Thanksgiving Earnings for Hospitality Workers: Pay Rates and Tip

Nov 25 / Gary Olding
Thanksgiving is a bustling time for the hospitality industry in Illinois, with venues ranging from fine-dining restaurants to cozy coffee shops experiencing a surge in activity. For hospitality workers, this period often brings opportunities to earn more money, thanks to increased customer volume and higher tipping rates.

Let’s explore the average earnings of different types of hospitality workers during Thanksgiving, taking into account both tipped and non-tipped roles, as well as the types of establishments they work in. The folling breakdown is an average

Our sources and information

Average Pay Rates for Hospitality Workers in Illinois According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), as of May 2023, the average annual wage for food and beverage serving and related workers in Illinois was approximately $27,000, equating to an hourly wage of about $13.00 according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. This category includes positions such as waiters, bartenders, and baristas.

Tipped vs. Non-Tipped Positions:

  • Tipped Positions: In Illinois, tipped employees are subject to a lower minimum wage, provided their tips bring their total earnings up to at least the standard minimum wage. The state allows employers to pay tipped workers a base wage as low as $7.80 per hour, with the expectation that tips will make up the difference to reach the standard minimum wage of $13.00 per hour.


  • Non-Tipped Positions: Non-tipped roles, such as kitchen staff and cleaners, typically receive the full state minimum wage or higher, depending on experience and the establishment. These positions do not rely on tips to supplement their income.


Impact of Thanksgiving on Earnings

During the Thanksgiving period, hospitality workers often see an increase in patrons, leading to higher potential earnings, especially for those in tipped positions. However, the exact increase can vary based on the type of establishment,

  • Restaurants: Full-service restaurants may experience a surge in family gatherings and special events, resulting in higher tips for servers. Some establishments report a 20-30% increase in tips during the holiday season.

  • Bars and Cafes: While bars may see increased activity during the Thanksgiving weekend, cafes might experience a slight uptick in customers seeking seasonal beverages. The increase in tips in these venues is generally more modest, around 10-15%.Considerations for Workers


It's important to note that while the holiday season can bring increased earnings, it also demands longer hours and a higher workload. Hospitality workers should be aware of their rights regarding wages and tips, ensuring they receive fair compensation for their labor.

Sources:U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics: Bureau of Labor Statistics, Illinois Department of Employment Security, Wage Information from the Illinois Employment Security

Note: The figures presented are based on available data as of November 2024 and may vary depending on individual circumstances and specific establishments.

Tipped Positions

Servers (Restaurants and Cafés

  • Base Pay: Servers in Illinois typically earn a base pay of $7.80 per hour, which is below the state’s minimum wage due to the tip credit system
  • Average Tips: During Thanksgiving, servers can expect tips to increase by 20-40%, with customers often feeling more generous during the holiday season. On average, servers earn an additional $15 to $25 per hour in tips.
  • Total Earnings: $22.80 to $32.80 per hour.
  • Venue Differences: Fine-dining restaurants generally bring in higher tips, with some servers earning $200-$500 in tips during a single Thanksgiving shift, while servers in casual diners or cafés might earn closer to $100-$150 in tips.

Bartenders (Bars and Restaurants)

  • Base Pay: Bartenders earn a base rate of $7.80 per hour
  • Average Tips: Thanksgiving gatherings often mean a higher volume of patrons at bars. Bartenders can earn $20 to $40 per hour in tips, depending on the venue and location.
  • Total Earnings: $27.80 to $47.80 per hour
  • Venue Differences: High-end bars or bars attached to restaurants see higher earnings, while smaller neighborhood bars might bring in tips closer to $100-$200 for the night.

Baristas (Cafés and Coffee Shops)

  • Base Pay: Baristas typically earn $14 to $16 per hour as a base rate in Illinois.
  • Average Tips: Tips are generally lower than in full-service restaurants, averaging $2 to $5 per hour. During Thanksgiving, this might increase to $5-$8 per hour due to the holiday rush.
  • Total Earnings: $19 to $24 per hour
  • Venue Differences: Independent coffee shops may see slightly higher tips compared to large chain coffeehouses.

Non-Tipped Positions

Non-tipped workers, including cooks, dishwashers, and hotel staff, rely solely on their hourly wages. (unless they share tips from the front of house (FOH) staff. Here’s what they should expect to earn:

Line Cooks and Chefs (Restaurants and Cafés)

  • Base Pay: Line cooks earn an average of $16 to $20 per hour, while chefs and sous chefs may earn $22 to $30 per hour.
  • Holiday Bonuses: Some restaurants offer small bonuses or extra pay for working on Thanksgiving, typically $50-$100 per shift.
  • Total Earnings: $16 to $30 per hour, plus any bonuses.


Dishwashers: (All Venues)

  • Base Pay: Dishwashers earn $14 to $16 per hour in Illinois.
  • Holiday Bonuses: Dishwashers might receive an extra $20-$50 per shift during Thanksgiving.
  • Total Earnings: $14 to $16 per hour, plus bonuses.3.


Hotel Staff: (Front Desk and Housekeeping)

  • Base Pay: Hotel front desk agents earn $15 to $18 per hour, while housekeeping staff earn $14 to $17 per hour.
  • Holiday Bonuses: Some hotels offer bonuses of $25-$100 for working on Thanksgiving.
  • Total Earnings: $15 to $18 per hour, plus bonuses.

Factors That Influence Earnings

Several factors influence how much hospitality workers can earn during

Thanksgiving:
  • Venue Type: High-end venues and establishments in urban areas like Chicago typically yield higher earnings due to larger check sizes and more generous patrons
  • Customer Volume: Busy establishments mean more tables, orders, and opportunities for tips
  • Shift Timing: Working peak hours—such as Thanksgiving dinner or late-night bar shifts—often results in higher earnings.
  • Experience Level: Experienced workers are often assigned more lucrative sections or busier shifts, increasing their earnings potential.

Additional Perks and Challenges

Free Meals: Many hospitality workers enjoy complimentary Thanksgiving meals during their shifts, which can be a nice perk.

Overtime Pay: Workers who clock in extra hours might qualify for overtime pay, especially in non-tipped positions.

Stress Levels: The holiday rush can be overwhelming, with long hours and demanding customers, but the financial rewards often make it worthwhile.

Conclusion

Thanksgiving presents a unique opportunity for hospitality workers in Illinois to boost their earnings. Tipped employees, such as servers and bartenders, often see the most significant financial benefits, while non-tipped roles may enjoy holiday bonuses or overtime pay. Regardless of their position, hospitality workers play a vital role in creating memorable Thanksgiving experiences for their guests, often at the expense of spending the holiday with their own families. Their hard work and dedication deserve recognition and appreciation.
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