora Smart Dodd, who wanted to honor her father and all dads across America. Since Father’s Day was officially recognized, it has grown into one of the busiest shopping and dining days of the year. This means you need to plan ahead to avoid disappointment.
Your success in finding the perfect gift or securing a restaurant reservation depends on knowing which businesses will be open and when. We’ll walk you through operating schedules for popular stores, share practical tips for navigating the crowds, and help you discover great gift options that Dad will actually use.
Is Everything Open on Father’s Day?
Not everything stays open on Father’s Day, but most places operate normally since it falls on a Sunday. Father’s Day 2026 is not a federal holiday and takes place on the third Sunday of June.
Most retail stores and restaurants open their doors on Father’s Day. You’ll find major department stores running regular Sunday hours. Macy’s plans to stay open from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM on June 21, 2026, giving you plenty of time to shop for last-minute gifts.
Grocery stores typically maintain their normal Sunday schedules. This means you can pick up ingredients for a special Father’s Day meal without worry.
What closes on Father’s Day:
- Most banks follow their regular Sunday closures
- Post offices remain closed
- Some small businesses may choose to close
What stays open:
- Major retailers and department stores
- Grocery stores
- Restaurants
- Movie theaters
- Entertainment venues
Your biggest concern should be reduced hours rather than complete closures. Many businesses run shorter Sunday schedules compared to weekdays. Call ahead if you need to visit a specific store.
Business hours vary significantly across different companies , so checking their website or calling before you go saves time. Big box stores and chain restaurants almost always open on Father’s Day since it’s a popular shopping and dining occasion.
Plan your day knowing that most services remain available. You won’t face the widespread closures you see on Christmas or Thanksgiving.
Father’s Day Hours and Operating Schedule
Most stores and restaurants stay open on Father’s Day and follow their normal Sunday schedules. You won’t find widespread closures like you see on Christmas or Thanksgiving.
Typical Store Hours on Father’s Day:
- Retail chains: Regular Sunday hours
- Grocery stores: Normal weekend schedule
- Home improvement stores: Standard Sunday operations
- Warehouse clubs: Check individual policies (Costco closes for major holidays but Father’s Day is not listed among their official closure dates )
You can shop for last-minute gifts without worrying about unexpected closures. Major retailers like Walmart, Target, and grocery chains keep their doors open.
Restaurant Considerations:
Many restaurants open earlier than usual to serve Father’s Day brunch. This makes it one of the busiest days of the year for dining establishments.
You should call ahead to make reservations. Wait times can stretch long at popular spots, and some restaurants require advance bookings.
Planning Your Day:
Most shopping hours match regular Sunday schedules , but individual locations may vary slightly. Your best approach is calling specific stores directly to confirm their hours before heading out.
Restaurants often extend special promotions throughout the entire Father’s Day weekend. You’ll find deals on grills, tools, sporting goods, and other dad-focused items at retail stores during this time.
Tips for Visiting Everything on Father’s Day
Call ahead before you leave home. Many businesses change their hours on holidays, and a quick phone call can save you a wasted trip.
Plan your route strategically. Group nearby locations together to maximize your time. Visit restaurants during off-peak hours like 2-3 PM to avoid long waits.
Here are some essential planning steps:
- Check business websites the day before for holiday hour updates
- Make reservations at restaurants at least a week in advance
- Arrive at popular attractions right when they open
- Have backup plans if your first choice is closed or too crowded
Bring snacks and water with you. Even if you plan to eat out, having provisions keeps everyone comfortable during unexpected delays.
Download store apps before you go. Many retailers post real-time updates about hours and crowd levels. You can also check if items are in stock before making the trip.
Consider planning activities that don’t rely on businesses being open. Parks, hiking trails, and beaches stay accessible regardless of the holiday.
Keep your schedule flexible. Build in extra time between activities since many places operate with reduced staff on Father’s Day. A rushed itinerary creates stress instead of enjoyment.
Pack a phone charger. You’ll need battery power for checking hours, making calls, and using GPS throughout the day. A portable charger ensures you stay connected when plans change.
Father’s Day Gift Ideas at Everything
Finding the right gift for Dad doesn’t have to be complicated. You can choose from practical items he’ll use every day or special treats that show how much you care.
Popular Gift Categories for Dad
Tech gifts remain a top choice for many fathers. Wireless headphones, smart home devices, and phone accessories make useful presents. Tools and outdoor equipment also rank high on most dads’ wish lists.
For the dad who enjoys cooking, consider kitchen gadgets or grilling accessories. A quality knife set or cast iron pan will last for years. Coffee lovers appreciate new brewing equipment or a subscription to premium beans.
Budget-Friendly Options
You don’t need to spend a lot to find something meaningful. Personalized items like photo frames or custom mugs add a special touch without breaking the bank. Gift cards to his favorite restaurant or store let him pick exactly what he wants.
Gifts for Hard-to-Shop-For Dads
When Dad says he doesn’t need anything, focus on experiences rather than physical items. Consider tickets to a sporting event or concert he’d enjoy. A cooking class or golf lesson gives him something to look forward to.
Practical gifts work well for dads who have everything. New socks, a quality wallet, or a comfortable robe might seem simple but get used regularly. Thoughtful presents like coolers or coffee makers combine function with quality.
Remember to plan ahead so your gift arrives on time. Many stores offer Father’s Day gift guides to help narrow down your choices based on his interests.
