As students and families planned their Thanksgiving shopping, there was some good news to be thankful for. 

According to the American Farm Bureau Federation, the cost of an old-fashioned Thanksgiving dinner has decreased by about $5.52 per person, making it 5% less than 2024.

Turkey is the reason we see this decline. It’s now averaging at $1.34 per pound, which is down by over 16% from last year.

“A lot of stores I’ve seen actually have some really good deals, that’s one reason to be thankful,” said senior Shaunie Loggins. 

Although turkey is cheaper, side dishes like sweet potatoes and other vegetables are slightly up. The Bureau of Labor Statistics found that grocery inflation in the “food at home” category is up 2.2%. 

Because the holidays can be a rough time, you can help out by donating to families in need. Memorial Road Church of Christ handed out a traditional Thanksgiving meal box for families on Wednesday, Nov. 26 with homemade pies, turkey and more. They also have Christmas projects to provide gifts for children in economically suppressed areas. 

Additionally UCO hosted an Edmond community Thanksgiving dinner, where anyone could attend to enjoy a meal and make new friends. They have a similar event open to students and members of the Edmond community for the winter holidays called “Winter Glow”. 

“I love volunteering around the holidays because it’s supposed to be the happiest time of the year, and I want to make someone’s day,” said senior Naudia Oulliber. 

No matter what this holiday season brings, there is always something to be thankful for.