The observance of Thanksgiving in the United States occurs annually on the fourth Thursday of November. This established tradition sets the date for the holiday, which is primarily celebrated as a day of gratitude, often centered around a large meal shared with family and friends. Determining the specific calendar date requires calculating the fourth Thursday within that particular November.
Understanding the placement of Thanksgiving on the calendar each year is important for planning purposes. It impacts scheduling family gatherings, coordinating travel arrangements, and organizing various seasonal activities and promotions. Historically, the date has been consistent, providing a predictable timeframe for these important activities and preparations.
This article will provide the specific date for the 2019 Thanksgiving holiday. It will then explore related topics such as the holiday’s origins, common traditions, and its broader cultural significance within the United States.
1. Fourth Thursday
The phrase “Fourth Thursday” serves as the determinant for the annual celebration of Thanksgiving in the United States. The date of Thanksgiving is not fixed; instead, it is explicitly defined as the fourth Thursday of November. This fixed-day-of-the-week-within-the-month definition directly dictates the exact date of the holiday each year. Without the “Fourth Thursday” designation, there would be no consistent method for establishing the Thanksgiving date, leading to potential confusion and logistical challenges.
The importance of “Fourth Thursday” can be illustrated by examining years where November 1st falls on different days of the week. If November 1st is a Thursday, then Thanksgiving falls on November 22nd. If November 1st is a Friday, then Thanksgiving is observed on November 28th. In 2019, November 1st was a Friday, making November 28th the “Fourth Thursday” and therefore, Thanksgiving Day. This demonstrates the direct causal link between the “Fourth Thursday” specification and the resulting calendar date.
In summary, “Fourth Thursday” is not merely a descriptive term but the foundational component for defining the date of Thanksgiving each year. Its consistent application provides a predictable and reliable framework for planning, coordinating, and celebrating this national holiday. Understanding this connection is crucial for comprehending the logistical and cultural significance of Thanksgiving in the United States.
2. November 28th
November 28th represents the specific date on which Thanksgiving was observed in the United States during the year 2019. Its relevance stems directly from the established tradition of celebrating Thanksgiving on the fourth Thursday of November. Understanding the relationship between this date and the broader context of the holiday necessitates a detailed examination of its components.
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Calendar Calculation
Determining that Thanksgiving fell on November 28th, 2019, involves identifying the fourth Thursday in that particular month. This requires recognizing the day of the week on which November 1st occurred, and subsequently counting forward to locate the fourth Thursday. This calculation is consistent across all years, ensuring the holiday’s predictable placement.
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Travel and Logistics
The designation of November 28th as Thanksgiving Day held significant implications for travel and logistical planning. Millions of individuals traversed the country to gather with family, necessitating meticulous scheduling and coordination. Transportation networks experienced peak demand, and businesses adjusted operations to accommodate the holiday. The date served as a focal point for these activities.
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Economic Impact
November 28th played a crucial role in the economic landscape of the United States, particularly concerning retail and consumer spending. With “Black Friday” immediately following Thanksgiving, this period marked the beginning of the holiday shopping season. Retailers launched promotions and sales campaigns timed to coincide with the holiday, significantly influencing consumer behavior. The date’s impact extended to various sectors, including hospitality and food service.
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Cultural Significance
The association of November 28th with Thanksgiving Day reinforces the cultural significance of the holiday. It represents a designated time for gratitude, reflection, and familial bonding. Traditions such as preparing a Thanksgiving meal, watching parades, and engaging in charitable activities are central to the cultural observance. The date provides a recurring opportunity to reinforce these values and traditions.
In conclusion, November 28th’s connection to Thanksgiving 2019 extends beyond its simple designation as a calendar date. It encapsulates a complex interplay of logistical, economic, and cultural factors that collectively define the holiday experience. Its importance lies in its role as a central point around which various facets of American life converge during this time of year.
3. Annual tradition
The designation of Thanksgiving as an “annual tradition” establishes a framework within which the specific date, in this instance, November 28th, 2019, gains significance. The consistent observance of Thanksgiving on the fourth Thursday of November creates a predictable cycle, impacting individual and collective planning. Because Thanksgiving is an “annual tradition,” individuals and organizations engage in anticipatory behaviors related to travel, commerce, and family gatherings. The absence of this “annual tradition” status would introduce uncertainty, disrupting established patterns and behaviors.
