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Maryland Retailers Close on Thanksgiving, Ending Midnight Rush

11/29/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Most Maryland retail stores are closed on Thanksgiving Day, ending the traditional midnight shopping rush.
The trend began in the early 2000s but diminished during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Changes in consumer behavior and public demand for a day off contributed to the shift.
REI (Recreational Equipment, Inc.) remains closed on Thanksgiving and Black Friday because Black Friday has been a paid holiday since 2015 under its #OptOutside initiative.

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Story summary

Most Maryland retail stores are closed on Thanksgiving Day, ending the traditional midnight shopping rush.
The trend began in the early 2000s but diminished during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Changes in consumer behavior and public demand for a day off contributed to the shift.
REI (Recreational Equipment, Inc.) remains closed on Thanksgiving and Black Friday because Black Friday has been a paid holiday since 2015 under its #OptOutside initiative.