Thanksgiving (US)
Thanksgiving Day: A Celebration of Gratitude and Togetherness
Thanksgiving Day is a cherished American holiday celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November. It’s a time to reflect on what we’re thankful for and gather with loved ones over a festive meal.
History and Origins
The exact origins of Thanksgiving are not well documented. The holiday’s history is often associated with a harvest gathering in Plymouth in 1621, where English settlers and local Indigenous people shared food.
In the 19th century, writer and editor Sarah Josepha Hale campaigned to establish Thanksgiving as a national holiday. President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed a national day of Thanksgiving in 1863, during the Civil War. Today, Thanksgiving is observed on the fourth Thursday of November; the U.S. Office of Personnel Management lists it among federal holidays.
Why Thanksgiving Matters
Thanksgiving is an opportunity to pause, reflect, and express gratitude for our blessings, big and small. It’s a time for family and friends to come together and enjoy a sense of community. With busy schedules, it can be easy to overlook life’s simple joys and the support of those around us. Thanksgiving encourages us to appreciate our relationships, reconnect, and share in the joy of togetherness.
Fun Facts About Thanksgiving
- Gathering Together: Thanksgiving is often celebrated with a shared meal and time with family and friends.
- A Day for Gratitude: Many people take time during the holiday to reflect on what they’re thankful for.
- Football: Watching football is one way some families enjoy spending time together on Thanksgiving.
- Black Friday: The day after Thanksgiving is commonly known as Black Friday and is associated with holiday shopping.
Ways to Celebrate Thanksgiving
Whether you’re spending Thanksgiving with family, friends, or volunteering in your community, there are many ways to make the day special:
- Feast Together: Organize a potluck-style dinner and invite friends and family. Everyone can contribute a favorite dish for a varied and delicious spread.
- Express Gratitude: Take a moment to share what you’re thankful for around the dinner table. This can inspire meaningful conversations and help strengthen bonds.
- Give Back: Volunteer at a local food bank or participate in a community service project. Sharing your time and resources can be a thoughtful way to mark the day.
- Enjoy Outdoor Activities: After your meal, go for a family walk, play a friendly game of football, or join a local Thanksgiving run.
- Craft Together: Try Thanksgiving-themed arts and crafts, from making decorations to creating handmade cards for loved ones.
When is Thanksgiving (US)?
Thanksgiving (US): Every year on the fourth Thursday of November.
| Year | Date | Day of the week |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | November 26 | Thursday |
| 2027 | November 25 | Thursday |
| 2028 | November 23 | Thursday |
| 2029 | November 22 | Thursday |
| 2030 | November 28 | Thursday |
Reviewed by the Holiday List editorial team on October 19, 2026 · Last updated October 19, 2026.
Frequently asked questions
When is Thanksgiving (US) in 2026?
Thanksgiving (US) is on Thursday, November 26, 2026. After that, it falls on Thursday, November 25, 2027. Every year on the fourth Thursday of November.
Is Thanksgiving (US) a public holiday?
Yes. Thanksgiving (US) is an official public holiday where it is observed, so government offices and many schools and businesses may be closed. Closures vary by region and employer.
What are the origins of Thanksgiving?
The exact origins of Thanksgiving are not well documented. The holiday is often associated with a 1621 harvest gathering in Plymouth shared by English settlers and local Indigenous people; Abraham Lincoln proclaimed a national day of Thanksgiving in 1863.
What does Thanksgiving celebrate?
Thanksgiving is a time to reflect on what you’re grateful for and enjoy a sense of community with family and friends.
How can people celebrate Thanksgiving?
People can share a meal, express gratitude, volunteer in their community, take a walk, play football, or make holiday crafts.
Sources
✓ Date matches U.S. Office of Personnel Management: Federal Holidays (checked automatically on October 19, 2026).
Ideas & guides for Thanksgiving (US)
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