Heartwarming Decision or Holiday Disaster? Olive Garden Shuts Its Doors for Major Holidays

If you’re a fan of Olive Garden, you may want to plan ahead this holiday season. The popular Italian-American restaurant chain has announced it will close all 900 U.S. locations on Thanksgiving Day (November 27) and Christmas Day (December 25). This decision gives employees the gift of time with their families, a move that sets Olive Garden apart from many restaurants that traditionally stay open during these major holidays.

The Story Behind the Holiday Closures

For decades, Olive Garden has built its brand around comfort food, generous portions, and a welcoming atmosphere. From endless breadsticks to its signature soups and salads, it has become a favorite spot for families across the country.

But this year, the company is prioritizing employee well-being over revenue. Closing all locations allows staff to enjoy:

• Quality time with family during important holidays
  
• A chance to rest from the typically busy restaurant schedules
  
• Improved morale and workplace satisfaction
  

In a statement, Olive Garden emphasized that this closure aligns with their philosophy of treating both guests and employees like family. It’s a rare but meaningful step in an industry where holiday shifts are often mandatory.

What This Means for Diners

For loyal customers, this closure might come as a surprise. On Thanksgiving and Christmas, you won’t be able to enjoy signature dishes. That includes:

• Unlimited breadsticks
  
• Classic soups like Zuppa Toscana
  
• Fresh Italian salads and dressings
  

While some may be disappointed, it’s also an opportunity to explore other dining options or even try a home-cooked holiday meal.

Alternatives: Restaurants Open on Thanksgiving and Christmas

Fortunately, isn’t the only option. Several chains remain open during the holidays, offering everything from breakfast to full-course dinners:

• Cracker Barrel: Known for its classic Thanksgiving meals, it stays open for the holiday.
  
• IHOP & Waffle House: Perfect for breakfast or brunch with family.
  
• Maggiano’s Little Italy & Romano’s Macaroni Grill: Italian cuisine lovers have options beyond Olive Garden.
  
• Eddie V’s, Fleming’s Prime Steakhouse, Yard House: For a more upscale dining experience.
  

Even within Olive Garden’s own network, some international or remote locations—such as Hawaii, Guam, or Puerto Rico—may have different operating hours, so it’s always best to check ahead.

Tips to Make Your Holiday Dining Stress-Free

1. Reserve Early: Popular restaurants fill up fast during Thanksgiving and Christmas.
   
2. Plan Your Menu: If Olive Garden is a must for your holiday tradition, consider making a homemade version of your favorite dishes.
   
3. Check Opening Hours: Some restaurants may close early on the eves of the holidays.
   
4. Consider Delivery Options: Many local restaurants offer special holiday menus for delivery or takeout.
   

Why This Closure Matters

decision highlights a growing trend in the restaurant industry: prioritizing employee well-being over profit, even during peak holiday seasons. By doing so, they show that:

• Employee happiness is a priority
  
• Family time is valued
  
• Companies can build loyalty and goodwill among both staff and customers
  

This move may also encourage other chains to rethink their holiday hours and consider the human side of hospitality.

Fun Facts

• Founded in 1982, Olive Garden now has over 900 locations across the U.S.
  
• Known for its endless breadsticks, it reportedly serves millions every year.
  
• Despite being Italian-inspired, Olive Garden is adapted for American tastes, which explains its widespread popularity.
  
• Its closures on major holidays are extremely rare, making this announcement a notable shift in policy.
  

For more on major restaurant chains changing their holiday or operational hours, see our detailed guide on Hamburger Chain Restaurant Closures

Final Thoughts

Olive Garden fans will need to adjust their holiday dining plans this year. Whether you choose another restaurant, try a home-cooked version of your favorite dishes, or experiment with delivery options, there are still plenty of ways to enjoy Thanksgiving and Christmas meals.

This holiday season, take a moment to appreciate the employees behind your favorite restaurants—they deserve time with family just as much as you deserve a delicious meal.

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