UPDATE: Thanksgiving will be celebrated on its second-latest date ever this year, falling on November 27. This development has sparked conversations about the holiday’s historical dates and significance as Americans look ahead to their Thanksgiving plans.
As the holiday season approaches, many families are already feeling the crunch. With Thanksgiving just weeks away, the late date this year means there are fewer days remaining before the festive celebrations and shopping rush for Christmas.
Historically, Thanksgiving has fluctuated between November 22 and November 28. The latest possible Thanksgiving will occur next year in 2024, landing on November 28. Meanwhile, the earliest Thanksgiving, which last occurred in 2018, will not be seen again until 2029.
So, why does Thanksgiving move around? The date changes are primarily due to the calendar rather than the holiday itself. Since its inception in 1789, when President George Washington proclaimed the first Thanksgiving, the dates have varied significantly.
“Thanksgiving has been celebrated on different dates throughout history, reflecting the evolving nature of American society and its traditions,” said an official from The Center for Legislative Archives.
For decades, Thanksgiving was celebrated on the last Thursday of November, a tradition solidified by President Abraham Lincoln in 1863. However, this changed in 1939 when President Franklin D. Roosevelt moved the holiday to the second-to-last Thursday to extend the Christmas shopping season amid the Great Depression. Despite Roosevelt’s intentions, 32 states adopted the new date while 16 states resisted, maintaining the traditional last Thursday schedule.
It wasn’t until 1941 that Congress established Thanksgiving as the fourth Thursday in November, a decision that finally brought consistency to the holiday’s observance.
Looking ahead, the most immediate concern for families planning Thanksgiving dinners is the impact of the late date on their holiday preparations. With just a few short weeks to finalize plans, many are turning to grocery stores and meal delivery services to ensure a smooth celebration.
Online retailers like Amazon have responded with special offers, including a $25 Thanksgiving dinner option for families of five, making it easier for consumers to celebrate amid the busy holiday season.
As Thanksgiving approaches, keep an eye out for local events and parades, including the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, which is set to feature a star-studded lineup this year.
The countdown to Thanksgiving is on, and with the late date this year, families are urged to make their plans quickly. Stay tuned for updates and take advantage of early holiday deals to ensure a memorable celebration.
