At least in my family Thanksgiving is a bigger deal than Christmas. Mainly because my sibblings and I are grown, and realistically if I want and need something I get it in advance of Christmas.
I think there is clearly a need being met in order for stores to be open part or all of Thanksgiving day. I know they wouldn't continue to be open if they weren't feeding their bottom line.
I think for some being with your family is nice but I know for me personally, I can only spend a fixed amount of time with them before I just need to get away. Thankfully though we all live within 3 miles of each other so I don't have to quite go to the store to escape.
