Chick-fil-A confirms whether it will open on MLK Day

Chick-fil-A’s well-known "closed on Sundays" policy is already tough for fans to accept. So when a long holiday weekend rolls around, the idea of the fast-food chain closing its doors for an additional day can feel painful.

That loyalty is well earned. Chick-fil-A was recently named the top quick-service restaurant for the 11th consecutive year, earning a steady score of 83 in the American Customer Satisfaction Index, according to the American Customer Satisfaction Index's 2025 Restaurant and Food Delivery Study.

Martin Luther King Jr. Day, commonly referred to as MLK Day, is a federal holiday observed on the third Monday in January. The day honors the life and legacy of Martin Luther King, Jr., the iconic civil rights leader who played a pivotal role in advocating for racial equality during the American Civil Rights Movement.

While schools, banks, and government offices typically close in observance of the holiday, many businesses and essential workers continue operating as usual, since there is no law that requires them to shut down.

However, restaurants and retailers often set their own schedules, which can cause hours to fluctuate and leave customers wondering which locations will remain open and for how long.

Is Chick-fil-A closed on Martin Luther King Jr. Day 2026?

Chick-fil-A has confirmed on its website that all its restaurants nationwide will remain open on Martin Luther King Jr. Day 2026. Most locations are expected to operate during their regular business hours, though some may have slight variations.

To prevent disappointment and avoid any surprises, guests are encouraged to check the Chick-fil-A restaurant locator on the brand's website or mobile app to find the most up-to-date information about their local store's schedule.

More Chick-fil-A News:

• Chick-fil-A is making a major change to 425 restaurants nationwide
• Chick-fil-A launches a new drinks-based restaurant brand
• Chick-fil-A unveils first-ever innovation to accelerate global growth

Whether customers are easing into the morning with Chick-n-Minis and a Frosted Coffee or stopping by later for an Original Chicken Sandwich combo, Chick-fil-A will be open and ready to serve them. 

Those hosting holiday gatherings can also skip the kitchen stress. Chick-fil-A offers catering options for pickup or delivery, featuring a wide selection of entrées, sides, desserts, and beverages.

Chick-fil-A’s 2026 winter menu

Chick-fil-A has brought back its winter holiday menu for 2026, with several fan-favorite seasonal items available for a limited time at all locations nationwide.

• 30-count Nugget Tray: A party tray with 30 Chick-fil-A nuggets
• Peppermint Chip Milkshake: Chick-fil-A Icedream blended with peppermint-bark chips and topped with whipped cream and a cherry
• Peppermint Chip Frosted Coffee: Cold-brewed coffee and peppermint syrup hand-spun with Icedream and peppermint-bark chips
• Peppermint Iced Coffee: Cold-brew coffee and milk, sweetened with pure cane and peppermint syrup
• Chicken Tortilla Soup: Creamy white soup base with shredded chicken breast, navy and black beans, vegetables, and tortilla strips

Chick-fil-A is also testing two new menu items: 

• Chicken & Waffles Breakfast Sandwich: Available in Original and Spicy
• Chicken & Waffles Sandwich: Available in Original and Spicy

The pilot runs through January 24. Select Baltimore, Maryland, locations will offer both sandwiches, while San Antonio, Texas, locations will only serve the breakfast version.

Chick-fil-A puts a spin on beloved classic treats

In addition to its 2026 winter offerings, Chick-fil-A has introduced two new permanent treats to its menu: the Icedream Float and the Icedream Spin.

These nationwide additions offer a fun take on the childhood favorite ice cream float, and Chick-fil-A's frosted drinks allow customers to mix any fountain beverage flavor with the chain's soft-serve ice cream.  

Chick-fil-A vintage collectible cups

Chick-fil-A is also rolling out five reusable cups during this year's winter season, featuring nostalgic designs inspired by its past. Customers can stop by to purchase all the limited-time cups, with a new one dropping every two weeks.

In addition, those lucky customers who receive the Golden Fan Cup will have the chance to win a year of free Chick-fil-A.

Related: Chick-fil-A keeps quietly raising prices