Thanksgiving 2026: When is it and what to know before traveling, shopping or celebrating?
An important holiday is just around the corner.
November is here, and with it comes the countdown to one of the year's most anticipated celebrations. Thanksgiving is getting closer, and between traveling to reunite with family, preparing the holiday dinner and making plans for the long weekend , there are several details worth keeping in mind to avoid any last-minute surprises.
This year, Thanksgiving will be celebrated on Thursday, November 26, kicking off a weekend that will also feature the traditional Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade and Black Friday deals . If you're already making plans, here are the dates and details you should know.
Which days will see the most traffic on roads and at airports?
As happens every year, the days leading up to Thanksgiving will account for a large share of holiday travel. Tuesday, November 24, and Wednesday, November 25, will be two of the busiest dates for those heading out before the holiday . Traffic is also expected to pick up on Sunday, November 29, as many people make their way home after spending time with family or taking a few days away.
If you're still planning your itinerary, it's best to compare transportation options and check flight schedules ahead of time. Traveling on Thursday, November 26, itself could be an alternative for those looking to avoid some of the busiest travel days , although that doesn't guarantee cheaper fares or less crowded airports.
Weather conditions should also be part of your preparations, especially if you're planning to drive or connect through other cities. Preliminary forecasts point to changing conditions across several regions of the United States, including falling temperatures, rain and possible snowfall in parts of the North and East . Checking local forecasts before leaving can help you prepare for unexpected changes along the way.
Will Walmart and Target be open on Thanksgiving 2026?
If you're thinking about leaving some shopping until the last minute, there's something important you should know: Walmart and Target will keep their stores closed on Thursday, November 26. That means you won't be able to visit either retailer to pick up missing dinner ingredients or take care of any last-minute errands during the holiday.
The best option is to do your grocery shopping ahead of time and make sure you have everything you need for dinner, from ingredients and drinks to those final details for the gathering. If something unexpected comes up, you can check the hours of other nearby stores, as each retailer sets its own Thanksgiving schedule.
Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade 2026: Start Time and Route in New York City
While families across the country get ready for their holiday dinners, another major Thanksgiving tradition will be getting underway early in New York City. The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade will once again fill the streets of Manhattan.
The parade will begin at 8:30 a.m. on Thursday, November 26, and is expected to wrap up around noon. It will start at 77th Street and Central Park West , near the American Museum of Natural History. From there, it will travel along Central Park West, pass the Central Park South area and continue down Sixth Avenue before reaching Herald Square, in front of Macy's at 34th Street.
When Is Black Friday 2026?
And as if Thanksgiving weren't already reason enough to celebrate, the holiday weekend will continue with another of November's most anticipated dates for shoppers. Black Friday will take place on Friday, November 27, with deals available at brick-and-mortar stores and online retailers .
If you're planning to get a head start on your Christmas shopping or finally buy something you've had your eye on, comparing prices before making a decision can help you find a good deal.
