Why the date changes every year
Thanksgiving in the United States is the fourth Thursday of November, so it always falls between November 22 and November 28.
President Lincoln proclaimed a national day of thanksgiving in 1863. In 1941 Congress fixed the holiday to the fourth Thursday of November.
A Thanksgiving countdown plan
- Two to three weeks out: settle the guest list and the menu.
- One to two weeks out: buy or order the turkey and book any travel.
- Several days out: thaw a frozen turkey in the fridge, about one day for every 4 to 5 pounds.
- Two days out: shop for fresh produce and bake pies.
- The day before: prepare the sides and set the table.
Thanksgiving in Canada
Canadian Thanksgiving is on the second Monday of October. This countdown follows the date in the United States.
Questions and answers
How many days until Thanksgiving?
There are 35 days until Thanksgiving 2026 on Thursday, November 26, 2026. The countdown on this page shows the time left to the second.
What date is Thanksgiving 2026?
Thanksgiving 2026 is on Thursday, November 26, 2026, the fourth Thursday of November.
Is Thanksgiving always on a Thursday?
In the United States, yes. It is the fourth Thursday of November, so it falls between November 22 and November 28.
How long does it take to thaw a turkey?
In the fridge, plan about 24 hours for every 4 to 5 pounds. A 16 pound turkey needs about four days.
When is Black Friday?
Black Friday is the day after Thanksgiving, so it is always a Friday between November 23 and November 29.