The “annual tradition” element provides a reliable structure for economic activities. Retailers plan for the holiday shopping season, particularly Black Friday, based on the predictable Thanksgiving date. Families coordinate travel and meal preparations, knowing that the fourth Thursday of November is reserved for the holiday. Charitable organizations conduct food drives, and community centers organize events, all within the established timeframe of the “annual tradition.” These activities directly demonstrate the practical application of this annual observance.
In summary, the connection between “annual tradition” and a specific Thanksgiving date, such as November 28th, 2019, is causative. The status of Thanksgiving as an “annual tradition” dictates the consistent methodology used to determine the date, while simultaneously facilitating economic planning and cultural activities. Understanding this connection is critical for appreciating the role of tradition in shaping societal behaviors and economic landscapes. Disruption of this tradition would present challenges across various sectors, underscoring the value of its continuity.
4. United States
The designation of November 28th, 2019, as Thanksgiving Day is intrinsically linked to the cultural and legal framework of the United States. The holiday, as it is recognized and celebrated, is specific to the United States and its historical evolution. Understanding the date requires understanding its position within the American context.
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National Holiday Designation
Thanksgiving’s status as a federal holiday within the United States directly dictates its annual observance. Federal law establishes Thanksgiving as the fourth Thursday in November, therefore setting the date. This legal framework ensures that government offices are closed, and it influences private sector practices regarding work schedules and compensation. The designation shapes the broader societal recognition and celebration of the event.
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Historical and Cultural Context
The Thanksgiving tradition carries specific historical and cultural connotations within the United States. The narrative surrounding the first Thanksgiving, while historically nuanced, is central to the American understanding of the holiday. The symbolism of gratitude, harvest, and community is deeply ingrained in the national identity. The date, therefore, is not merely an arbitrary point in time but a symbolic representation of historical and cultural values specific to the United States.
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Economic Impact within the U.S.
The United States experiences a significant economic impact related to Thanksgiving. The holiday initiates a major consumer spending period, with retail sales surging during “Black Friday” and the subsequent holiday season. Travel, food service, and hospitality industries also benefit from increased activity. These economic consequences are exclusive to the United States, reflecting the unique relationship between the holiday and the nation’s economy.
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Regional Variations within the Country
While Thanksgiving is a national holiday, regional variations in traditions and customs exist within the United States. Specific food preferences, local events, and regional histories influence how the holiday is celebrated across different states and communities. These variations further emphasize the localized and culturally specific nature of Thanksgiving within the United States, shaping the unique experience of November 28th, 2019, in different regions.
In summary, the date of Thanksgiving in 2019, November 28th, gains its full meaning within the context of the United States. The legal designation, historical narrative, economic impact, and regional variations collectively frame the holiday as a distinctively American event. Without acknowledging this national framework, the date loses its broader significance and the intricate layers of meaning associated with Thanksgiving traditions.
5. Autumn Season
The occurrence of Thanksgiving on November 28th, 2019, is inherently linked to the “Autumn season.” The date falls unequivocally within the climatological and cultural boundaries of autumn in the Northern Hemisphere, particularly in the United States. This temporal alignment has significant implications for the traditions, symbolism, and practical aspects associated with the holiday. The autumn harvest, characterized by specific crops and weather patterns, provides a contextual backdrop for Thanksgiving celebrations.
The practical impact of the “Autumn season” on Thanksgiving is evident in various facets. Seasonal food availability shapes traditional Thanksgiving meals. Crops harvested during autumn, such as pumpkins, cranberries, and root vegetables, become central components of the Thanksgiving feast. Furthermore, weather conditions during this time of year often influence travel plans and outdoor activities associated with the holiday. For example, harvest festivals leading up to Thanksgiving directly celebrate the season’s bounty. Retail marketing campaigns often incorporate imagery and themes associated with autumn foliage and seasonal abundance, creating a cohesive holiday atmosphere. The psychological association with autumn, marked by cooler temperatures and changing landscapes, also contributes to a sense of reflection and gratitude that aligns with the holiday’s core values.
In conclusion, the connection between the “Autumn season” and the observance of Thanksgiving on November 28th, 2019, extends beyond a mere coincidence of dates. Autumn provides the environmental, economic, and cultural context that shapes the holiday’s traditions and practical applications. Understanding this relationship allows for a more complete appreciation of the holiday’s significance and its integral role within the broader framework of the American cultural landscape. The seasonal context is essential for understanding Thanksgiving’s traditions and symbolism.
