URGENT UPDATE: Thanksgiving is set to land on its second-latest date ever this year, falling on November 27, 2023. As many prepare for the holiday season, this late date may feel like a long wait for families and friends looking forward to their festive gatherings.
With Halloween now behind us, the countdown to Thanksgiving is on, and the anticipation is palpable. The latest possible Thanksgiving will occur next year when it lands on November 28, 2024, while the earliest celebration will not happen until November 22, 2029. This year’s positioning of Thanksgiving brings both excitement and questions about why the holiday date fluctuates so significantly.
Thanksgiving has been a cherished tradition in the U.S. since 1789, when President George Washington first declared a national day of thanks. It may come as a surprise that the specific date has changed many times over the years. For instance, President James Madison proclaimed Thanksgiving on September 9, 1813, and again on March 16, 1815.
In 1863, President Abraham Lincoln standardized the holiday, declaring it would be celebrated on the last Thursday of November. However, this consistency did not last, as President Franklin D. Roosevelt shifted Thanksgiving to the second-to-last Thursday in 1939 to extend the Christmas shopping season. The change was met with resistance, as 32 states complied while 16 states remained steadfast in celebrating on the last Thursday.
Finally, in 1941, U.S. Congress officially designated Thanksgiving as the fourth Thursday of November, which is now the standard across the nation. This year’s late date might affect holiday planning for many families, emphasizing the importance of making early arrangements for meals and gatherings.
What’s more, with Thanksgiving approaching, major retailers are already preparing for the shopping frenzy that follows. Amazon has recently announced a budget-friendly Thanksgiving dinner option for $25 that can serve five people, making it easier for families to celebrate without breaking the bank.
As families gear up for the festivities, the late Thanksgiving date this year may lead to more extended holiday celebrations, with many taking advantage of the extra time to prepare. Expect to see numerous events and promotions as Thanksgiving approaches, including the eagerly awaited Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
Looking ahead, the next major holiday season kicks off right after Thanksgiving, with Black Friday sales starting on November 24. This year’s Thanksgiving may be late, but it is sure to be filled with joy, gratitude, and opportunities for connection.
Stay tuned for further updates as the holiday season unfolds, and ensure you’re prepared for a memorable Thanksgiving celebration!
