Thanksgiving 2025: Date, History, and Significance
Thanksgiving 2025 will be observed on November 27. This traditional American holiday is a time when people gather to enjoy turkey, watch football, and express gratitude for the past year.
The Origins and Evolution of Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving began over four centuries ago as a harvest celebration. Initially, it was a moment to give thanks for food and survival. Today, it has evolved into a day focused on gathering with family, friends, and neighbors to share a meal.
Date and Timing
The holiday is always celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November and does not have a fixed date. In 2025, Thanksgiving falls on Thursday, November 27. The following day, known as Black Friday, marks the unofficial start of the U.S. holiday shopping season.
Historical Background
- The first Thanksgiving is often traced back to 1621, during a harvest celebration held by the Pilgrims in Plymouth, Massachusetts.
- By the late 1600s, annual days of thanks were common across New England communities.
- President George Washington called for a national day of Thanksgiving in 1789.
- Thanksgiving was officially established as a national holiday by President Abraham Lincoln in 1863.
Date Variability
Depending on the calendar, Thanksgiving can fall as early as November 22 and as late as November 28.
"Thanksgiving is, at heart, a harvest holiday. It began as a moment to give thanks for food and survival, but today it is more about gathering—family, friends, neighbors—and pausing for a shared meal."
Author’s summary: Thanksgiving, rooted in a 1621 harvest feast, has grown into a cherished annual tradition of gratitude and togetherness celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November.