Thanksgiving is a US national holiday held on the fourth Thursday of November — 26 November in 2026 — when families gather to give thanks, traditionally over roast turkey. It traces back to a 1621 harvest feast shared by the Plymouth colonists and the Wampanoag people. President Abraham Lincoln made it a national holiday in 1863, and Congress fixed it to the fourth Thursday in 1941.
Key facts at a glance
| Item | Detail |
|---|---|
| Date | Fourth Thursday of November (26 November 2026) |
| Origin | 1621 harvest feast at Plymouth |
| National holiday | Proclaimed by Lincoln in 1863 |
| Fixed date | Set by Congress in 1941 |
| Canada | Second Monday of October |
History
In autumn 1621, English colonists at Plymouth, Massachusetts, held a three-day harvest celebration attended by members of the Wampanoag nation. Days of thanksgiving were held irregularly for two centuries until Lincoln declared a national day in 1863, during the Civil War. For Native American communities, the holiday also carries a more complex history, and some observe a National Day of Mourning.
Traditions
- Family dinner with roast turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce and pumpkin pie.
- The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York.
- American football games on television.
- Presidential turkey pardon at the White House.
- Volunteering at food banks and shelters.
Drinks at Thanksgiving
Apple cider, cranberry drinks and sparkling juices are popular, alongside wine for adults. Non-alcoholic sparkling juices and fruit punches make good options for family tables.
Frequently asked questions
When is Thanksgiving 2026?
Thursday 26 November 2026.
Why is turkey eaten at Thanksgiving?
Turkey was plentiful in North America and large enough to feed a family; it became the traditional centrepiece in the 19th century.
What is Black Friday?
The day after Thanksgiving, traditionally the start of the holiday shopping season.
ACM Beverage wishes all our partners and customers in the United States a happy Thanksgiving. See our sparkling drinks and fruit juices.
