20 Thanksgiving 2025 Trends Every Brand Needs to See

Thanksgiving is one of the most important holidays in the US for families to get together and shop. People spent more than $6.1 billion on Thanksgiving-related items in 2024 (Adobe, 2024), and spending is expected to keep going up in 2025. For brands, this season is not only about turkey dinners but also a key time to connect with customers through creative offers, themed products, and emotional marketing.

The challenge is knowing what trends will shape how people shop and celebrate this year. In this guide, we will explore the top 20 Thanksgiving 2025 trends every brand needs to see. Based on new data, shopper behavior, and market insights, these trends will help you plan smarter campaigns, attract attention, and make the most of the holiday season.

Why Thanksgiving Still Matters for Brands

Thanksgiving matters for brands because it's a major opportunity to drive sales by kicking off the holiday shopping season and allows for deeper consumer connections through emotional, gratitude-focused, or community-oriented campaigns.

Here is why Thanksgiving still matters for brands:

• Emotional connection: Thanksgiving is all about being thankful, spending time with family, and being together. This gives brands a huge chance to connect with their audience in a real way through heartfelt campaigns.
• Shopping window before the holidays: A lot of people start their holiday shopping around Thanksgiving, so it's a great time to advertise early deals and limited-time offers.
• More people are using the internet: During Thanksgiving week, when people are home, online shopping and browsing go up a lot, which opens up chances for digital sales.
• Brand storytelling: Themes like giving back and being thankful during the holidays help brands make strong marketing stories that stick with people.
• Cross-promotion potential: Thanksgiving bridges into Black Friday and Cyber Monday, helping brands drive momentum across all major shopping days.

In short, Thanksgiving gives brands the chance to connect emotionally, sell strategically, and prepare for the biggest shopping days that follow.

On the other hand, even the best Thanksgiving marketing ideas won’t do much if you don’t have a place to showcase them. The good news? You don’t need to be a tech expert to set up your store. Shopify gives you everything you need: easy drag-and-drop design, built-in tools, and flexibility to take advantage of the trends that matter most this Thanksgiving.

Thanksgiving in Numbers: What the Data Says About 2025

(Source: Adobe, 2025)

Data shows mixed consumer feelings: some plan to spend more, while others focus on saving. This means Thanksgiving 2025 will balance between celebration and cautious budgeting.

• Travel Trends: Nearly 80 million Americans will travel 50 miles or more, including 71 million drivers and 5.6 million flyers. Travel is slightly higher than last year, showing people still value family gatherings despite economic uncertainty.
• Money and the Economy: People are expected to spend about $890 on gifts, food, decorations, and travel. Spending is slightly lower than in 2024, showing shoppers are being careful but still want to enjoy the holiday.
• Costs and Use of Food: Turkey prices may reach $1.71 per pound, with overall meals costing around $6570 for ten people. Higher prices and smaller flocks mean families are finding smart ways to manage costs.
• Participation and Waste: Thanksgiving is still a big deal, with polls showing that 89 to 91 percent of Americans celebrate it, but about 316 million pounds of food may go to waste. This highlights the need for smarter meal planning and less food waste.

The most important thing to remember about Thanksgiving 2025 is that it is a mix of tradition, celebration, and careful planning. Families are traveling, spending money, and cooking meals carefully to keep the holiday spirit alive while also keeping costs, convenience, and the environment in mind.

20 Thanksgiving 2025 Trends to Watch

For Thanksgiving 2025, the decor will be a mix of old and new styles, with an unexpected color scheme of deep blues, oranges, and reds. Food trends are leaning toward plant-based options and creative, global flavors. Gift-giving trends are leaning toward premium, experiential gifts that are good for the environment. Travel is moving away from traditional family homes and toward more unique places.

1. Evolving Food Trends for Thanksgiving 2025

(Source: Lemon8)

The way people eat on Thanksgiving is changing quickly. Turkey, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie are still popular, but many families are adding new flavors, creative recipes, and healthy options to their tables.

Trend #1: Old Favorites with a New Twist

People still love traditional Thanksgiving foods in 2025, but they want something new and exciting. A lot of families are changing up their favorite foods, like mashed potatoes, stuffing, and pumpkin pie, by adding new flavors and ingredients. Adding spicy maple glazes, smoked herbs, or gourmet cheeses to old recipes is one way to make them more interesting.

