URGENT UPDATE: Thanksgiving will be celebrated on November 27, 2024, marking the second-latest date possible for this major holiday. As Halloween festivities fade, many are turning their attention to the calendar, feeling the wait for Thanksgiving feels longer than usual.
This year’s Thanksgiving is particularly noteworthy as it falls just one day shy of the latest possible date, which is November 28, set to occur in 2024. The earliest Thanksgiving can be celebrated is November 22, a scenario we haven’t experienced since 2018 and won’t see again until 2029.
Why such variation in Thanksgiving dates? Unlike fixed holidays, Thanksgiving’s timing is dictated by the calendar. Established as a national holiday by President George Washington in 1789, it has undergone numerous changes since its inception. The Library of Congress notes that Washington’s first Thanksgiving fell on November 26.
Over the years, Presidents have issued proclamations that varied widely. For instance, President James Madison celebrated Thanksgiving on September 9 in 1813 and on March 16 in 1815. It wasn’t until 1863 that President Abraham Lincoln standardized the holiday to the last Thursday in November.
However, in an effort to boost the economy during the Great Depression, President Franklin D. Roosevelt moved Thanksgiving to the second-to-last Thursday in 1939, a decision met with mixed reactions. Ultimately, this led to confusion as 32 states complied, while 16 others retained the last Thursday tradition. It wasn’t until 1941 that Congress officially established Thanksgiving as the fourth Thursday of November.
As families and friends prepare for the holiday, the late date may impact Thanksgiving plans and shopping for the festive season. With only a few weekends left until the holiday, consumers are urged to plan ahead to avoid last-minute scrambling.
What’s Next: As we approach Thanksgiving, keep an eye on special promotions, including food deals and holiday events. Some retailers, like Amazon, are already announcing offers, such as a $25 Thanksgiving dinner for 5. This deal could help families celebrate without breaking the bank.
This year’s Thanksgiving may be late, but the spirit of gratitude and celebration remains strong. Stay tuned for updates on local events and festivities as we get closer to this significant holiday.