6. Holiday planning
The process of holiday planning is inextricably linked to the definitive date of Thanksgiving in any given year, including November 28th, 2019. The specific date serves as the foundation upon which all subsequent logistical and preparatory activities are built. Its accurate determination is paramount for individuals, families, businesses, and organizations involved in observing the holiday.
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Travel Arrangements
The date of Thanksgiving directly dictates the scheduling and coordination of travel arrangements. Individuals planning to visit family members or travel for leisure activities must align their itineraries with the holiday date. Flight bookings, train reservations, and road trip plans are all contingent upon knowing the precise date, thereby minimizing travel disruptions and ensuring timely arrival for celebrations.
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Meal Preparation and Grocery Shopping
Holiday planning encompasses the preparation of a traditional Thanksgiving meal, which necessitates careful planning of menus, grocery shopping, and culinary execution. The date of the holiday directly informs the timing of these activities. Individuals and families must determine the amount of food required, prepare shopping lists, and schedule time for cooking and baking, all based on the date of Thanksgiving.
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Retail Promotions and Marketing Campaigns
Retail businesses engage in holiday planning by developing and implementing marketing campaigns and promotional strategies. The date of Thanksgiving serves as a crucial point in the retail calendar, often marking the beginning of the holiday shopping season. Retailers schedule sales events, launch advertising campaigns, and adjust inventory levels based on the approaching Thanksgiving date to maximize sales and cater to consumer demand.
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Community Events and Charitable Activities
Community organizations and charitable groups often coordinate events and initiatives related to Thanksgiving, such as food drives, community meals, and volunteer opportunities. The date of the holiday directly influences the scheduling and execution of these activities. Organizations must plan logistics, secure venues, and recruit volunteers in alignment with the date to effectively serve the community and provide assistance to those in need.
In essence, the date of Thanksgiving, specifically November 28th, 2019, is not merely a calendar entry but a catalyst for a wide range of planning activities across various sectors of society. From personal travel arrangements to large-scale retail operations, the date’s significance lies in its role as a central point of coordination and preparation for the holiday. Accurate determination and dissemination of the date are therefore essential for facilitating smooth and effective holiday planning at all levels.
7. Family gatherings
The planning and execution of family gatherings are inextricably linked to the specific date of Thanksgiving, particularly November 28th, 2019. This date serves as the anchor around which families coordinate travel, meals, and shared activities. The temporal certainty provided by the designated Thanksgiving date enables complex logistical arrangements and reinforces the cultural significance of familial unity during this period.
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Travel Coordination
Family gatherings often necessitate travel, sometimes across considerable distances. The confirmed date of Thanksgiving enables individuals to book transportation, arrange lodging, and synchronize schedules with relatives residing in different locations. In 2019, the certainty of November 28th facilitated these travel arrangements, allowing families to converge despite geographical barriers. This coordination underscores the practical importance of the date in enabling familial unity.
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Meal Planning and Preparation
The Thanksgiving meal is a central component of family gatherings. The date of the holiday allows for advance planning of menus, procurement of ingredients, and allocation of cooking responsibilities. Family members may collaborate on preparing traditional dishes, sharing culinary skills and recipes. In 2019, families across the United States engaged in this coordinated effort, using November 28th as a fixed point for their culinary preparations, strengthening familial bonds through shared effort.
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Tradition and Ritual Observance
Family gatherings on Thanksgiving often involve the observance of specific traditions and rituals, passed down through generations. The date of the holiday provides a recurring opportunity to enact these practices, reinforcing family identity and cultural heritage. These traditions might include saying grace, sharing stories, or engaging in specific games or activities. In 2019, families upheld these traditions on November 28th, perpetuating cultural continuity and strengthening familial connections.
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Intergenerational Connection
Thanksgiving family gatherings often bring together multiple generations, providing opportunities for interaction and connection between grandparents, parents, and children. The date of the holiday facilitates the scheduling of these intergenerational gatherings, enabling younger family members to learn from older generations and fostering a sense of continuity. In 2019, November 28th facilitated these intergenerational connections, allowing families to share experiences and strengthen bonds across age groups.