How can brands use this trend?

• Offer modern kitchen tools or cookware that make holiday cooking easier.
• Share creative recipe ideas or cooking videos featuring your products.
• Promote ingredients or gift bundles that mix classic and trendy items.

Trend #2: Global Fusion and Flavor Innovation

Thanksgiving menus are becoming more international. Dishes with Asian, Latin, or Mediterranean flavors are growing in popularity. Shoppers are experimenting with things like Korean BBQ turkey, taco-inspired stuffing, or curry-spiced sides.

How can brands use this trend?

• Introduce globally inspired ingredients or recipe kits.
• Collaborate with chefs or influencers who highlight multicultural cooking.
• Create content showing how to blend global and local tastes for family meals.

Trend #3: Plant-Based and Alternative Proteins Rise

More people are choosing plant-based or flexitarian diets, and Thanksgiving is no exception. Shoppers are adding meat-free options like lentil loaves, mushroom wellingtons, and tofu roasts to the table. Even non-vegans enjoy these as lighter choices alongside traditional dishes.

How can brands use this trend?

• Promote plant-based products as main dishes or side options.
• Highlight the health & environmental benefits of these foods.

• Offer discounts or bundles that encourage customers to try new plant-based recipes.

Trend #4: Desserts and Drinks Go Experiential

Desserts and drinks are becoming a full experience. Shoppers are trying creative ideas like build-your-own dessert bars, flavored hot chocolate stations, or interactive cocktail kits. Presentation is as important as taste.

How can brands use this trend?

• Sell DIY dessert or drink-making kits for family activities.
• Offer limited-edition seasonal flavors for sweets or beverages.
• Use social media to share creative serving ideas that inspire festive moments.

Thanksgiving 2025 is about mixing tradition with creativity. Families still love the comfort of familiar dishes, but they are also eager to try global, healthy, and interactive food experiences that make the celebration unique.

2. Home & Decor Trends

Thanksgiving home decor 2025 is moving away from traditional styles and toward more modern, natural, and creative ones. Families are using decorations to show who they are, how much they care about the planet, and how much they love each other. Many people are now decorating their whole homes in a cozy and thoughtful holiday style, not just the dining room.

Trend #5: Modern color schemes take the place of classic browns

The colors for Thanksgiving in 2025 are moving away from deep browns and oranges. People are picking softer, more modern colors like terracotta, sage green, muted gold, and creamy beige. These colors are warm, but they also feel new and classy.

How can brands take advantage of this Thanksgiving trend? 

• Sell tableware and home decor in trendy, neutral colors.
• Share inspiration boards or social media posts showing modern color combinations.
• Create bundles that include candles, napkins, and accessories in matching palettes.

Trend #6: Nature-Inspired, Sustainable Decor

Eco-conscious shopping continues to grow. People want to decorate with materials that look natural and are better for the environment, such as bamboo, recycled glass, dried flowers, or linen fabrics.

How can brands use this trend?

• Promote decor made from eco-friendly or locally sourced materials.
• Offer reusable table settings or packaging to reduce waste.
• Highlight how your products help create a natural and inviting holiday feel.

Trend #7: Tablescape Statements and Whole-Home Cohesion

Thanksgiving tablescapes are now the centerpiece of celebration. Shoppers love creative setups with layered textures, candles, and personal touches. Beyond the table, they are also styling entryways, living rooms, and even kitchens to match the same theme for a complete look.

How can brands use this trend?

• Sell matching decor collections for the whole home, not just the dining area.
• Share step-by-step setup guides or styling videos for inspiration.
• Offer themed bundles that make it easy for customers to decorate in one go.

The home and decor trends for Thanksgiving 2025 are all about comfort, creativity, and connection. Families want spaces that feel modern but cozy, with new color trends, natural materials, and designs that go well together to make the celebration look good from every angle.

3. Gathering & Celebration Formats Evolve

Thanksgiving is different for people now. Family dinners are still special, but new ways of doing things are making the holiday more fun, flexible, and personal. In 2025, parties are getting smaller, more creative, and more like how people live now.

Trend #8: Getting together in smaller groups that still matter

A lot of people now like to get together with a few close friends or family members instead of a lot of people. These smaller dinners let people talk more deeply, feel less stressed, and make more thoughtful choices about food and decorations.

