Whether you’ve taken on the Herculean task of hosting this year’s Thanksgiving dinner or you’re just showing up for the pumpkin pie, there is a certain amount of preparation involved. From hostess gifts and side dishes to color schemes and napkin rings, we’ve gathered up this year’s hottest Thanksgiving trends that will help make your celebration an affair to remember.
“You can’t have Thanksgiving without turkey. That’s like the Fourth of July without apple pie or Friday with no two pizzas.” —Joey Tribbiani (“Friends”)
Let’s Talk Turkey
The turkey experts at Butterball have spoken! Check out what they have to say about this year’s Thanksgiving gathering trends in their Togetherness Report: 2025 Thanksgiving Outlook.
89% of consumers plan on celebrating Thanksgiving this year.
9 – The average number of people expected to be at a Thanksgiving meal.
58% of consumers will not make changes to Thanksgiving this year to try to save money.
84% of hosts will celebrate with turkey.
47% of consumer’s favorite part of the Thanksgiving meal is the turkey.
72% of hosts plan on oven roasting their turkey.
21% of hosts are intimidated about cooking the turkey.
Colors, Patterns and Special Elements
As you begin daydreaming about tablescapes (check out our tablescape how-to) and decor, consider this year’s color and styling trends coming straight from artistic directors, designers and lifestyle brands.
Color Palettes
This year color palettes will move beyond traditional fall colors towards an unexpected palette of deep blues, warm oranges, and deep cranberry reds. Warm neutrals will continue to dominate Fall and Thanksgiving decor such as earth tones (beige, taupe, warm browns) that lend an inviting and calming atmosphere while bringing a touch of elegance and timelessness. Earthy greens and rustic fall colors will ground and complement this year’s vibrant, dominant colors.
*Source: WildApple.com
Themes
This year’s Thanksgiving themes will lean into a mix of cherished traditions and harvest themes blended with a modern aesthetic bringing a fresh twist to our favorite traditions. Central themes will include autumn leaves and folk patterns. These design elements honor our country’s cultural heritage and craftsmanship and tell a deeper story steeped in American history. The timeless appeal of these patterns allow them to blend seamlessly with the rich tapestry of trending colors.
*Source: WildApple.com
Special Elements
We are seeing a rebound in the size of gatherings after a drastic decline during the pandemic. These larger gatherings prove that Thanksgiving is seen as a time to connect with friends and family. This year will see a special emphasis on cozy, nostalgic elements that soothe and comfort guests like candlelit tables, gratitude boards, and nostalgic decor. At this year’s table, try incorporating candles of differing sizes, string lights, folk art patterns, or layered textiles in rustic Fall hues.
*Source: WildApple.com
Food Trends
Every year, there’s always a new “twist” on the turkey or an exciting new side dish giving main dish energy. This year is no different. We will see gourmet twists on classic dishes like this spiced pear tarte tatin from Williams Sonoma. Edible centerpieces will take center stage like beautiful vegetable bouquets that can double as a great hostess gifts. The demand for vegan and plant-based food options is on the rise and will be a necessary component to your Thanksgiving menu. Check out these tasty vegan recipes from Whole Foods Market!
*Source: WildApple.com
