Thanksgiving 2026 dates
In the United States, Thanksgiving is always the fourth Thursday of November. In 2026 that's Thursday, November 26. Canadian Thanksgiving is the second Monday of October, which in 2026 is Monday, October 12. Black Friday follows the US holiday on November 27.
Counting down
Use our days between dates calculator to see exactly how many days you've left. Hosting a dinner is much easier when you work backwards from the date, scheduling shopping, thawing and cooking in steps instead of trying to do everything on Wednesday night.
Turkey size and thawing
Plan about 1 to 1.5 pounds (0.45 to 0.7 kg) of whole turkey per guest, more if you want leftovers. A frozen turkey thaws in the refrigerator at roughly 24 hours per 4 to 5 pounds. That means a 16-pound bird needs about four days, so it should go into the fridge on Sunday, November 22. Cold-water thawing is faster (about 30 minutes per pound, changing the water every half hour) but needs attention.
Cooking time
At 325°F (about 163°C), an unstuffed turkey takes roughly 13 to 15 minutes per pound. A 16-pound turkey therefore needs about three and a half to four hours. Always check that the thickest part of the thigh reaches 165°F (74°C), and let the bird rest 30 minutes before carving. If your recipe is in Celsius, our temperature converter makes switching easy.
A stress-free timeline
One week before: finalize the guest list and menu, and buy non-perishables. Sunday: start thawing the turkey. Tuesday: make cranberry sauce and pie dough. Wednesday: bake pies, prepare side dishes that reheat well and set the table. Thursday: roast the turkey, finish sides while it rests, and enjoy.
Budget tip
Split the cost of the meal by asking guests to bring a side or dessert. Dividing the grocery bill by the number of guests gives a fair per-person contribution if friends want to chip in.
Frequently asked questions
What date is Thanksgiving 2026 in the US?
Thursday, November 26, 2026.
When was Canadian Thanksgiving 2026?
Monday, October 12, 2026.
How long does a 16-pound turkey take to thaw?
About four days in the refrigerator.
What temperature should a cooked turkey reach?
165°F (74°C) in the thickest part of the thigh.