MINNEAPOLIS — Target stores will be closed on Thanksgiving due to the coronavirus pandemic, but will begin introducing holiday deals in stores and online in October.

Target also said it will mandate that shoppers put on a mask before entering its stores starting August 1, a recommendation in line with what a growing list of retailers, including Walmart, Walgreens, CVS Health, Publix Super Markets and Kroger, are doing as the United States battles the pandemic.

“There’s no question, the holiday season is going to be very different this year,” Target said this week in a blog post on its corporate website. “Just as you’ve trusted Target for safe, convenient shopping throughout the pandemic, you can count on us to deliver that and so much more every week throughout the holiday season and beyond. And while that first bite of pumpkin pie and gifting wish lists are still months away, today we’re giving you a first look at how we’re adjusting our plans to make the holiday shopping experience simple, safe and stress-free.”

Target said its biggest holiday deals will be available earlier than ever this year. “This season, you can count on getting extra-big savings without the extra-long lines, with plenty of opportunities to score the best deals on the hottest items both before and after” Thanksgiving.

Walmart has also said its stores will be closed on Thanksgiving, and analysts expect other retailers to follow suit as they seek to spread out the crowds that might contribute to another round of shutdowns during the all-important holiday period.

“The investments we’ve made in our business and our incredible team have enabled us to move with flexibility and speed to meet guests’ changing needs during this global pandemic,” Target CEO Brian Cornell said in the blog post. “This year more than ever, a joyful holiday will be inseparable from a safe one, and we’re continuing to adjust our plans to deliver ease, value and the joy of the season in a way that only Target can.”

Since March, we’ve introduced dozens of safety measures so guests can shop confidently in our stores. And we’re working on even more ways to ensure that your store experience is as convenient — and contactless — as possible, making Target America’s safest place to shop this holiday season.”

Target is also making 20,000 additional products, including groceries, available for pickup and delivery so shoppers can avoid spending time in stores.