Thanksgiving 2026: Official Date, Origins, and Celebration Guide In summary: United States Thanksgiving 2026 takes place on Thursday, November 26, 2026. It is a official federal holiday celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November each year, dedicated to expressing gratitude, sharing a festive meal with family, and marking the autumn harvest season. US Event Date November 26, 2026 Canadian Date October 12, 2026 Type Federal Public Holiday Followed By Black Friday (Nov 27) What is Thanksgiving? Thanksgiving is an annual national holiday celebrated primarily in the United States and Canada. The holiday centers around community gatherings, expressing appreciation for blessings, and enjoying a classic harvest feast. Key Thanksgiving Traditions The Thanksgiving Feast: The central focus is a shared dinner featuring roasted turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, gravy, and pumpkin pie. Parades: Millions tune in to watch live events such as the annual Macys Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City. NFL Football Games: Professional football on Thanksgiving Day is a long-standing American sports tradition. Family Gatherings Charity: Millions travel home to assemble with relatives or volunteer at local food drives and shelters. Brief History of the Holiday The American Thanksgiving tradition traces its origins to a 1621 harvest meal shared by the English colonists (Pilgrims) of Plymouth and the Wampanoag people. President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed Thanksgiving a national holiday in 1863 during the Civil War, and Congress officially fixed its date to the fourth Thursday of November in 1941.