What can brands do with this trend?

• Offer meal kits or tableware sized for smaller groups.
• Promote cozy, personal touches like custom name cards or mini dessert packs.
• Share content that helps hosts create meaningful celebrations without overspending.

Trend #9: Friendsgiving Goes Mainstream

Friendsgiving is becoming just as popular as traditional Thanksgiving. Younger generations and city dwellers are celebrating early with friends before heading home to family. The focus is on fun, comfort food, and shared experiences.

How can brands use this trend?

• Create Friendsgiving bundles with easy-to-share snacks, drinks, or decor.
• Collaborate with influencers to show creative Friendsgiving setups.
• Offer discounts for group purchases or themed hosting kits.

Trend #10: Travel-Friendly Celebrations

More families are celebrating Thanksgiving while traveling or visiting different locations. From vacation rentals to outdoor gatherings, flexibility is key. People want celebrations that fit into their travel plans without losing the holiday spirit.

How can brands use this trend?

• Promote travel-size products, portable cooking tools, or decor that is easy to pack.
• Share ideas for celebrating Thanksgiving on the go, such as outdoor picnics or cabin dinners.
• Offer bundles for travelers, including meal prep tools and compact decor.

Being open to new things, connecting with others, and feeling comfortable are all important parts of Thanksgiving 2025. People want experiences that are unique, easy, and full of love, like a small family dinner, a friendly get-together, or a trip.

4. Shopping & Consumer Behavior Trends

Shopping habits around Thanksgiving are changing fast. Shoppers are starting earlier, using smarter tools, and blending online and in-store experiences to get the best value. In 2025, convenience, personalization, and trust are shaping how people decide where and what to buy.

Trend #11: Thanksgiving and Black Friday Shopping Overlap

Black Friday is starting earlier each year, and in 2025, it is already blending with Thanksgiving week. Many brands begin their discounts in mid-November, turning Thanksgiving into both a celebration and a shopping moment. This shift pushes spending earlier and spreads it out, making November one long holiday shopping period.

How can brands use this trend?

• Run Thanksgiving and pre-Black Friday deals together to attract both planners and last-minute buyers.
• Create themed promotions that tie gratitude or family moments to early savings.
• Use email & social media to remind customers that deals start before Black Friday officially begins.
• Keep top products in stock throughout Thanksgiving week to meet continuous demand.

Trend #12: AI Shopping Assistants and Personalization

Shoppers are using AI tools to find the best deals, gift ideas, and personalized recommendations. From chatbots to AI-driven product finders, technology is making shopping smarter and faster.

How can brands use this trend?

• Add AI-powered tools to help customers choose the right products.
• Personalize email and ad campaigns based on customer preferences.
• Use data to suggest matching products or bundles that boost order value.

Trend #13: In-Store Comeback Meets Digital Convenience

After years of online-first shopping, more people are returning to stores for hands-on experiences while still enjoying digital perks. Many expect easy online ordering, in-store pickup, and fast checkout.

How can brands use this trend?

• Offer hybrid options like buy online, pick up in store (BOPIS).
• Make in-store experiences more engaging with demos or photo areas.
• Use QR codes and mobile apps to link online and offline shopping.

Trend #14: Affordability and Transparency Lead 

Consumers are becoming much more frugal with their spending more than ever before as prices rise. They desire honest promotions, transparent shipping costs, and reasonable prices. Open-minded brands foster greater brand loyalty.

How can brands use this trend?

• Be clear about pricing, discounts, and delivery times.
• Offer value bundles that help customers save more per purchase.
• Highlight honest reviews and social proof to build trust.

Thanksgiving 2025 shoppers are more tech-savvy, astute, and determined to score the best deal than ever before. During the busiest time of year, brands that make a step forward to go further on offering personalized experiences, early discounts, and open communication will surely stand out & draw repeat business.

5. Using technology in the Thanksgiving experience

(Source: The New York Times)

Technology is changing how families plan, cook, and celebrate Thanksgiving. From smart kitchen tools to digital connections with loved ones, tech is making the holiday easier, more creative, and more connected than ever before.

Trend #15: Smart Kitchens and AI Meal Planning

More households are using smart kitchen devices and AI tools to make cooking stress-free. From voice-controlled ovens to AI meal planners that create shopping lists, technology helps save time and reduce food waste.

