Thanksgiving has evolved into a holiday rich with diverse traditions across different cultures, yet certain foods remain central to the celebration. For many families, staples like turkey, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie symbolize the day. Advertisers have played a significant role in shaping this meal. Initially, turkey competed with other meats but by the 1920s, it became the dominant choice, largely due to marketing efforts that highlighted preparation techniques and positioned it as the centerpiece of the holiday feast. Brands like Eatmor and Ocean Spray helped popularize cranberry sauce, creating a perception that it was a traditional accompaniment to turkey, despite its relatively recent adoption. Similarly, pumpkin pie, often seen as a quintessential dessert, was not part of the original Thanksgiving. Brands like Libby’s and Borden’s have spent decades linking pumpkin pie to the holiday, ensuring its place on the table. While some products failed to gain traction, such as Welch’s grape juice and Diamond walnuts, turkey remains a staple, with nearly 88% of U.S. households serving it on Thanksgiving. The influence of marketing extends beyond just creating traditions; it also reflects consumer choices. The success of Thanksgiving marketing shows how advertisers have not only helped define the meal but also reinforced the cultural significance of family and gratitude. As families gather to celebrate, they contribute to the ongoing evolution of Thanksgiving traditions, shaped by both personal preferences and the marketing narratives that have become ingrained in the holiday.