Thanksgiving is one of the biggest holidays in the US. It is about family, food and saying what you are thankful for. It is not a religious holiday, so everyone takes part.
Thanksgiving is the fourth Thursday in November. In 2026 it is November 26. Many schools and workplaces also close the Friday after, so it becomes a four-day weekend.
Most families eat a large meal in the afternoon or early evening. Common dishes:
Stuffing (also called dressing): bread cooked with herbs.
Mashed potatoes and gravy (a sauce made from meat juices).
Cranberry sauce, sweet potatoes, green beans and corn.
Pumpkin pie or apple pie for dessert.
Many families also watch American football on TV, or the parade in New York in the morning. Some go around the table and each person says one thing they are thankful for.
Being invited is a warm gesture. Here is how to be a good guest:
Reply soon: "Yes, thank you, I would love to come."
Tell the host about food needs: "I am vegetarian" or "I don't eat pork." This is normal and polite to say early.
Ask what to bring: "Can I bring something?" Common answers are a dessert, a drink, flowers, or a dish from your country. Hosts often enjoy a dish from home.
Arrive close to the time they say, or up to 15 minutes late. Not much earlier.
Offer to help clear the table or wash dishes.
Say thank you when you leave, and send a short text the next day: "Thank you for a wonderful dinner."
Friendsgiving is a Thanksgiving-style dinner with friends instead of family. It is often a potluck: everyone brings one dish. It can happen on any day near Thanksgiving.
Thanksgiving week is one of the busiest travel times of the year. Flights cost more and airports are crowded, especially the Wednesday before and the Sunday after. Book early and arrive at the airport early.
The day after Thanksgiving is Black Friday, a big shopping day with sales. See the guide on Black Friday and return windows.
Thanksgiving can feel lonely when everyone else is with family. You have options:
Students: many universities run programs that match international students with local families for dinner. Ask your international student office in early November.
Community dinners: places of worship, community centers and nonprofits often host free dinners. Call 211 or check your city's events calendar.
Volunteer: food banks and shelters need helpers that day. Many people say this was their best Thanksgiving.
Host your own: invite other newcomers. You do not need a turkey.
Arriving with nothing and saying nothing about allergies.
Planning errands on Thanksgiving Day: post offices, banks and many stores are closed.