How can brands use this trend?

• Promote smart kitchen gadgets or appliances designed for family meals.
• Create digital recipe guides or AI-powered cooking planners that use your products.
• Share tutorials showing how technology can simplify Thanksgiving cooking.

Trend #16: Meal Kits and Hybrid Cooking

Meal kits that combine ready-made and homemade elements are becoming popular. Shoppers enjoy cooking but also want convenience. Kits that include pre-measured ingredients, sauces, or side dishes help make meals faster while keeping the homemade touch.

How can brands use this trend?

• Offer ready-to-cook kits or pre-packed ingredients for popular Thanksgiving dishes.
• Partner with food influencers to show easy hybrid cooking ideas.
• Promote bundles that help customers mix store-bought and home-prepared items.

Trend #17: Virtual Gatherings and Digital Storytelling

Families who cannot meet in person are using technology to celebrate together. Video calls, virtual dinner parties, and shared digital photo albums are making long-distance Thanksgiving celebrations meaningful.

How can brands use this trend?

• Encourage customers to share their Thanksgiving moments online using your brand hashtag.
• Create virtual event kits that include decor, games, or recipes for remote gatherings.
• Use social media to host Thanksgiving-themed challenges or contests that build community.

Thanksgiving 2025 is blending tradition with technology. Smart tools, digital connections, and creative cooking solutions are helping families celebrate together, no matter where they are, while keeping the spirit of the holiday alive.

6. Sustainability & Conscious Celebration Trends

In 2025, Thanksgiving will involve more than just eating and family time—it will also involve making wise choices. More and more people are thinking of ways to celebrate that benefit their communities and the environment. By purchasing locally and reducing waste, families are organizing and celebrating the holiday in a more environmentally friendly manner.

Trend #18: Waste Reduction and Smart Portioning

Shoppers are becoming more aware of food waste during big meals. Many are planning menus more carefully, cooking smaller portions, and finding creative ways to reuse leftovers. This approach helps save money and reduces the impact on the environment.

How can brands use this trend?

• Offer smaller serving options or portion-friendly packaging.
• Share recipes that use leftovers in tasty new ways.
• Promote storage containers or compostable packaging for after-meal use.

Trend #19: Local and Seasonal Focus

More families are buying local and choosing ingredients that are in season. This supports small farmers and reduces transportation emissions while giving meals a fresher taste and quality.

How can brands use this trend?

• Highlight local sourcing and seasonal ingredients in your products.
• Partner with local farms or artisans for Thanksgiving bundles.
• Educate shoppers about the benefits of buying closer to home.

Trend #20: Charity and Community Giving

Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude, and many shoppers want to give back. People are donating meals, volunteering, and supporting brands that care about social good.

How can brands use this trend?

• Run campaigns where part of the sales go to charity or community causes.
• Encourage customers to donate through your store or app.
• Share real stories about how your brand gives back during the holidays.

Thanksgiving 2025 is becoming more thoughtful and purpose-driven. Families are showing that celebrating with care for people and the planet makes the holiday even more meaningful.

Others also read

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• Top 11 Thanksgiving Marketing Ideas To Boost Sales
• How to Build a Thanksgiving Landing Page for a Shopify Store

How to Ride the Thanksgiving 2025 Wave

To make sure your business has a successful Thanksgiving in 2025, plan ahead, start your promotions early, make interesting Thanksgiving-themed content, and use data to guide your strategy. Plan your content calendar and schedule posts ahead of time so you can spend time with family & friends on the holiday itself.

Step 1: Early Planning (4 to 6 Weeks Before Thanksgiving)

To begin, look at last year's sales and figure out which products sold the best. Make sure you have enough stock of items that are in high demand, especially food that goes bad quickly or limited-edition items. Plan social media posts, email campaigns, and promotions ahead of time to get people excited.

What to do:

• Get a lot of important things and make bundles.
• Set up emails and social media posts that show off early deals.
• Find people who can help you or work with you.

Phase 2: Getting people excited and involved (2-3 weeks before Thanksgiving)

Show shoppers what's popular, give them gift ideas, and offer Thanksgiving bundles to get them interested. Make your campaigns more appealing by using personalization and social proof. To get people to buy early, stress how easy it is, how free shipping is, and how limited-time offers are.

