Olive Garden to Close Most Locations on Thanksgiving and Christmas

UPDATE: Olive Garden has confirmed that it will close most of its locations on Thanksgiving and Christmas this year, impacting thousands of diners across the country. This urgent decision means that customers looking to enjoy their favorite Italian dishes on these holidays will need to make alternative plans.

The closures will take effect on November 23, 2023, for Thanksgiving and on December 25, 2023, for Christmas. While Olive Garden locations are typically bustling during the holiday season, the company’s latest announcement has left many patrons surprised and disappointed.

Reports indicate that only select locations will remain open to serve customers on these days. As families gather to celebrate and share meals, this move by Olive Garden may significantly affect holiday dining options for many.

The decision comes as restaurants nationwide grapple with staffing shortages and rising operational costs, which have forced many establishments to rethink their holiday hours. Olive Garden’s spokesperson stated, “We appreciate our guests and want to provide them with the best dining experience possible. This decision reflects our commitment to our staff and the quality of service we deliver.”

The company has not disclosed which specific locations will remain open, leaving many customers anxious about their holiday plans. Families who typically count on Olive Garden for a festive meal will need to explore other dining options or consider cooking at home this season.

As the holidays approach, Olive Garden’s decision highlights a broader trend in the restaurant industry facing challenges due to operational demands. This news will likely resonate with many who are accustomed to dining out during the holidays, prompting discussions about the changing landscape of holiday dining.

WHAT TO WATCH FOR: Further details regarding which locations will stay open are expected to be announced soon. Customers are encouraged to check Olive Garden’s official website or contact their local restaurant for updates on holiday hours.

This breaking news is sure to impact holiday gatherings for many families, and as this story develops, stay tuned for more updates on Olive Garden’s holiday operations.