Thanksgiving Alcohol Sales Regulations in San Antonio

Festive Thanksgiving dinner table with food and drinks

San Antonio, November 25, 2025

As Thanksgiving approaches, San Antonio residents should be aware of the alcohol sales regulations for the holiday. Liquor stores will be closed on Thanksgiving Day, but beer and wine sales will be permitted from 7 a.m. to midnight. Bars and restaurants can serve beer and wine from 10 a.m. if they also serve food. Some counties in Texas remain dry, so residents are advised to plan ahead for their holiday gatherings.


San Antonio, Texas – As Thanksgiving approaches, it’s essential for San Antonio residents to understand Texas’ alcohol sales regulations for the holiday. On Thanksgiving Day, November 27, 2025, liquor stores will be closed due to state law prohibiting the sale of liquor on this day. However, there is good news for those looking to enjoy a drink during the holiday festivities.

Beer and wine sales are permitted on Thanksgiving Day, with retailers such as grocery stores and convenience stores allowed to sell these beverages from 7 a.m. to midnight. Residents are encouraged to check with individual stores for their specific operating hours, as some may opt to close or operate with reduced hours. For those planning to dine out, bars and restaurants can serve beer and wine starting at 10 a.m. on Thanksgiving Day, provided they also serve food. Additionally, establishments with late-hours permits may extend their alcohol service until 2 a.m., contingent on local regulations.

While most of Texas allows the sale of alcoholic beverages, it’s noteworthy that a select few counties remain “dry,” meaning they prohibit alcohol sales entirely. As of March 2025, only three counties—Borden, Kent, and Roberts—are dry. Therefore, planning ahead is crucial for those in San Antonio who wish to purchase alcoholic beverages for their Thanksgiving gatherings.

Understanding Texas Alcohol Sales Regulations

It’s critical for consumers to be aware of the specific rules surrounding alcohol sales on holidays like Thanksgiving. Understanding these regulations helps locals plan accordingly and avoid any last-minute inconvenience.

Liquor Store Closures

On Thanksgiving Day, liquor stores throughout Texas will be closed, as state law prohibits the sale of liquor on this holiday. Residents should plan their liquor purchases ahead of time to ensure they have their preferred options in stock by the time Thanksgiving arrives.

Beer and Wine Availability

On Thanksgiving Day, residents can purchase beer and wine from 7 a.m. to midnight. When selecting their purchases, consumers should check with individual retailers regarding their specific hours of operation, as some may decide to close or modify their hours in observance of the holiday.

On-Premise Alcohol Service

For those planning to enjoy a meal out on Thanksgiving, bars and restaurants offer a robust option for alcoholic beverages. Beer and wine can be served starting at 10 a.m. if these establishments also provide food. Furthermore, businesses with late-hours permits are allowed to serve alcohol until 2 a.m., based on local guidelines.

Dry Counties in Texas

It’s also important to acknowledge that not all areas in Texas permit the sale of alcohol. As of March 2025, only three counties—Borden, Kent, and Roberts—remain dry, prohibiting all alcohol sales. This unique aspect of Texas’ regulations is important for residents traveling to different counties or for those who may have guests from out of town.

Planning Ahead is Key

With various hours and regulations in place, planning ahead is vital. Residents should make a note of when their local grocery and convenience stores will be operating and ensure they purchase their alcoholic beverages in time to enjoy them during their Thanksgiving celebrations.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I buy liquor on Thanksgiving Day in Texas?

No, liquor stores are closed on Thanksgiving Day in Texas, as state law prohibits the sale of liquor on this day.

What time can I buy beer and wine on Thanksgiving Day in Texas?

Beer and wine can be purchased from 7 a.m. to midnight on Thanksgiving Day. It’s advisable to check with individual retailers for their specific operating hours.

Can bars and restaurants serve alcohol on Thanksgiving Day in Texas?

Yes, bars and restaurants can serve beer and wine starting at 10 a.m. on Thanksgiving Day, provided they also serve food. Establishments with late-hours permits may extend alcohol service until 2 a.m., depending on local regulations.

Are there any dry counties in Texas?

As of March 2025, only three counties—Borden, Kent, and Roberts—remain dry, prohibiting alcohol sales entirely.

Key Features

Feature Details
Liquor Sales on Thanksgiving Day Prohibited statewide; liquor stores are closed.
Beer and Wine Sales on Thanksgiving Day Permitted from 7 a.m. to midnight; check with individual retailers for specific hours.
On-Premise Alcohol Service Bars and restaurants can serve beer and wine starting at 10 a.m., provided they serve food; late-hours permits may extend service until 2 a.m.
Dry Counties in Texas As of March 2025, only Borden, Kent, and Roberts counties remain dry.

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STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER

The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.

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