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Thanksgiving 2025 Date: When and why Thanksgiving is celebrated

Thanksgiving 2025 brings Americans together on November 27 for gratitude, family time and a historic harvest tradition that continues to shape the nation’s culture.

November 18, 2025 / 11:31 IST
Thanksgiving 2025 Date: When and why Thanksgiving is celebrated

Thanksgiving 2025 brings together family, food and gratitude, making it one of the most cherished American festivals. Celebrated every year on the fourth Thursday of November, Thanksgiving marks a moment to pause, appreciate the year gone by and enjoy a hearty meal. As per official listings, Thanksgiving 2025 will be observed on Thursday, November 27.

What Thanksgiving Really Means

Thanksgiving began as a harvest celebration, but its meaning has expanded over time. Today, the holiday is more about togetherness. Families and friends gather for a meal, express gratitude, reflect on blessings and share traditions that have been passed down for generations. From turkey dinners to parades and football games, the day carries a sense of warmth and nostalgia.

Thanksgiving 2025 Date and Calendar Details

Thanksgiving is not tied to a fixed date. It always falls on the fourth Thursday of November, which means the date shifts every year. In 2025, Thanksgiving lands on November 27, followed by Black Friday, the major holiday shopping kickoff in the United States.

The History of Thanksgiving

According to historical records, the roots of Thanksgiving go back to 1621, when the Pilgrims in Plymouth, Massachusetts, held a harvest feast. By the late 1600s, several New England communities marked annual days of thanks.

In 1789, George Washington called for a National Day of Thanksgiving. The holiday became official in 1863, when President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed a national Thanksgiving during the Civil War. Since then, it has remained a federal holiday and an important cultural tradition.

Why the Date Changes Every Year

Depending on how the calendar falls, Thanksgiving can arrive between November 22 and November 28. The next earliest Thanksgiving will be in 2029, and the next latest will be in 2030.

Thanksgiving Celebrations Around the World

Although the United States is most associated with this holiday, other countries observe similar celebrations.

  • Canada marks Thanksgiving on the second Monday of October.
  • Liberia celebrates it on the first Thursday of November.
  • Grenada and Saint Lucia also have their own Thanksgiving traditions linked to harvest and gratitude.
What Makes Thanksgiving Special Today

Whether spent at parades, around a busy dinner table or in quiet reflection, Thanksgiving continues to symbolize gratitude, unity and shared togetherness. It remains a time to reconnect with loved ones and appreciate life’s daily blessings.

FAQs

When is Thanksgiving in 2025?

Thanksgiving will be celebrated on Thursday, November 27, 2025.

Why do Americans celebrate Thanksgiving?

It began as a harvest celebration and now represents gratitude, family and shared traditions.

Is Thanksgiving a federal holiday?

Yes, government offices and many businesses remain closed across the United States.

MC Religion Desk Read the latest and trending religion news—stay updated on upcoming festivals, prayers, rituals, scriptures, spiritual beliefs, pilgrimages, and traditions.

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