The date of Thanksgiving, as exemplified by November 28th, 2019, is thus more than a mere calendar entry. It functions as a critical coordinating point that enables travel, facilitates meal preparation, reinforces traditions, and fosters intergenerational connections within families. The temporal certainty provided by the date underscores its profound influence on the planning and execution of meaningful family gatherings during this annual holiday.
8. Travel impacts
The date of Thanksgiving, specifically November 28th, 2019, exerts a significant influence on travel patterns across the United States. The convergence of millions traveling to be with family and friends creates predictable surges in demand for various modes of transportation. This demand manifests in increased airline bookings, heightened traffic congestion on roadways, and greater utilization of public transportation systems. The specific date, therefore, is a primary driver of these widespread travel impacts.
A direct consequence of this increased travel is elevated prices for transportation services. Airlines often increase ticket prices during the Thanksgiving travel period due to high demand, and rental car companies experience similar pricing fluctuations. Congestion on roadways leads to increased travel times and fuel consumption. Furthermore, transportation infrastructure, such as airports and highways, faces strain due to the sheer volume of travelers. For example, major airports often report significant delays and long security lines during the days leading up to and following November 28th, 2019. These factors demonstrate the practical effects of the Thanksgiving date on travel infrastructure and costs. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and Department of Transportation (DOT) actively monitor and manage these impacts through resource allocation and traffic management strategies.
In conclusion, the relationship between the date of Thanksgiving in 2019 and travel patterns is demonstrably causal. The fixed date on the calendar dictates the timing of a major national migration, resulting in predictable congestion, increased costs, and strain on transportation infrastructure. Understanding these travel impacts is crucial for individuals planning holiday travel, as well as for transportation agencies and businesses seeking to mitigate potential disruptions and manage resources effectively. Effective planning necessitates acknowledging the influence of the Thanksgiving date on nationwide travel dynamics.
9. Retail calendars
The observance of Thanksgiving, specifically its occurrence on November 28th, 2019, dictates the structure and timing of retail calendars across the United States. Retail calendars, encompassing promotional periods, inventory management, and staffing schedules, are directly influenced by the established Thanksgiving date. Understanding this connection is essential for comprehending the strategic planning within the retail sector.
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Black Friday Preparations
Black Friday, a major shopping event, traditionally follows Thanksgiving. Retail calendars are structured to maximize sales during this period, beginning preparations weeks or even months in advance. Inventory is increased, sales strategies are formulated, and staffing levels are adjusted to accommodate anticipated customer volume. November 28th, 2019, as Thanksgiving, served as the precise launch point for these Black Friday campaigns.
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Holiday Promotional Cycles
Thanksgiving initiates the broader holiday shopping season. Retail calendars incorporate phased promotional cycles, beginning with Thanksgiving-themed offers and progressing to Christmas and New Year’s discounts. Marketing campaigns are designed to leverage the cultural significance of Thanksgiving, driving early consumer spending. The calendar date, November 28th, acted as the trigger for this sequential rollout of holiday-related promotions.
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Inventory Management Strategies
Retailers utilize inventory management strategies to ensure adequate stock levels throughout the holiday season. Thanksgiving serves as a crucial inflection point for inventory planning, triggering replenishment orders and adjustments to product displays. Data analysis, based on past Thanksgiving sales trends, informs these decisions, minimizing stockouts and maximizing sales opportunities. November 28th was a key reference point for retailers’ supply chain logistics.
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Staffing and Resource Allocation
Retail calendars also encompass staffing and resource allocation. Thanksgiving and Black Friday necessitate increased staffing levels to manage customer traffic and provide adequate service. Retailers adjust employee schedules, hire temporary staff, and allocate resources to high-demand areas within stores. The specific date, November 28th, determined the precise timing of these staffing adjustments and resource deployments.
The significance of November 28th, 2019, extends beyond its designation as Thanksgiving Day. It functions as a critical determinant in the construction and execution of retail calendars, influencing promotional strategies, inventory management, and staffing decisions. The retail sector’s adherence to the Thanksgiving date highlights the economic and cultural impact of this national holiday. The precision of the retail planning cycle reveals the intricate relationship between a calendar date and commercial activities.
Frequently Asked Questions
The following section addresses common queries regarding the date of Thanksgiving in 2019, aiming to provide definitive answers and clarify any misconceptions.
Question 1: Why is it important to know the exact date of Thanksgiving 2019?
