Although some nationwide chain stores might advertise holiday sales on Thanksgiving, Maine residents should remember that most of the state’s retail stores will be closed today.

A state law prohibits retail businesses with more than 5,000 square feet of selling space and more than five employees from operating on Thanksgiving Day.

Ads in newspapers and on television and radio may encourage shoppers to take advantage of special deals today because other states allow retailers to open their doors on the holiday.

Shoppers should read the fine print on fliers to find out when advertised specials apply. Many stores open early on Friday. Kohl’s and J.C. Penney in Bangor, for example, will open at 4 a.m. Wal-Mart Supercenter in Brewer and the Bangor Mall, Macy’s, Sears and Toys “R” Us in Bangor all open at 5 a.m. Target and Epic Sports in Bangor open at 6 a.m.