Thanksgiving 2025: Dates, Traditions, and Facts
Thanksgiving in the United States is celebrated annually on the fourth Thursday of November. In 2025, the holiday falls on Thursday, November 27. This tradition of observing Thanksgiving on the fourth Thursday dates back to 1941, causing the exact date to change each year. The earliest Thanksgiving can occur is November 22, while the latest is November 28.
In 1939, President Roosevelt controversially moved Thanksgiving from the fourth to the third Thursday in November, but this change was unpopular and later reversed.
Unlike the United States, Canada celebrates Thanksgiving on the second Monday in October. In 2025, Canadian Thanksgiving will be on Monday, October 13.
Origins of Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is often mistakenly linked solely to the Pilgrim feast, but its roots run deeper. Native Americans in North America held harvest festivals for centuries before the United States officially declared Thanksgiving a federal holiday. These autumnal celebrations honored a successful crop season and date back to the late 16th century in colonial America.
“The United States celebrates Thanksgiving as a national holiday on the fourth Thursday in November.”
“President Roosevelt changed Thanksgiving from the fourth Thursday to the third Thursday in November in 1939. However, this was not a very popular move.”
Key Dates for Thanksgiving 2025
- U.S. Thanksgiving: Thursday, November 27, 2025
- Canadian Thanksgiving: Monday, October 13, 2025
These traditions reflect the historical and cultural layers behind the holiday, beyond the common Pilgrim meal story.
Author's summary: Thanksgiving in 2025 continues a long tradition of celebrating harvest and gratitude on varying dates, reflecting historic origins beyond the Pilgrim narrative.