Cracker Barrel Holiday Hours
When holiday festivities are in full swing, knowing whether your favorite restaurant is open can make all the difference in planning your celebrations. Cracker Barrel Old Country Store has built a reputation for being a reliable dining destination during the holidays, offering comfort food and Southern hospitality when families need it most. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about Cracker Barrel holiday hours, helping you plan your visits throughout the year.
Understanding Cracker Barrel’s Holiday Philosophy
Cracker Barrel has established itself as a unique presence in the restaurant industry by maintaining operations on most major holidays. Unlike many chain restaurants that close their doors during peak holiday periods, Cracker Barrel embraces a tradition of remaining open to serve travelers, families, and anyone seeking a warm meal during special occasions. This commitment reflects the company’s core values of hospitality and community service.
The restaurant chain operates over 660 locations across 45 states, and their holiday policy generally applies to all locations. However, individual franchise decisions and local regulations may occasionally affect specific store hours, making it essential to verify your local restaurant’s schedule before heading out.
Major Holidays: When Cracker Barrel Is Open
Quick Reference: Cracker Barrel Holiday Hours
| Holiday | Operating Status | Typical Hours | Crowd Level | Special Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | Open | Regular Hours | Moderate | Great for breakfast |
| Easter Sunday | Open | Regular Hours | Very Busy | Special menu items available |
| Memorial Day | Open | Regular Hours | Moderate | Summer travel traffic |
| Independence Day | Open | Regular Hours | Moderate | Patriotic atmosphere |
| Labor Day | Open | Regular Hours | Moderate | End-of-summer travelers |
| Thanksgiving Day | Open | Regular Hours | Very Busy | Traditional dinner available |
| Christmas Eve | Open | Modified/Early Close | Busy | Call ahead to confirm |
| Christmas Day | Open | Modified Hours | Very Busy | Limited hours, special menu |
| Mother’s Day | Open | Regular Hours | Extremely Busy | Busiest day of the year |
| Father’s Day | Open | Regular Hours | Very Busy | High traffic expected |
Thanksgiving Day
Thanksgiving represents one of Cracker Barrel’s busiest holidays. The restaurant chain opens its doors on Thanksgiving Day, offering both regular menu items and special holiday features. Many locations serve traditional Thanksgiving dinner with turkey, dressing, and all the fixings, providing a convenient option for families who prefer not to cook or travelers away from home.
Most Cracker Barrel locations maintain regular hours on Thanksgiving, typically from early morning until late evening. However, expect longer wait times and consider making reservations if your local store accepts them. Arriving early or during off-peak hours can help you avoid the lunch and dinner rush.
Christmas Day
Christmas Day is another holiday when Cracker Barrel shines as a dining destination. The restaurant remains open with modified hours, usually operating from mid-morning through early evening. This schedule accommodates families looking for a festive meal without the stress of cooking, as well as travelers passing through on their journey.
Cracker Barrel often features special Christmas menu items alongside their regular offerings during the holiday season. The cozy, home-style atmosphere decorated with seasonal touches makes it a popular choice for holiday gatherings.
Easter Sunday
Easter Sunday finds Cracker Barrel operating with normal business hours at most locations. The restaurant frequently offers Easter-specific menu additions, including ham dinners and seasonal desserts. Families appreciate the convenience of gathering for Easter brunch or dinner without the preparation hassle.
New Year’s Day
Starting the new year with comfort food is easy at Cracker Barrel, as locations typically maintain regular hours on January 1st. Whether you’re recovering from New Year’s Eve celebrations or simply want a hearty breakfast to begin the year, Cracker Barrel provides a welcoming environment.
When Cracker Barrel Closes: The Exception
While Cracker Barrel prides itself on holiday availability, there is one notable exception to their open-door policy. Christmas Eve and Christmas Day hours may be modified, and some locations close early on Christmas Eve. Additionally, individual locations may occasionally close for severe weather, renovations, or other extraordinary circumstances.
Local management has some discretion in setting holiday hours based on community needs and staff availability, so variations can occur.
