Target’s $20 Thanksgiving Meal Deal Draws Shoppers Seeking Affordability and Tradition

In time for the holiday season, Target has introduced its most affordable Thanksgiving meal yet, offering families a full spread for just $20—$5 less than last year. With rising food costs impacting families nationwide, Target’s holiday meal deal, which feeds four people, combines traditional dishes at a price that’s attracting budget-conscious consumers. Target hopes to set itself apart as a go-to for holiday essentials by appealing to both affordability and quality, at a time when other major retailers are making similar efforts to ease holiday costs.

A Thanksgiving Feast for Four at a New Low Price
Target’s Thanksgiving meal bundle includes all the classic favorites: a frozen turkey (up to 10 pounds), russet potatoes, canned green beans, cream of mushroom soup, jarred gravy, and boxed stuffing—all under its Good & Gather label. The $20 price means shoppers can host Thanksgiving dinner for just $5 per person, with an option to double the bundle for a gathering of eight. According to Rick Gomez, Target’s chief commercial officer, the move reflects Target’s commitment to making holiday gatherings accessible to everyone.

“Our goal is to make Thanksgiving a celebration that everyone can afford,” Gomez said. “By reducing the price of our Thanksgiving meal to $20, we’re not only supporting family traditions but also providing exceptional value during a time of year when budgets are stretched.”

Rising Competition for Affordable Holiday Offerings
Target’s holiday deal is part of a broader trend among retailers such as Aldi, Walmart, and Sam’s Club, who have all introduced low-cost Thanksgiving options to meet the demands of inflation-weary shoppers. For instance, Aldi recently announced its lowest-priced Thanksgiving meal in five years, and Sam’s Club now offers a fully-cooked Thanksgiving meal for up to 10 people under $100. This price competition reflects a noticeable shift as shoppers increasingly prioritize affordability, often opting for private-label products over brand names.

The cost-cutting comes as food inflation begins to moderate, with grocery prices rising at just 1.3% annually, per recent Consumer Price Index data. According to Dr. Michael Swanson of Wells Fargo’s Agri-Food Institute, this year’s competitive pricing illustrates retailers’ recognition that consumers are carefully balancing quality with cost: “With inflation cooling, retailers are offering more deals to draw shoppers in, hoping they’ll add a few extra items to their cart.”

Additional Holiday Options and Loyalty Deals
In addition to the Thanksgiving meal deal, Target offers seasonal options like Good & Gather’s Cheddar Mac, Cranberry Goat Cheese Log, and traditional desserts for around $5. Its Good & Gather turkeys are now priced at just 79 cents per pound, 20% lower than last year, reflecting broader trends in falling meat prices since the pandemic’s peak.

For those looking to prepare meals beyond Thanksgiving, Target is extending deals to its loyalty program members. Between November 13-16, Target Circle 360 members will receive a free frozen pizza with same-day delivery, making Thanksgiving eve dinners simpler for busy households.

Affordability in Focus for Holiday Shoppers
With a cautious outlook for the remainder of the year, Target is anticipating that consumers will continue to seek affordable options. Target’s private-label products, which generate $30 billion in annual sales, have become a central strategy for providing value amid economic uncertainty.

While budgets may be tight, Gomez emphasized that customers remain committed to celebrating holiday traditions. “Our customers prioritize the holiday moments that bring them together,” he said, “and we’re committed to making those moments affordable.” Target’s $20 meal deal serves as a prime example of the company’s focus on bringing value and tradition to the holiday table, all while supporting families navigating today’s economic landscape.