Americans may have their differences, but there’s one thing that brings everyone to the table, it’s Thanksgiving. After all, who can argue with table filled with all their favorite foods? Statista reports that Thanksgiving tops the list as the most-celebrated holiday in the U.S., with almost 80% of Americans gathering to enjoy the tradition.
Here’s a look at how we’re gearing up to celebrate this season.
Menu Planning
Although, most Americans start planning their menu and guest list about a month before Thanksgiving, Google searches for recipe and decorating ideas can begin as early as September.
Recipe Inspiration
Maybe mom’s apple pie isn’t as good as it could be! Here are the top five places consumers turn to for Thanksgiving recipe ideas.
- Food & Cooking Websites
- YouTube
- Family Recipes
- Social Media
#1 TikTok
#2 Instagram
#3 Pinterest
- TV Cooking Shows
Talking Turkey
88% say turkey is the centerpiece of Thanksgiving dinner
40% also enjoy ham on T-Giving
The Sides Steal the Show
The most popular side dishes.
- Stuffing
- Rolls/biscuits
- Mashed potatoes
- Mac and cheese
- Cranberry sauce
It’s All About Family
Americans say their three most cherished Thanksgiving traditions are
65% sharing the T-Giving meal together
52% spending time with extended family or old friends
27% cooking together
It’s not just your biological family that matters, 17% of Americans celebrate Thanksgiving with their closest pals. Interestingly, among those who celebrate, 60% say it’s more FUN than their family Thanksgiving!
What About Leftovers?
Better make a second turkey! 96% of Americans surveyed say they love Thanksgiving leftovers. Here’s how they enjoy them:
44% use in a sandwich
41% incorporate turkey into other meals (soups, tacos, etc…)
32% re-create actual Thanksgiving dinner
Sources:
- Statista
- Hormel Consumer Insights on All Things Thanksgiving 2024
- Pew Research | For Thanksgiving, 6 Facts About Americans and Family
- Think with Google Thanksgiving Search Data
- Inspira First-Party Research Thanksgiving Recipes n=120
