Panda Express Holiday Hours 2026: Complete Open and Closed Schedule
Planning to grab Orange Chicken on a holiday? Before you head out, it’s smart to check Panda Express holiday hours. Many locations stay open on major holidays, but some close or reduce hours on special days like Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Panda Express follows a mostly consistent schedule across the United States. However, mall locations, airport stores, and drive-thru units may adjust hours depending on demand and local rules. That is why confirming holiday timing is always important.
In this guide, we cover complete Panda Express holiday hours for 2026, including open and closed days, Christmas Eve hours, Easter schedule, and tips for visiting during busy holiday periods.
Quick Answer: Is Panda Express Open on Holidays?
Panda Express is open on most federal holidays. The chain usually closes on Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day nationwide. Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve often follow reduced hours. Easter, Memorial Day, Labor Day, and New Year’s Day are typically open, but hours may vary by location.
Panda Express Holiday Hours 2026 (Full Schedule)
Below is a general overview of Panda Express holiday hours followed by most locations.
| Holiday | Open or Closed | Typical Hours |
|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | Open | Regular Hours |
| Martin Luther King Jr. Day | Open | Regular Hours |
| Presidents Day | Open | Regular Hours |
| Easter Sunday | Open (varies) | Reduced or Regular |
| Memorial Day | Open | Regular Hours |
| Independence Day | Open | May Vary |
| Labor Day | Open | Regular Hours |
| Veterans Day | Open | Regular Hours |
| Thanksgiving Day | Closed | Closed |
| Black Friday | Open | Regular Hours |
| Christmas Eve | Open | Early Closing |
| Christmas Day | Closed | Closed |
| New Year’s Eve | Open | Reduced Hours |
These Panda Express holiday hours reflect typical nationwide patterns. Always confirm your local store timing before visiting.
Is Panda Express Open on Thanksgiving?
No. Panda Express is closed on Thanksgiving Day. All major locations shut down so employees can spend time with their families.
If you are planning a Thanksgiving gathering, consider ordering your favorite meals a day before.
Is Panda Express Open on Christmas?
Panda Express is closed nationwide on Christmas Day. You cannot dine in, order takeout, or place delivery orders on December 25.
Most stores reopen the next day with regular hours.
Panda Express Christmas Eve Hours
Many customers search specifically for Panda Express Christmas Eve hours.
Most locations remain open on December 24, but they usually close earlier than normal. Many stores close around early evening hours to prepare for Christmas Day closure.
If you are planning dinner on Christmas Eve, visit earlier in the afternoon to avoid early closing surprises.
Is Panda Express Open on New Year’s Day?
Yes, most Panda Express locations stay open on New Year’s Day. Hours usually follow regular operating schedules.
Some locations may reduce hours slightly, especially in malls or shopping centers.
Is Panda Express Open on Easter?
Most Panda Express restaurants are open on Easter Sunday. However, hours can vary depending on location and mall schedules.
If your local store operates inside a mall, Easter hours may follow mall timing.
Is Panda Express Open on Memorial Day?
Yes, Panda Express is typically open on Memorial Day with regular business hours. Many customers visit during holiday weekend travel and gatherings.
Is Panda Express Open on Labor Day?
Yes, most Panda Express locations stay open on Labor Day. Regular hours usually apply unless local schedules differ.
Panda Express Regular Operating Hours
Understanding regular hours helps you compare holiday changes.
| Day | Opening Time | Closing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | 10:30 AM | 9:30 PM |
| Tuesday | 10:30 AM | 9:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 10:30 AM | 9:30 PM |
| Thursday | 10:30 AM | 9:30 PM |
| Friday | 10:30 AM | 10:00 PM |
| Saturday | 10:30 AM | 10:00 PM |
| Sunday | 11:00 AM | 9:00 PM |
Planning multiple holiday meals? Be sure to review our updated Panera Bread Holiday Hours guide to compare open and closed days before visiting.
What Time Does Panda Close?
Many customers ask what time Panda closes during holidays.
Most locations close around evening hours, typically between 9:00 PM and 10:00 PM. On holidays like Christmas Eve or New Year’s Eve, stores may close earlier.
Always check your local store to confirm the exact closing time.
Panda Express Drive Thru Holiday Hours

Drive-thru locations usually follow the same Panda Express holiday hours as dine-in stores. However, some high-traffic drive-thru units may stay open slightly later during weekends.
Holiday evenings can be busy, so ordering through drive-thru may help avoid long indoor lines.
Panda Express Catering Holiday Hours
Panda Express offers catering services during most open holidays. Catering orders are popular for:
• Office parties
• Family gatherings
• Holiday celebrations
Catering is not available on Thanksgiving or Christmas Day. Placing orders in advance ensures better availability during busy holiday weeks.
Panda Express Delivery Holiday Hours
Delivery through the Panda Express app or third-party platforms operates during open holiday hours. Delivery times depend on driver availability and store traffic.
During peak holidays, delivery wait times may increase. Ordering early helps avoid delays.
Why Panda Express Holiday Hours Vary by Location
Holiday timing can differ for several reasons:
• Mall operating schedules
• Airport locations
• College campus stores
• Weather conditions
• Local management policies
Standalone stores may follow slightly different hours than mall-based locations.
How to Check Panda Express Holiday Hours Near You

To confirm accurate Panda Express holiday hours, follow these steps:
- Visit the official Panda Express website.
- Use the store locator tool.
- Select your nearest location.
- Review holiday hours and special notes.
- Call the store directly if needed.
Best Time to Visit Panda Express During Holidays
Planning your visit helps avoid long waits.
• Visit earlier in the day on Christmas Eve
• Avoid peak times between 12:00 PM and 1:00 PM
• Skip dinner rush between 6:00 PM and 7:00 PM
• Order online to save time
Holiday evenings tend to be the busiest.
Popular Panda Express Holiday Menu Items

During open holidays, customers often enjoy:
• The Original Orange Chicken
• Honey Walnut Shrimp
• Beijing Beef
• Kung Pao Chicken
• Fried Rice and Chow Mein
FAQs
Is Panda Express open on Thanksgiving?
No, Panda Express is closed on Thanksgiving Day.
Is Panda Express open on Christmas?
No, all locations are closed on Christmas Day.
Is Panda Express open on Easter?
Yes, most locations are open, but hours may vary.
Is Panda Express open on Memorial Day?
Yes, most locations operate with regular hours.
What time does Panda close?
Most stores close between 9:00 PM and 10:00 PM, depending on location.
How We Verified Panda Express Holiday Hours
This information is based on official store listings, nationwide operating patterns, and multiple location schedule comparisons. Because individual stores operate under local management, verifying your nearest location ensures accurate timing.
Conclusion
Understanding Panda Express holiday hours helps you plan meals without last-minute surprises. Most locations stay open on major holidays, but Panda Express closes on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day. Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve may follow reduced hours.
