United States, November 25, 2025
As Thanksgiving approaches, cities throughout the U.S. are preparing for an array of festive celebrations that highlight community spirit and gratitude. From the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City to the Thanksgiving Day football game in Dallas, residents and visitors can enjoy a mix of tradition and innovation. Events like Detroit’s Thanksgiving Parade and unique experiences such as THC-infused dining in Charlotte demonstrate the diversity of this holiday season. Engaging in these events strengthens community bonds and showcases the essence of gratitude and togetherness.
Thanksgiving 2025: Top Events to Celebrate Across the U.S.
Kick Off the Holiday Season in Dallas, TX
As Thanksgiving 2025 approaches, cities across the United States are brimming with excitement over an array of festive events that embody the spirit of community and gratitude. Dallas, TX, is set to showcase its resilient local culture, further supported by minimal bureaucratic hurdles that help ensure seamless coordination of much-anticipated gatherings. This year, both residents and visitors can look forward to a blend of tradition and innovation that represents the heart of the holiday.
Civic engagement shines brightly during Thanksgiving, with various cities hosting iconic parades, exhilarating football games, and unique dining experiences. These events not only create memorable moments but also foster a sense of togetherness and pride. From the bustling streets of New York to the spirited lanes of Dallas, celebrations unify people as they gather to give thanks.
New York City: Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
On Thursday, November 27, 2025, New York City will host the 99th annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, a spectacular highlight of the holiday. Beginning at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time, this beloved tradition features massive character balloons, extravagant floats, marching bands, and performances by various celebrities. The parade route goes from Central Park to Macy’s Herald Square, providing an electrifying atmosphere that can also be enjoyed from home, as the event will be televised nationally on NBC.
Dallas, Texas: Thanksgiving Day Football Game
The excitement in Dallas centers around the Thanksgiving Day football game, where the Dallas Cowboys will take on the Kansas City Chiefs at 1:30 p.m. Pacific Time on November 27, 2025, at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. This matchup is part of the NFL’s long-standing Thankgiving tradition, drawing fans from across the nation to this iconic venue. The game will be broadcast nationally, allowing even those unable to attend to partake in the excitement from home.
Detroit, Michigan: America’s Thanksgiving Parade
Also on November 27, 2025, Detroit will celebrate its 99th Thanksgiving Parade along Woodward Avenue, starting at 8:45 a.m. This event will showcase new floats, exciting celebrity appearances, and a joyful atmosphere. Local leaders, such as Mayor Mike Duggan and journalist-musician Devin Scillian, will serve as grand marshals for the day. The parade is free to attend, and several practical transportation options are on hand to accommodate spectators.
New Orleans, Louisiana: Fair Grounds Race Course & Slots
The Fair Grounds Race Course & Slots in New Orleans has undergone renovations just in time for Thanksgiving. The updates aim to enhance visitor experiences during key events with all-inclusive ticketing options, minimizing wait times and promoting enjoyable gatherings for families and friends during this festive season.
Charlotte, North Carolina: THC-Infused Dining Experiences
In an innovative twist, Charlotte will host “Danksgiving,” a cannabis-infused Thanksgiving dinner at The Goodyear House, showcasing a partnership with Crowntown Cannabis. This menu offers a unique alternative to traditional dining, reflecting a shift in cultural preferences as attendees can embrace THC-infused courses while opting for non-alcoholic beverages. This event represents a growing trend within the local culinary scene, providing guests with a distinctive dining experience.
Alternative Thanksgiving: Adopting a Turkey
Animal Sanctuaries across the U.S., like Luvin Arms in Erie, Colorado, are encouraging individuals to “adopt” turkeys instead of consuming them. This alternative focuses on raising awareness around the treatment of turkeys, as sponsors can support these animals while also receiving photos and certificates, fostering a deeper connection to food sources and encouraging an examination of holiday traditions.
Kansas City, Missouri: Plaza Lighting Ceremony
Thanksgiving evening in Kansas City will also feature the annual Plaza Lighting Ceremony, with festivities starting at 6:30 p.m. and culminating in the light switch flip at 7:55 p.m. This year’s schedule has been adjusted to accommodate the kickoff of the Dallas Cowboys vs. Kansas City Chiefs game. The celebration is eagerly anticipated as a symbol of the holiday season, drawing in both locals and visitors alike.
College Basketball Tournaments
In addition to the festivities, several college basketball tournaments are set to take place during Thanksgiving week, including the Acrisure Invitational in Thousand Palms, California, and the Emerald Coast Classic in Niceville, Florida. These tournaments not only showcase promising talent but also offer fans thrilling matchups to enjoy over the holiday break.
Whether you are drawn to parades, sports, or special dining experiences, Thanksgiving 2025 promises a diverse array of celebrations across the United States. Engaging in these events enriches community ties and exemplifies the American spirit of gratitude and civic participation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade?
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is an annual event held in New York City, featuring giant character balloons, elaborate floats, marching bands, and celebrity performances. It starts at 8:30 a.m. Eastern Time on Thanksgiving Day and is televised nationally on NBC.
When is the Dallas Cowboys Thanksgiving Day game?
The Dallas Cowboys will play against the Kansas City Chiefs on Thursday, November 27, 2025, at 1:30 p.m. Pacific Time at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. The game will be broadcast nationally.
What is the Plaza Lighting Ceremony in Kansas City?
The Plaza Lighting Ceremony is an annual event in Kansas City that marks the official start of the holiday season. In 2025, the ceremony is scheduled for Thanksgiving evening, with festivities beginning at 6:30 p.m. and the light switch flip at 7:55 p.m. Free parking is available at Plaza parking garages, and nearby bars are expected to show the Kansas City Chiefs game against the Dallas Cowboys.
What are the Acrisure Invitational and Emerald Coast Classic?
The Acrisure Invitational and the Emerald Coast Classic are college basketball tournaments held during the Thanksgiving week. The Acrisure Invitational takes place at Acrisure Arena in Thousand Palms, California, while the Emerald Coast Classic is held at Raider Arena in Niceville, Florida. These tournaments feature teams from across the country competing in early-season matchups.
Key Features of Thanksgiving 2025 Events
| Event | Date | Location | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade | November 27, 2025 | New York City, NY | Annual parade featuring giant balloons, floats, and celebrity performances. Televised nationally on NBC. |
| Dallas Cowboys Thanksgiving Day Game | November 27, 2025 | Arlington, TX | Football game between the Dallas Cowboys and the Kansas City Chiefs at AT&T Stadium. Broadcast nationally. |
| Detroit’s Thanksgiving Parade | November 27, 2025 | Detroit, MI | 99th annual parade featuring new floats, celebrity appearances, and a festive atmosphere along Woodward Avenue. |
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Author: STAFF HERE DALLAS WRITER
The DALLAS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREDallas.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Dallas, Dallas County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the State Fair of Texas, Deep Ellum Arts Festival, and Dallas International Film Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Dallas Regional Chamber and United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, plus leading businesses in telecommunications, aviation, and semiconductors that power the local economy such as AT&T, Southwest Airlines, and Texas Instruments. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREHouston.com, and HERESanAntonio.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
