Thanksgiving 2025: Dates, Traditions, and Recipes
Why is Thanksgiving celebrated on the fourth Thursday in November? What prompted Presidents Washington and Lincoln to proclaim a day of Thanksgiving? Contrary to popular belief, it’s not about a Pilgrim feast. Discover the true facts about this All-American holiday.
Thanksgiving Date in the United States
The United States officially observes Thanksgiving on the fourth Thursday in November. In 2025, Thanksgiving falls on Thursday, November 27. Since 1941, this timing has been fixed, causing the date to vary each year. The earliest possible Thanksgiving is November 22, and the latest is November 28.
In 1939, President Roosevelt temporarily moved Thanksgiving from the fourth to the third Thursday of November, but this change was unpopular and eventually reversed.
Canadian Thanksgiving Date
In Canada, Thanksgiving is celebrated on the second Monday in October. For 2025, it will be observed on Monday, October 13.
Historical Origins Before the Federal Holiday
Long before Thanksgiving became a national holiday, Native Americans in North America held harvest festivals for centuries. Early colonial services marking these festivals date back to the late 16th century. These autumn celebrations honored the successful harvest after a season of plentiful growth.
“Native Americans in North America celebrated harvest festivals for centuries before a Thanksgiving federal holiday was formally established in the United States.”
Thanksgiving’s modern date and traditions connect to these early harvest celebrations rather than just the Pilgrim feast story often told.
Author’s summary: Thanksgiving’s date and origins are rooted in centuries-old harvest festivals and presidential proclamations, reflecting a rich tradition beyond the common Pilgrim narrative.
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