Determining the specific date is crucial for historical record-keeping, logistical planning, and economic analysis. The date informs research, travel arrangements, retail strategies, and societal calendars.
Question 2: How is the date of Thanksgiving determined each year?
Thanksgiving is consistently observed on the fourth Thursday of November. This established rule ensures a predictable, albeit non-fixed, date for the annual celebration.
Question 3: What specific factors made November 28th the designated Thanksgiving date in 2019?
November 1st, 2019, fell on a Friday. Consequently, counting forward, the fourth Thursday of that month occurred on November 28th, thus establishing the holiday’s date.
Question 4: Does the date of Thanksgiving impact economic activity in the United States?
The Thanksgiving date significantly influences retail activity, triggering the holiday shopping season. “Black Friday,” immediately following Thanksgiving, exemplifies this impact, driving consumer spending and shaping retail calendars.
Question 5: Is Thanksgiving celebrated on the same date globally?
Thanksgiving, as observed on the fourth Thursday of November, is primarily a United States holiday. Other countries may have their own Thanksgiving observances, but they occur on different dates and with different traditions.
Question 6: How does knowing the date of Thanksgiving contribute to historical understanding?
Knowing the precise date of Thanksgiving allows for the correlation of events and activities occurring around that time. It aids in examining social trends, economic indicators, and cultural shifts within a specific historical context.
In summary, accurately establishing the date of Thanksgiving is essential for various purposes, ranging from logistical coordination to historical analysis. The standardized method of determining the date contributes to predictability and facilitates informed planning across diverse sectors.
This concludes the frequently asked questions regarding the date of Thanksgiving 2019. The following section will explore related historical aspects.
Tips for Remembering and Utilizing “What Day Was Thanksgiving 2019”
Accurately recalling and utilizing the date of Thanksgiving 2019, November 28th, has practical applications ranging from historical research to comparative analysis. The following tips provide methods for retaining and applying this information.
Tip 1: Anchor the Date with Related Events: Associate November 28th, 2019, with significant events that occurred around that time. Consider major news stories, cultural phenomena, or personal experiences to create a memorable anchor. This contextual association enhances recall.
Tip 2: Utilize Calendar Reminders and Annotations: Mark November 28th, 2019, on physical or digital calendars with specific annotations. Notes regarding the significance of the date, its relation to Thanksgiving, and related observations reinforce memory and provide quick reference.
Tip 3: Incorporate the Date into Historical Timelines: Place November 28th, 2019, within a broader historical timeline. Charting the date alongside other significant events from the year provides a comparative framework and enhances comprehension of its relative importance.
Tip 4: Leverage Digital Note-Taking Systems: Employ digital note-taking applications to create a dedicated entry for November 28th, 2019. Include relevant details, links to related resources, and personal reflections. This centralized repository facilitates access and reinforces retention.
Tip 5: Connect with Family History: Research how Thanksgiving was celebrated within one’s own family in 2019. Gathering anecdotes, photos, or family recipes associated with that particular Thanksgiving creates a personal connection and aids in recall.
Tip 6: Integrate the Date into Research and Writing: Actively incorporate November 28th, 2019, into research papers, articles, or presentations that relate to the holiday, the year, or associated topics. Active utilization strengthens comprehension and retention.
Tip 7: Regularly Review and Test Recall: Periodically revisit the date and its significance. Utilize flashcards, quizzes, or self-testing exercises to assess recall and reinforce memory over time.
Consistently applying these techniques enhances one’s ability to accurately recall and effectively utilize the date of Thanksgiving 2019. Active engagement with the information facilitates its long-term retention and promotes a deeper understanding of its context.
The following section will provide a conclusion to the information covered in the article.
Conclusion
This examination has definitively established November 28th as the date of Thanksgiving in 2019. The analysis extended beyond the mere identification of the date to encompass its profound influence on travel patterns, retail calendars, and the organization of family gatherings. The established tradition of celebrating Thanksgiving on the fourth Thursday of November serves as a critical framework for planning and economic activity within the United States.
The significance of November 28th, 2019, lies not only in its historical designation but also in its continuing impact on societal structures and individual behaviors. Recognizing the importance of fixed points within the calendar allows for a more comprehensive understanding of how traditions shape our world. Consider the ripple effects initiated by a single date and its power to influence the human experience.
