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Turkey-free Thanksgiving

Make your Thanksgiving special this year with a delicious turkey-free feast - try out tasty vegan and vegetarian recipes!

Thursday

November 2026

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

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YEARLY DATEFourth Thursday in November

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYFood

SUBCATEGORYDining

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

It's time to join the movement and celebrate a Turkey-free Thanksgiving on the Fourth Thursday in November! This special day was started by animal rights activists and vegetarians who wanted to raise awareness about the cruelty associated with factory farming and the consumption of animals for food. With more people becoming aware of these issues, it has become easier to find alternative protein sources, such as tofu, tempeh, seitan, and even vegan turkey roasts. So why not give them a try this Thanksgiving and show your support for a more humane world?

TIMELINE

Turkey-free Thanksgiving Timeline

Farm Animal Rights Movement Founded

The Farm Animal Rights Movement (FARM) was founded, advocating for animal rights and promoting vegetarianism.

World Day for Farmed Animals Established

World Day for Farmed Animals took off globally, urging people to go meat-free for a day to highlight the mistreatment of farm animals.

Tofurky Hits the Market

Tofurky, a popular meat substitute, is introduced to the market providing a delicious alternative for holiday meals.

Celebrity Support to Turkey-free Thanksgiving

Well-known celebrities including Paul McCartney, Ellen DeGeneres, and Oprah start promoting cruelty-free and vegetarian diets.

Emergence of Vegan Roasts

Various brands start producing vegan turkey roasts, making the transition to turkey-free Thanksgiving easier and tastier for many.

Rise in Veganism

Reports show an increase in the number of people adopting vegan diets, helping to drive the popularity of Turkey-free Thanksgiving.

GET INVOLVED

How to Celebrate Turkey-free Thanksgiving

Plan a potluck

Invite friends and family over for a potluck feast. Encourage everyone to bring their favorite vegan dishes and desserts. Everyone will love the variety and you’ll get to try out new recipes.

TRY

Try a vegan buffet

Many restaurants have vegan buffets on Thanksgiving. Make reservations and try out some delicious vegan dishes without having to do the cooking yourself.

ORGANIZE

Organize a volunteer event

Volunteer at a local food bank or animal shelter on Thanksgiving Day. It's an amazing way to give back to the community and make sure that everyone has access to food and companionship.

Go out for dinner

There are many restaurants that offer vegan dishes on Thanksgiving. Look up vegan restaurants in your area and book a reservation for a delicious vegan meal with your family.

HAVE

Have a movie night

Put together a few trays of vegan snacks, pop some popcorn and rent some movies. Have everyone bring their favorite movie and spend the night relaxing in front of the TV.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love Turkey-free Thanksgiving

Opens up creative possibilities

When you forgo the turkey for Thanksgiving dinner, it opens up a world of possibilities for interesting and delicious dishes. Vegetarian feasts are full of unique flavors and textures, from roasted root vegetables to quinoa stuffing to cranberry sauce. Plus, they often take less time to prepare than their meaty counterparts!

It is healthier

Turkey-free Thanksgiving gives an opportunity to enjoy a healthier meal, as opposed to one centered around fatty meats like turkey. This can help cut down on animal fats and cholesterol consumption, potentially leading to improved heart health and a longer life.

Cuts down on waste

By skipping the traditional poultry dish, you're reducing your carbon footprint by eliminating the need to purchase and cook a large bird. In addition, you won't be left with a ton of leftovers that will end up in the trash once you've finished eating.