103 saved#2,173 of 6,224

Great American Smokeout

Be smoke-free this Great American Smokeout - join millions of others and make a commitment to creating a healthier, smoke-free lifestyle!

Thursday

November 2026

Last updated February 7, 2026 · by the Holiday Calendar Team

Have an update or spot an error?

YEARLY DATEThird Thursday in November

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYAwareness

SUBCATEGORYPublic Health

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

It's time to join the fight against smoking and show your support for a healthier lifestyle on the Great American Smokeout, which takes place on the third Thursday of November. This event has been around since the 1970s and is an annual reminder to smokers to quit and seek help if needed. Since then, it has grown into a nationwide initiative that encourages everyone – not just smokers – to lead healthier lives. So take this opportunity to make a change in your life and kick your bad habit once and for all!

TIMELINE

Great American Smokeout Timeline

First Smokeout Event

The first smokeout event took place in Randolph, Massachusetts, organised by Edward Pritchard.

First Statewide Event

Minnesota hosted the first statewide Smokeout event with the help of the American Cancer Society.

Nationwide Recognition

The American Cancer Society pushed the Smokeout event to a nationwide level, advocating the benefits of stopping smoking.

Increasing Support

With increasing public participation and support from various institutions, this community-led movement achieves significant milestones in tobacco control.

Virtual Celebrations

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, many events and resources moved online, further expanding the reach and impact of the Great American Smokeout.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Great American Smokeout

Set a quit date

Decide when you want to quit and make it official. Write it down, tell your friends and family, and commit to it.

FIND

Find support

Talk to your doctor about quitting and ask for help from family and friends. Make an appointment with a quit coach, or join a support group.

PREPARE

Prepare for cravings

Find healthy snacks to help with cravings, like carrots, celery, nuts, or gum. Keep your hands busy with activities like knitting or playing video games.

REWARD

Reward yourself

Set small rewards for yourself when you reach certain milestones. This could be a massage, a night out with friends, or any other treat that will motivate you.

CELEBRATE

Celebrate success

Give yourself a big pat on the back when you reach your end goal. Celebrate with friends and family, and make sure to keep up the progress.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love Great American Smokeout

It brings hope for a healthier future

Smoking is still one of the most preventable causes of death in the US, and every choosing to abstain from tobacco during the Smokeout is another step closer to a smoke-free future. As more people choose to celebrate this day by kicking their habit, we move ever closer towards achieving better health for everyone!

It promotes a healthy lifestyle

The Great American Smokeout encourages smokers to quit smoking and adopt healthier habits. It also brings attention to the dangerous health risks associated with smoking, such as lung cancer, heart disease, and stroke. By celebrating the Smokeout, we can spread awareness and help people make positive changes in their lives.

It unites the community

The Great American Smokeout is a nationwide event that unites people of all backgrounds in celebration of a common goal - quitting smoking. Events are held across the country, often incorporating local health organizations, educational resources, and an abundance of support from family and friends!

Related holidays

WED

Mar 2026

Awareness

National No Smoking Day

An awareness observance on the second Wednesday in March encouraging smokers to quit and raising awareness about the health risks of tobacco use.

Cigarettes are Hazardous to Your Health Day

Don't let cigarettes ruin your health! Join in on Cigarettes are Hazardous to Your Health Day and make a positive change towards a healthier lifestyle.

World No Tobacco Day

Say goodbye to tobacco for good! Join the global community in celebrating World No Tobacco Day and make a commitment to leading a healthier lifestyle.

91Read

THU

Apr 2026