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Turkey Lovers Month

Calling all turkey lovers! November is Turkey Lovers Month and we have the perfect recipes, tips, and tricks to make your Thanksgiving feast extra delicious. Gobble gobble!

Monday

1–30

June 2026

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

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YEARLY DATEAll of June

OBSERVED INUnited States

CATEGORYFood

SUBCATEGORYMeat

INTRO

Introduction

PHOTO

June is here and it's time to celebrate Turkey Lovers Month! Did you know that turkeys have been a part of American history since the early 1500s? These birds were originally domesticated by Native Americans and have become a staple in many holiday meals. But turkey isn't just reserved for Thanksgiving – there are so many delicious ways to enjoy this versatile protein all month long. So let's give thanks for these feathered friends and explore some tasty recipes to satisfy our love for turkey!

TIMELINE

Turkey Lovers Month Timeline

Turkeys Introduced to Europe

Turkeys were first domesticated by the indigenous peoples of Mexico and Central America. Spanish colonizers brought turkeys back to Europe from the Americas in the early 1500s.

First Thanksgiving

While it's unclear whether turkey was served at the first Thanksgiving in 1621, the bird became a common centerpiece at later Thanksgiving feasts in the United States.

Thanksgiving Established Nationally

President Abraham Lincoln declared Thanksgiving a national holiday in 1863, solidifying turkey's importance in American holiday traditions.

First Presidential Turkey Pardon

The tradition of the U.S. President pardoning a turkey started in 1947 with President Harry Truman, adding to the cultural prominence of the turkey in American festivities.

Turkey Lovers Month Establishment

Turkey Lovers Month was established by the National Turkey Federation in 1989 to encourage the consumption of turkey throughout the year, not just at Thanksgiving.

Beyond Thanksgiving: Turkey Recipes Evolve

Throughout the early 21st century, the versatility of turkey has been celebrated with recipes for every season, making it a staple protein source in American diets beyond traditional holiday dishes.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

How to Celebrate Turkey Lovers Month

Have a Turkey movie marathon

Gather some friends or family and have a movie night featuring films with turkeys as main characters or themes. Some options could include "A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving," "Free Birds," or "Paul Blart: Mall Cop," which famously features a turkey as a sidekick.

Host a Turkey-themed potluck

Invite friends and family over for a potluck where everyone has to bring a dish that incorporates turkey in some way. From turkey sandwiches to turkey chili, get creative and have fun trying different dishes.

Go on a Turkey Hunt

Organize a scavenger hunt with a turkey theme. Hide small plastic or stuffed turkeys around the house or neighborhood and give clues to help participants find them. The winner can receive a prize, such as a gift card to their favorite turkey restaurant.

Try a new Turkey recipe each week

Challenge yourself to try a new turkey recipe every week during Turkey Lovers Month. This could be anything from a classic Thanksgiving roast turkey to more unique dishes like turkey burgers or turkey lasagna. Get adventurous and expand your palette.

Attend a Turkey festival

Do some research and see if there are any Turkey festivals happening in your area during the month. If so, gather some friends and go check it out! You can sample different turkey dishes, learn about the history of turkey, and participate in fun activities.

WHY THIS DAY MATTERS

Why We Love Turkey Lovers Month

It brings people together

Turkey is often associated with coming together for special occasions like Thanksgiving and Christmas. But why limit this delicious meat to just a few holidays? Celebrate Turkey Lovers Month by gathering your loved ones and enjoying some delicious turkey dishes together!

Turkey is a lean and healthy protein source

Turkey is packed with essential nutrients like protein, iron, and B vitamins. It's also lower in fat and calories compared to other meats, making it a great choice for those looking to maintain a healthy diet.

There are endless ways to enjoy turkey

From traditional Thanksgiving feasts to sandwiches, soups, and salads, there are countless ways to enjoy turkey. You can get creative with leftovers or try new recipes that use turkey as the main ingredient - the possibilities are endless!

Related holidays

SUN

Jun 2026

Food

Turkey Lovers’ Day

Gobble up the savings on Turkey Lovers' Day! Enjoy delicious deals and discounts perfect for celebrating your love of turkey.

Thanksgiving

Gather around the table and give thanks this Thanksgiving - indulge in delicious food, quality time with loved ones and make memories to last a lifetime!

Turkey-free Thanksgiving

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

Adopt a Turkey Month

Join the movement and make a difference this November by adopting a turkey instead of eating one.

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