Thanksgiving Arrives Late This Year: November 27 Date Confirmed

UPDATE: Thanksgiving will be celebrated on November 27 this year, marking the second-latest date possible for the holiday. As families begin planning their gatherings, this late arrival may feel especially distant compared to the usual Thanksgiving timeline.

The last time Thanksgiving fell this late was in 2024, when it occurred on November 28. The earliest Thanksgiving can be celebrated is November 22, a date that won’t return until 2029. This fluctuation in dates has intrigued many, leading to questions about the holiday’s history and scheduling.

Thanksgiving’s date has changed over the years due to various presidential proclamations. Since its inception in 1789 by President George Washington, who declared a “Day of Publick Thanksgiving” on November 26, the holiday has seen a myriad of changes. The Library of Congress notes that Presidents, including James Madison, issued Thanksgiving proclamations on varying dates, including September 9 in 1813 and March 16 in 1815.

In 1863, President Abraham Lincoln standardized Thanksgiving to the last Thursday in November. However, this tradition faced disruption when President Franklin D. Roosevelt moved it to the second-to-last Thursday in 1939 to extend the Christmas shopping season. While 32 states adopted this new date, 16 states resisted, leading to confusion. Ultimately, Congress solidified Thanksgiving on the fourth Thursday of November in 1941, a decision that remains today.

As families prepare for this year’s Thanksgiving, the late date may impact holiday traditions and plans. With just weeks to go, grocery stores and restaurants are gearing up for increased demand, and Amazon has already announced a $25 Thanksgiving dinner option for five people, highlighting the growing trend of convenience in holiday meals.

Looking ahead, families will need to adjust their schedules and expectations as Thanksgiving approaches. Be sure to mark your calendars for November 27 and start preparing for a memorable celebration. Stay tuned for updates on festivities and events leading up to the holiday, including the popular Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, which promises an exciting lineup this year.

As Thanksgiving approaches, it’s crucial to consider how this late date may affect family gatherings, travel plans, and popular shopping events. Share your thoughts on how you’re adapting for this year’s unique Thanksgiving date and what it means for your celebrations!