Tips for Visiting Cracker Barrel During Holidays
Best Times to Visit During Holidays
| Time of Day | Wait Time | Crowd Level | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6:00 AM – 8:00 AM | 5-15 minutes | Low | Early risers, avoiding crowds |
| 8:00 AM – 11:00 AM | 15-45 minutes | Moderate-High | Breakfast lovers |
| 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM | 45-90 minutes | Very High | Peak lunch rush (avoid if possible) |
| 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM | 10-30 minutes | Low-Moderate | Best overall timing |
| 5:00 PM – 7:30 PM | 45-90 minutes | Very High | Peak dinner rush (avoid if possible) |
| 7:30 PM – Close | 15-30 minutes | Moderate | Late diners, shorter waits |
Call Ahead
Before making the trip, especially on major holidays, call your local Cracker Barrel to confirm their hours. Store phone numbers are available on the Cracker Barrel website and Google Maps listings. This simple step can save you a wasted journey if unexpected closures or hour modifications occur.
Arrive During Off-Peak Times
Holiday crowds can make dining challenging. Consider these strategies:
- Visit during mid-morning or mid-afternoon rather than traditional lunch or dinner hours
- Weekday holidays typically see less traffic than weekend holidays
- The first hour after opening and the last hour before closing are often quieter
Use Online Wait-List Features
Many Cracker Barrel locations offer online wait-list services through their website or mobile app. This feature allows you to add your name to the wait-list before arriving, potentially reducing your actual wait time at the restaurant.
Plan for Gift Shop Browsing
Cracker Barrel’s iconic country store offers a silver lining to holiday wait times. The retail section provides entertainment while you wait for your table, featuring seasonal decorations, nostalgic candy, toys, and unique gifts perfect for last-minute holiday shopping.
Finding Your Local Cracker Barrel’s Holiday Hours
The most reliable way to determine your specific location’s holiday hours is through these methods:
Contact Methods Comparison
| Method | Reliability | Speed | Additional Info Available |
|---|---|---|---|
| Phone Call | Highest | Immediate | Wait times, reservations, menu specials |
| Official Website | High | Fast | Location details, directions, general hours |
| Google Business | High | Fast | Reviews, photos, real-time updates |
| Social Media | Medium | Fast | Special promotions, community updates |
| Mobile App | High | Fast | Wait-list feature, online ordering |
- Cracker Barrel Website: The official website features a location finder where you can search by city, state, or ZIP code. Individual store pages often list special holiday hours.
- Phone Contact: Calling your local restaurant directly provides the most current information and allows you to ask about wait times and reservation policies.
- Social Media: Many individual Cracker Barrel locations maintain Facebook pages with updates about holiday hours and special offerings.
- Google Business Listings: Searching for your local Cracker Barrel on Google typically displays current hours, including holiday modifications, along with customer reviews and photos.
FAQs
Is Cracker Barrel open on Christmas Day?
Cracker Barrel locations are generally closed on Christmas Day, allowing their employees to spend time with their families. However, it’s always best to check with your local store for any specific exceptions.
Is Cracker Barrel open for breakfast on holidays?
Yes, Cracker Barrel is typically open for breakfast on holidays, offering their full breakfast menu. Hours may vary depending on the holiday, so it’s a good idea to check ahead.
Do all states have the same holiday hours?
No, holiday hours at Cracker Barrel may vary by state and location. It’s recommended to confirm the hours with your nearest Cracker Barrel for the most accurate information during the holidays.
Can I order online for pick-up on a holiday?
Yes, Cracker Barrel often allows online ordering for pick-up on holidays. However, availability and hours may differ based on the specific holiday, so be sure to verify online before placing an order.
Conclusion
Cracker Barrel’s commitment to remaining open during most major holidays makes it a dependable choice for families, travelers, and anyone seeking a comforting meal during special occasions. While the majority of holidays see regular operating hours, always verify your local restaurant’s schedule before visiting to ensure a smooth dining experience. With proper planning and flexibility in timing, you can enjoy Cracker Barrel’s signature hospitality and home-style cooking whenever the holiday spirit moves you to dine out.