Steps to take:

• Share guides or videos showing how products fit into Thanksgiving celebrations.
• Run early-bird promotions or tiered discounts.
• Highlight delivery timelines and guarantee on-time arrival.

Phase 3: The best sales and the Thanksgiving holiday weekend

Make shopping easy and stress-free during the holiday week. Pay attention to people who shop at the last minute and how easy it is to shop online. Make sure that your website, stock, and customer service can handle a lot of traffic and fast orders.

Steps to take:

• Give customers the option of faster shipping or picking up their order in-store.
• Offer gift sets, meal kits, or home decor items for people who need to buy something quickly.
• Keep an eye on stock levels and let customers know when items are in stock.

Phase 4: Post-Holiday Follow-Up

Keep talking to customers after Thanksgiving to turn them into repeat buyers. Send emails to say thank you, suggest products, and give sneak peeks of deals that will be available on Black Friday & Cyber Monday.

Steps to take:

• Send personalized follow-ups and loyalty offers.
• Get reviews and feedback to make future campaigns better.
• Point out any seasonal items that are still available for clearance or next year's sales.

By doing these things, brands can take advantage of the Thanksgiving 2025 wave and turn holiday excitement into sales, happy customers, and long-term loyalty.

Practical Tools & Resources for Brands and Hosts

Brands should use social media, email campaigns, and data analytics to promote Thanksgiving, create themed content, and get customers involved. Hosts need resources like festive and practical servingware, drinkware, and specialized kitchen tools such as carving sets, meat thermometers, and basting brushes to manage their feast. 

For Brands:

• Tools for managing inventory and orders: Keep track of your stock, estimate how much you'll need, and avoid selling too much during busy holiday weeks.
• Email marketing platforms let you plan campaigns, send personalized offers, and get customers interested with gift guides or product bundles.
• Social Media Scheduling Tools: Make posts, run ads, and work with influencers to get the most exposure.
• AI and personalization software can suggest products, make curated bundles, and make the shopping experience better for each customer.
• Analytics and reporting tools let you keep an eye on sales, traffic, and engagement so you can change your plans right away.

For Hosts:

• Meal planning apps help you keep track of your recipes, shopping lists, and portion sizes so you don't have to worry about cooking.
• Virtual Gathering Platforms: Use video calls or fun online activities to connect with family or friends who can't be there in person.
• Decor and DIY Guides: Use online templates, styling tips, and how-to videos to make your home and tables look festive.
• Apps for making shopping lists and budgets help you stay on track with your spending while making sure you have all the food, decorations, and gifts you need.
• Tools for sustainability: Use eco-friendly apps or guides to plan your leftovers, cut down on waste, and recycle packaging.

By using these helpful tools together, brands can get more people to buy from them and get more people to talk about them. Thanksgiving can also be a smooth and memorable time for hosts. Both benefit from technology, planning, and tools that are easy to use and make the holiday more fun and less stressful for everyone.

Conclusion

Thanksgiving 2025 appears to be a time of opportunity, creativity, and connection. With evolving food trends, contemporary home décor, new shopping habits, and tech-driven experiences, families are celebrating in fresh and meaningful ways.

With carefully thought-out sales, prompt discounts, and merchandise that follows the trends of the season, brands can best engage with consumers at this time. By understanding how customers behave, making plans in advance, and utilizing helpful tools, businesses can maximize the holiday, increase sales, and create enduring loyalty.

FAQs

1. How early should I start my Thanksgiving campaign?

You should start making plans 4 to 6 weeks before Thanksgiving. This gives you enough time to plan sales, get your stock ready, and set up emails or posts on social media. Getting started early also helps you reach people who start shopping and browsing before Black Friday.

2. How can small businesses compete with big brands this Thanksgiving?

Small businesses can put more effort into offering personalized service, one-of-a-kind products, and creative marketing. Tell the story of your brand, offer special bundles, or give customers faster and more flexible shipping options. Your store can stand out by using social media and providing thoughtful experiences to connect with customers.

3. What products are most popular for Thanksgiving 2025?

Popular products include seasonal food items, home and table decor, gift bundles, kitchen gadgets, meal kits, and experiential desserts or drinks. Shoppers are also interested in tech tools, sustainable items, and products that make gatherings easier, more creative, or more personal.