Applebee’s Christmas Day hours at a glance
Most Applebee’s locations are closed on Christmas Day, but some may remain open depending on the franchisee and local demand. Applebee’s does not keep a single corporate mandate for every restaurant on major holidays, so the only reliable way to confirm a specific site is to check the store’s posted hours in advance through Applebee’s store locator or by calling that location.
How holiday hours work across Applebee’s locations
Because Applebee’s operates as a franchised system, holiday hours vary by market, mall, airport, or strip-center restaurant. Corporate communications typically announce general holiday guidance, but each franchisee can adjust open or close times based on staffing, traffic, and local ordinances. In practice, many franchisees choose to close on Christmas Day to allow teams to be with family, while a smaller group in high-traffic areas keeps limited service. This variability makes a single “yes” or “no” answer impossible without location context.
Franchisee discretion and local ordinances
Franchisees decide holiday hours after weighing customer traffic, labor availability, and municipal rules. Some cities require premium pay for holiday work, which can discourage openings. Others, especially near tourist zones or hotels, may staff for steady demand. Because of this, the same brand can be open at one airport and closed at another nearby restaurant. Treat each Applebee’s as an independent operator when planning holiday meals.
How to verify your local Applebee’s Christmas hours
To avoid a wasted trip, use Applebee’s digital tools and phone checks ahead of time. Start with the official store locator, which often links to each restaurant’s page showing posted holiday hours. When in doubt, call the restaurant the day before or early on Christmas Eve to confirm final service times, menu availability, and any changes caused by staffing or weather.
Quick verification checklist
- Open the Applebee’s website or app and enter your ZIP code in the store locator.
- Click the specific location and review the holiday hours listed, if present.
- Call the restaurant directly to confirm, especially if traveling a distance.
- Check for temporary notices like weather closures or staffing alerts.
- Note that carryout or delivery partners may operate differently than the restaurant itself.
Typical patterns for Applebee’s around Christmas
Industry norms and past patterns help set expectations, though they are not guarantees. Across many years, the chain typically announces holiday service windows in advance via its website and franchisee communications. Popular times often include reduced hours on Christmas Eve and closures on Christmas Day, with a return to regular or slightly adjusted weekend hours on December 26. These patterns can shift year to year based on corporate guidance and franchisee choices.
Applebee’s holiday hour patterns (illustrative)
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Christmas Day closures (typical) | Many locations closed; some open with limited hours | Franchisee practice and historical notice patterns |
| Christmas Eve hours | Often reduced or early close; not guaranteed | Corporate announcements and franchisee updates |
| December 26 service | Frequently returns to regular hours | Franchise post-holiday scheduling |
| Variance by location | Airports, malls, and tourist zones more likely open | Franchisee operational decisions |
| Menu availability | May be limited; full menu not assured | Holiday staffing and supplier schedules |
Planning ahead for a holiday meal or takeout
If you’re aiming to celebrate at Applebee’s on or near Christmas, build in time to confirm options. Consider booking reservations early for December 24 if your restaurant takes them, and ask about holiday menu pricing or special platters. For takeout, remember that kitchen staff may be reduced, affecting prep times. Explore whether your location offers boxed holiday meals or limited à la carte choices, and confirm pickup windows in advance to align with your plans.
Alternative options if Applebee’s is closed
When your local Applebee’s is closed, you still have paths to a convenient holiday meal. Delivery services that partner with Applebee’s may operate under different schedules than the restaurant. Check third-party apps for real-time status, and compare nearby restaurants including other chains and independent venues that might be open. If cooking at home, use the occasion to test simplified recipes inspired by Applebee’s menu, such as fajitas or grilled chicken dishes, to keep the gathering festive without relying on a single venue.