Special Law Prevents Some Massachusetts Businesses from Opening on Thanksgiving?

Over the years we have explored some of the oddball laws that are still technically on the books in Massachusetts. We have looked at some of the silly ones including giving/selling beers to hospital patients, gorillas not being allowed in the back seats of cars and the list of ridiculous laws goes on and on.

Check Out Over 30 Strange Massachusetts Laws

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One law I wasn't aware of is an old Blue Law that prevents some businesses from opening on Thanksgiving Day. I just figured these businesses chose to open while others kept their doors closed for the holiday. Now, some of the enforcement behind the law may have changed over the years but according to a few web sources restaurants and hotels can legally remain open on Thanksgiving but retail stores like Walmart, and Target and grocery stores like Big Y, Stop & Shop must remain closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, Veterans Day and Columbus Day unless (and this is key) special permits are granted.

Explanation of Permits to Keep Retailers Open on Certain Holidays in Massachusetts

Mass.gov sums up the Blue Laws exception.

The Massachusetts Blue Laws control hours of operation for certain businesses and require some businesses to abide by voluntariness of employment provisions on Sundays and some legal holidays. These laws are enforced by the Attorney General's Office. The Department of Labor Standards has authority over the statewide approval of local permits allowing businesses to open on Columbus Day, Veteran's Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas when they otherwise could not open for some or all hours on those days.

Which Businesses Can Remain Open on Thanksgiving Day in Massachusetts Without a Special Permit?

• Emergency Auto Parts
• Florists
• Gas Stations
• Lottery Tickets
• Pet Stores
• Small food stores (with three or fewer employees)

Whether you live in Boston, Worcester, Springfield, or anywhere in Massachusetts, chances are you won't find too many retail businesses open on Thanksgiving Day. It is wise to plan early and get everything prepared before Nov. 28.