Thanksgiving is one of the most beloved holidays in the United States — a day for gratitude, good food, family gatherings, and the kickoff to the festive season. But every fall, millions of Americans ask the same question: How many days until Thanksgiving?
This article gives you a live countdown timer, historical context, fun facts, and everything you need to prepare for the big day.
🕒 How Many Days Until Thanksgiving?
Thanksgiving always falls on the fourth Thursday of November in the United States.
Here’s your automatic countdown to the next Thanksgiving:
🍂 When Is Thanksgiving 2025?
Thanksgiving Day in 2025 will be on Thursday, November 27.
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2024 | November 28 | Thursday |
| 2025 | November 27 | Thursday |
| 2026 | November 26 | Thursday |
| 2027 | November 25 | Thursday |
🧡 The Meaning of Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving began as a harvest celebration in the early 1600s. The most famous early event took place in 1621, when English Pilgrims and the Wampanoag people shared a three-day feast of gratitude.
Today, Thanksgiving is a national holiday dedicated to:
- Giving thanks for the blessings of the past year
- Gathering with family and friends
- Enjoying traditional meals
- Kicking off the festive winter season
President Abraham Lincoln officially proclaimed Thanksgiving a national holiday in 1863, during the Civil War, to unite Americans through gratitude.
🦃 Traditional Thanksgiving Activities
- Feasting – Turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie dominate most tables.
- Parades – The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City is watched by millions.
- Football – The NFL’s Thanksgiving games are a classic American tradition.
- Volunteering – Many families give back by donating food or serving at shelters.
- Holiday Shopping – Thanksgiving marks the start of the holiday shopping season leading into Black Friday.
🍁 Thanksgiving in the United States vs. Canada
| Country | Date | Reason |
|---|---|---|
| USA | 4th Thursday in November | Celebrates harvest and national gratitude |
| Canada | 2nd Monday in October | Earlier harvest season due to northern climate |
🔢 Fun Facts About Thanksgiving
- Over 46 million turkeys are eaten each Thanksgiving.
- The average American consumes about 3,000 calories during the feast.
- “Friendsgiving” has become a popular tradition among younger generations.
- Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys have hosted Thanksgiving football games for decades.
🕯️ Why People Search “How Many Days Until Thanksgiving?”
Americans love planning early — from travel bookings and recipe prep to buying decor and planning family reunions. A countdown helps families stay organized and excited as the holiday season approaches.
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✅ Conclusion
Now you know exactly how many days until Thanksgiving, along with its origin, traditions, and fun history. Whether you’re hosting dinner, traveling to see loved ones, or watching the parade, take time to appreciate the spirit of gratitude that defines this special American holiday.
Happy Thanksgiving! 🦃
❓Frequently Asked Questions About Thanksgiving
Q1. What day is Thanksgiving in 2025?
Thanksgiving in 2025 will be on Thursday, November 27.
Q2. How many days until Thanksgiving right now?
Use the live countdown timer above — it updates every second.
Q3. Is Thanksgiving celebrated in other countries?
Yes, countries like Canada, Liberia, and Grenada have their own Thanksgiving traditions.
Q4. What foods are eaten on Thanksgiving?
Turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie are staples.
Q5. Why do we eat turkey on Thanksgiving?
Turkey became popular because it was plentiful and large enough to feed families, and early settlers often hunted wild turkeys.
Q6. What time is the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade?
It typically starts at 9:00 a.m. Eastern Time in New York City.
Q7. When did Thanksgiving become a federal holiday?
President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed it a national holiday in 1863.
Q8. What is Friendsgiving?
Friendsgiving is a modern celebration where friends gather to share a Thanksgiving-style meal, usually before or after the official holiday.
Q9. Why does the date of Thanksgiving change every year?
It’s always on the fourth Thursday of November, which falls on different calendar dates each year.
Q10. What is Black Friday?
Black Friday is the Friday following Thanksgiving and marks the start of the Christmas shopping season.