As millions of Americans prepare to gather for Thanksgiving in the wake of a contentious presidential election, a new Pew Research Center survey reveals how widely the traditions, activities, and discussions at Turkey Day tables vary. The findings, based on responses from 9,609 U.S. adults, underscore Thanksgiving’s enduring popularity while highlighting generational, cultural, and geographic differences.
Ninety-one percent of Americans celebrate Thanksgiving, with large majorities across all demographic groups observing the holiday. However, age and immigration status influence participation rates. For example, 96% of Americans 65 and older celebrate Thanksgiving, compared to smaller shares of younger adults. Among immigrants, celebration rates range from 93% for those in the U.S. for more than 20 years to 74% for those here a decade or less.
How Americans Celebrate
Three-quarters of Americans plan to share Thanksgiving dinner with others this year, though gathering sizes vary. About 26% expect to dine with more than 10 people, including 7% who anticipate being part of groups exceeding 20. Smaller get-togethers are more common, with 26% planning to dine with six to 10 others.
Many Americans will dine at home, whether hosting or not, with 34% planning to celebrate at their own residence. Another 39% will go to someone else’s home, while just 3% plan to eat out. Older adults are more likely than younger ones to host at their own homes, with 40% of those aged 50 and up planning to do so compared to 29% of adults under 50.
Thanksgiving dinner preferences reflect regional and generational divides. While Midwesterners and Southerners lean toward early afternoon meals (noon to 3 p.m.), Northeastern and Western residents often prefer later dining (3 to 6 p.m.). Seniors are more likely to eat earlier, while young adults favor later gatherings.
A Time for Gratitude and Reflection
Expressing gratitude is a hallmark of Thanksgiving. Around two-thirds of Americans say someone at their dinner typically says grace or shares what they are thankful for, with 56% reporting both practices. Religious affiliation significantly influences these traditions, with 91% of White evangelical Protestants and 88% of Black Protestants saying prayers are customary at their gatherings.
Meanwhile, atheists and agnostics are far less likely to incorporate prayer but still participate in expressions of gratitude, with 48% of atheists and 61% of agnostics noting the practice.
Conversations and Activities
Thanksgiving conversations are likely to touch on work, school, and even the recent election. While 35% of Americans expect to discuss work or school, 26% anticipate election-related talk. Trump voters are more likely to bring up the election (36%) than Harris voters (24%). Conservative Trump supporters are especially likely to broach the topic, with 39% predicting it will come up at their Thanksgiving table.
Beyond the table, Americans keep traditions alive with activities like watching football (35%) or parades (19%). Charity also plays a role, with 19% planning to donate food or goods. However, fewer Americans expect to volunteer (4%) or participate in events like turkey trots (3%).
Thanksgiving’s deep roots as a day of gratitude and connection remain steadfast, even as the ways Americans celebrate continue to reflect the country’s diversity and evolving traditions.
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