Thanksgiving 2025: When Is It?

Thanksgiving in the United States is celebrated each November, but the exact date changes every year. In 2025, Thanksgiving will be on Thursday, November 27th. This guide provides everything you need to know about the holiday, from its historical roots to how families celebrate today.

What Day Is Thanksgiving in 2025?

Thanksgiving always falls on the fourth Thursday of November. This tradition was officially established by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1939 and later affirmed by Congress in 1941.

Understanding the Thanksgiving Date Tradition

The fixed-Thursday format ensures a consistent late-November date, allowing for structured planning of holiday events, travel, and the subsequent Black Friday shopping day.

The History of Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving's roots trace back to 1621 when the Plymouth colonists and Wampanoag Native Americans shared an autumn harvest feast. This event is often regarded as one of the first Thanksgiving celebrations in the colonies.

Early Thanksgiving Celebrations

• Plymouth Feast (1621): A three-day harvest festival celebrated by the Pilgrims and Wampanoag.
• National Proclamations: During the Revolutionary War, the Continental Congress proclaimed days of thanksgiving.
• Sarah Josepha Hale's Influence: The author of "Mary Had a Little Lamb" campaigned for a national Thanksgiving holiday for decades.

Abraham Lincoln and the Official Holiday

In 1863, President Abraham Lincoln declared Thanksgiving a national holiday to be celebrated on the final Thursday of November, as a way to unite a nation torn by civil war.

Traditional Thanksgiving Celebrations

Today, Thanksgiving is a time for families and friends to gather, share a meal, and express gratitude. Common traditions include:

• Turkey Dinner: The centerpiece of most Thanksgiving meals, often accompanied by stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, cranberry sauce, and vegetables.
• Family Gatherings: Thanksgiving is a major travel holiday, as people journey to be with their loved ones.
• Parades and Football: Many watch the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade or enjoy football games.

Thanksgiving Meal Staples

• Turkey: Roasted, smoked, or deep-fried, turkey remains the star.
• Stuffing: Bread-based or cornbread-based, seasoned with herbs and vegetables.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and comforting, often served with gravy.
• Cranberry Sauce: A sweet-tart accompaniment.
• Pumpkin Pie: The quintessential Thanksgiving dessert.

Regional Thanksgiving Dishes

• New England: Indian pudding, a baked cornmeal dessert.
• South: Sweet potato casserole with marshmallows.
• Southwest: Green chile cornbread.

How to Plan Your Thanksgiving in 2025

Planning ahead ensures a smooth and enjoyable Thanksgiving. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Guest List: Determine who you will invite.
2. Menu Planning: Decide on the dishes you'll prepare. Consider dietary restrictions and preferences.
3. Shopping: Buy ingredients in advance to avoid last-minute rushes.
4. Preparation: Prepare dishes ahead of time where possible. Pie crusts, cranberry sauce, and some side dishes can be made a day or two in advance.
5. Delegate: Ask guests to bring a dish or help with setup and cleanup.

Tips for a Stress-Free Thanksgiving

• Make a Timeline: Plan when you'll start cooking each dish.
• Set the Table Early: Get the table set the day before.
• Accept Help: Don't be afraid to ask for and accept assistance from guests.

Thanksgiving Trivia and Fun Facts

• Turkey isn't native to Turkey: Turkeys originated in North America.
• Cranberry sauce was once a luxury: Early colonists used wild cranberries, which were tart and difficult to harvest.
• The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade started in 1924: Originally, it featured live animals from the Central Park Zoo.

Thanksgiving by the Numbers

• 46 million: The estimated number of turkeys cooked each Thanksgiving (National Turkey Federation).
• $165.2 million: The amount spent on pumpkin pie filling in 2020 (Statista).
• 88%: Percentage of Americans who eat turkey on Thanksgiving (Butterball Survey).

Thanksgiving Volunteer Opportunities

Thanksgiving is also a time to give back to the community. Many organizations offer volunteer opportunities:

• Food Banks: Help sort and distribute food to those in need (Feeding America).
• Soup Kitchens: Serve meals to the homeless and hungry.
• Homeless Shelters: Provide support and assistance to individuals experiencing homelessness.

How to Find Volunteer Opportunities

• VolunteerMatch: An online platform connecting volunteers with local organizations.
• Idealist: A global directory of non-profit organizations and volunteer opportunities.
• Local Charities: Check with local charities and religious organizations for Thanksgiving volunteer needs.

Thanksgiving Shopping: Black Friday

Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving, is known as one of the biggest shopping days of the year. Retailers offer significant discounts and deals, attracting large crowds. — Derrick Henry: The Art Of The Stiff Arm

Tips for Black Friday Shopping

• Plan Ahead: Research deals and create a shopping list.
• Set a Budget: Avoid overspending by setting a budget and sticking to it.
• Shop Online: Avoid crowds by shopping online.

FAQ About Thanksgiving

What is the real meaning of Thanksgiving?

Thanksgiving is a holiday to express gratitude for the blessings in one's life and to share a meal with loved ones.

Why is Thanksgiving celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November?

President Franklin D. Roosevelt set this date to extend the Christmas shopping season, and Congress later formalized it.

What are some popular Thanksgiving dishes?

Popular dishes include turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie. — ¿Cuándo Pelea Canelo? Guía Completa Del Próximo Combate

How did Thanksgiving start?

Thanksgiving started with a harvest feast shared by the Plymouth colonists and Wampanoag Native Americans in 1621.

What is Black Friday?

Black Friday is the day after Thanksgiving and is known for significant retail discounts and shopping opportunities. — Sydney Sweeney & Scooter Braun: New Business Relationship?

What are some volunteer opportunities for Thanksgiving?

Volunteer opportunities include helping at food banks, soup kitchens, and homeless shelters.

How can I make Thanksgiving more sustainable?

You can make Thanksgiving more sustainable by buying locally sourced food, reducing food waste, and using reusable dishes and decorations. Also consider composting food scraps.

Conclusion

Thanksgiving 2025 will be celebrated on Thursday, November 27th. As you plan your Thanksgiving, remember its rich history, traditions, and the importance of gratitude and giving back. Whether you’re preparing a traditional feast or volunteering in your community, make this Thanksgiving a memorable and meaningful one.

Start planning your Thanksgiving dinner menu and guest list today!