What Is Thanksgiving?
Before diving into the details of why Thanksgiving is so late this year, let’s revisit the basics of this cherished holiday. Thanksgiving is a traditional American holiday celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November. It’s a time when families and friends come together to express gratitude, share a meal, and enjoy each other's company.
The holiday has deep historical roots, dating back to the fall of 1621 when English settlers and the Wampanoag people gathered to celebrate a successful harvest. This event is often remembered as the “First Thanksgiving”, though the term itself wasn’t used at that time.
Why Does the Date of Thanksgiving Change Every Year?
Unlike holidays like Christmas (always on December 25) or Independence Day (always on July 4), Thanksgiving doesn’t have a fixed calendar date. Instead, it is tied to the fourth Thursday of November. This decision was solidified by Congress in 1941 to provide consistency while also extending the holiday shopping season leading up to Christmas.
The date can range anywhere from November 22 to November 28, depending on how the calendar falls. The shifting date means that some years, Thanksgiving comes earlier, while in other years, it feels like we’re waiting forever for that turkey dinner.
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Thanksgiving 2024: A Rare Late Date
So, why is Thanksgiving so late this year? The answer lies in the way the calendar is structured, especially in a leap year like 2024. This year, Thanksgiving falls on its latest possible date: November 28. The last time Thanksgiving was celebrated this late was back in 2019, and the next time it will happen again is in 2030.
A typical November has four Thursdays, but when the month starts late in the week (like a Friday), the fourth Thursday lands at the very end of the month. This year, November 1st is a Friday, pushing Thanksgiving to its latest possible date. The presence of an extra day due to the leap year also plays a role, extending the calendar just enough to push the holiday back.
How Often Does Thanksgiving Fall on November 28?
A November 28 Thanksgiving happens approximately every five to six years. It’s a rare occurrence and only happens when November’s first day falls on a Friday. This means that Thanksgiving lands nearly a full week later than the previous year. For example, in 2023, Thanksgiving was on November 23, making the gap feel even longer this year.
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What This Means for Holiday Planning
The late timing of Thanksgiving in 2024 can impact various aspects of the holiday season. For starters, the Christmas shopping season is slightly shorter, as many people kick off their holiday shopping on Black Friday, the day after Thanksgiving. Retailers may need to adjust their marketing strategies to accommodate the condensed timeline, while consumers might feel a bit more pressure to get their holiday shopping done in a shorter span of time.
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Planning Your Thanksgiving Outfit and Decor
Given the late date, you might find yourself scrambling to pull together your Thanksgiving outfit and decorations in time. The cooler weather in late November calls for cozy and warm attire. Women looking for a Thanksgiving outfit might consider layering with a stylish tank top or crop top from All Cotton and Linen for a casual yet chic look. Pair it with a warm cardigan or sweater for a perfect Thanksgiving day ensemble.
For those hosting Thanksgiving dinner, it’s a great opportunity to refresh your table settings. Opt for sustainable options like tablecloths and Thanksgiving napkins that add a touch of elegance to your dining experience while being environmentally conscious.
Thanksgiving in Future Years
If you’re already thinking about future holiday plans, here’s a heads-up: the next time Thanksgiving will be this late again is in 2030. On the flip side, the earliest Thanksgiving can be is November 22, which will next occur in 2029.
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Enjoying Thanksgiving, No Matter the Date
While the timing of Thanksgiving might feel unusual this year, the spirit of the holiday remains the same. It’s a time to gather, reflect on what we’re thankful for, and enjoy delicious food and good company. Whether it falls early or late, the essence of Thanksgiving is about gratitude, togetherness, and celebration.
This year, utilize the extra time to plan and prepare for a memorable Thanksgiving with your loved ones, and make the most of the extended fall season before the winter holidays kick in.
