1. Thanksgiving Date Calculation

Thanksgiving in the United States, including California, is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November each year. This was formally established by federal law in 1941.

2. Historical Background

President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed a national Thanksgiving Day to be celebrated on the final Thursday in November in 1863. The date varied between the last and fourth Thursday until Congress fixed it in 1941.

3. California Specifics

Details: California follows the same Thanksgiving date as the rest of the United States. The holiday typically marks the beginning of the holiday season in California, with many businesses closing for the day.

4. Using the Calculator

Tips: Simply enter any year between 1900 and 2100 to calculate the exact date of Thanksgiving for that year in California.

5. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: Why is Thanksgiving on Thursday?
A: The Thursday tradition dates back to early colonial times and was formalized by presidential proclamations.

Q2: Has the date ever changed?
A: Yes, between 1863-1941 it sometimes fell on the fifth Thursday when November had five Thursdays.

Q3: Do all states celebrate on the same day?
A: Yes, since 1941 all states observe the federal holiday on the same date.

Q4: Are there special traditions in California?
A: Many Californians incorporate local produce into meals, and some cities hold parades or turkey trots.

Q5: What's the earliest and latest possible date?
A: November 22 (if November 1 is Thursday) to November 28 (if November 1 is Friday).