How Many Days Until Turkey Day? A Complete Guide to Counting Down to Thanksgiving

Turkey Day, also known as Thanksgiving Day, is one of the most beloved American holidays. Every year, families and friends gather together on the fourth Thursday of November to feast on turkey, watch football, and give thanks for all of their blessings. But when exactly is Turkey Day each year, and how can you count down the days until this cherished tradition arrives? This complete guide will cover everything you need to determine the days remaining until Turkey Day.

When is Thanksgiving Celebrated?

Thanksgiving is celebrated on the fourth Thursday in November each year in the United States. This means the actual date shifts around from year to year.

Here are the upcoming Thanksgiving Day dates:

• 2022 – Thursday, November 24
• 2023 – Thursday, November 23
• 2024 – Thursday, November 28
• 2025 – Thursday, November 27

The 4th Thursday schedule was set in 1941 when Franklin D. Roosevelt moved Thanksgiving up a week earlier to lengthen the Christmas shopping season during the Great Depression. Prior to that, Thanksgiving had been celebrated on the last Thursday of November.

The History Behind Thanksgiving Day

The history of Thanksgiving Day in America dates back to 1621, when the Pilgrims held a 3-day harvest feast in Plymouth colony to celebrate their first successful harvest. This event is considered America’s “first Thanksgiving.”

In the 1800s, the holiday gained popularity and many states held annual thanksgiving festivals. Sarah Josepha Hale, editor of Godey’s Lady’s Book, campaigned for 40 years to establish Thanksgiving as a national holiday. In 1863, President Abraham Lincoln officially declared Thanksgiving a federal holiday celebrated on the last Thursday in November.

Though the dates have changed over the centuries, Thanksgiving continues to center around gathering with loved ones, feasting on traditional dishes like turkey, and expressing gratitude.

Ways to Count Down the Days

With Thanksgiving arriving on the 4th Thursday each November, here are some ideas for counting down the days:

Use an Online Thanksgiving Countdown

Websites like Time and Date and Calendarr offer colorful, real-time countdowns to Turkey Day. These sites track the days, hours, minutes, and even seconds left until the big event.

Download a Thanksgiving Countdown App

Apps like Countdown App: Days Counter provide a countdown timer right on your home screen. They also send notifications as milestone dates like 1 week out approach.

DIY Paper Chain or Calendar

Making a paper chain garland or crossing off days on a calendar are hands-on ways to watch the days tick by Turn it into a fun activity for kids,

Use Party Invitations

Sending Thanksgiving dinner invites 4-6 weeks early allows you to track RSVPs as the date draws closer. Monitor responses on a running guest list.

Fun Countdown Activities

• Decorate with autumn wreaths, table runners, and decorations
• Craft hand turkeys or leaf garlands with kids
• Bake comforting fall treats like apple pie and pumpkin bread
• Listen to Thanksgiving songs and make playlists
• Learn about Thanksgiving history & origin

Tips for Building Excitement

Beyond just tracking the days here are some tips for building anticipation

• Involve children in making calendars and decorations
• Display your countdown prominently on the fridge or wall
• Share your online counter on social media to spread excitement
• Take photos with the paper chain each day to track progress
• Use countdown milestones to start recipes, activities, or decorating
• Schedule autumn activities like apple picking on countdown weekends
• Follow recipe accounts and pin Thanksgiving recipe ideas
• Play festive music and watch football as the day draws closer

There are so many creative and meaningful ways to count down the days until Turkey Day arrives. Finding a method that fits your personal style makes the wait even more fun. Before you know it, the magical day filled with family, food, and gratitude will finally be here. Happy Thanksgiving!