This Christmas, two of America’s beloved dining chains — LongHorn Steakhouse and Olive Garden — will take a break, closing their doors for 24 hours. It’s a surprising move for both brands, which are normally open year-round, catering to the holiday hunger rush. But in a year marked by rising demand for holiday hours and major shifts in customer behavior, this decision reflects a change in how businesses are navigating the holiday season in 2025.
Why Are LongHorn Steakhouse and Olive Garden Closing for 24 Hours?
In a bold move that’s catching the attention of patrons nationwide, LongHorn Steakhouse and Olive Garden announced they’ll be closed for Christmas Day this year. Both brands are part of Darden Restaurants, and the closure marks a significant shift for these family-friendly chains, which typically capitalize on Christmas as a prime dining opportunity.
The decision stems from a mix of factors, including efforts to give staff a much-needed break during the holiday season. While many restaurants remain open during Christmas, especially those in tourist-heavy areas, LongHorn Steakhouse and Olive Garden are bucking the trend, signaling a growing awareness of employee well-being.
In addition to the staff-centered approach, this move could be seen as an effort to appeal to a more seasonal, “at-home” vibe that many customers are embracing. With cooking and family gatherings becoming more prevalent for the holiday, both brands are signaling that they’re putting the season of togetherness ahead of making a quick buck.
Is This a New Trend for Restaurants?
The decision to close on Christmas Day by LongHorn Steakhouse and Olive Garden reflects broader trends in the restaurant industry. While most chains have long maintained the tradition of staying open on holidays like Christmas, there has been a marked shift over the last couple of years. More and more businesses are taking note of employee well-being, with many offering extra holiday benefits or time off. It’s clear that the pandemic has reshaped how people view work-life balance, and this year, it’s impacting the way the restaurant industry operates during the busiest time of year.
While some may argue that restaurants risk losing out on lucrative holiday business, there is also the recognition that, as labor shortages continue to affect the service industry, giving employees time off is a crucial step in keeping them happy and engaged. Restaurants across the country are increasingly investing in their workforce, a trend that is expected to continue well into 2026.
Customer Reaction: Mixed Emotions Over Holiday Closures
The reaction from customers has been mixed. Some feel that the Christmas Day closure is an understandable and even appreciated move. They recognize the value of allowing workers to spend time with their families and respect the brands’ decision to step back during a busy period. For others, particularly those who may have been planning to head out for a Christmas Day meal, the news is disappointing.
“I’ve always gone to Olive Garden with my family on Christmas Day, so this is a huge shift for us,” says Los Angeles local Amanda Ruiz. “But I get it — people need time off too, and it’s nice that they’re taking that time to allow their workers to enjoy the holiday.”
On the flip side, holiday dining traditions are strong, and some regulars might feel the impact. After all, both LongHorn Steakhouse and Olive Garden are staples for many during the holidays, known for their hearty meals and inviting atmospheres. This Christmas closure may be a slight inconvenience for those who rely on them for festive celebrations, but it’s one that many are willing to accept in the spirit of understanding.
What Does This Mean for Holiday Dining in LA?
In Los Angeles, a city known for its vibrant food culture and a melting pot of culinary options, the holiday dining scene takes on a unique twist. While the news that two major restaurant chains are closing for Christmas Day may come as a surprise, it is unlikely to significantly alter the dining habits of Angelenos.
Many Angelenos are already accustomed to holiday dining at upscale eateries, pop-up spots, or local family-run restaurants. The closure of LongHorn Steakhouse and Olive Garden on Christmas Day might just prompt Angelenos to explore more local, independent spots that are staying open. The city’s rich food scene means that even on Christmas Day, people can still find great places to gather and celebrate.
LA’s culinary landscape has shifted over the years, with many restaurants and cafes opening their doors for non-traditional holiday meals. From surf-and-turf feasts to special holiday menus offering globally-inspired dishes, LA’s dining scene on Christmas Day is anything but conventional. However, the closures of such popular chains like LongHorn Steakhouse and Olive Garden do present an interesting shift in the marketplace — one that focuses more on employee welfare and less on the profit-driven mindset that dominated past holiday seasons.
The Takeaway: A Trend Worth Watching in 2026
This holiday season, LongHorn Steakhouse and Olive Garden’s 24-hour closure on Christmas Day serves as a reflection of the changing dynamics within the restaurant industry. With customers increasingly aware of workplace issues and businesses adapting to the demands of a more conscious consumer, expect to see more restaurants following suit. This trend toward employee-centered holiday hours, though not new, is gaining traction, and it could very well shape how we experience dining during the holidays in 2026 and beyond.
For LA’s food scene, the message is clear: this city isn’t just about indulging in the hustle — it’s about respecting the people behind the scenes. In the years to come, we may see more brands in Los Angeles and beyond reconsider their holiday hours, aiming for a balance that promotes family time and fair treatment of staff. As businesses look to become more sustainable and thoughtful about their operations, Christmas Day closures like this could become an industry norm.