The cost of food is higher than it has been in a while, so in an attempt to make the yearly Thanksgiving celebration as plentiful (and delectable) as possible, we will be searching for the best deals on turkey.
The holidays are approaching, and with them comes the annual tradition of Thanksgiving dinner. The centerpiece of this feast is undoubtedly the turkey, and savvy shoppers are always looking for the best deals on this essential ingredient But when does turkey go on sale, and how can you ensure you snag the best price?
Navigating the Turkey Market: Fresh vs. Frozen
The first step in finding the perfect Thanksgiving turkey is deciding whether you want a fresh or frozen bird. Fresh turkeys are typically more expensive, but they also tend to be more flavorful and juicy. Frozen turkeys, on the other hand, are more affordable and can be stored for longer periods.
Frozen turkeys:
- Availability: Frozen turkeys are readily available throughout the year, making them a convenient option for early shoppers.
- Price: Frozen turkeys are generally cheaper than fresh turkeys, especially when purchased on sale.
- Storage: Frozen turkeys can be stored in your freezer for several months, giving you plenty of flexibility.
- Thawing: Remember to thaw your frozen turkey in the refrigerator for several days before cooking.
Fresh turkeys:
- Availability: Fresh turkeys are typically available in stores closer to Thanksgiving.
- Price: Fresh turkeys are usually more expensive than frozen turkeys.
- Storage: Fresh turkeys should be cooked within a few days of purchase.
- Flavor: Fresh turkeys are often considered to be more flavorful than frozen turkeys.
Timing is Everything: When to Buy Your Thanksgiving Turkey
Frozen turkeys:
- Early November: This is the time when most stores start stocking frozen turkeys. You’ll likely find good deals during this period, especially if you buy in bulk.
- Late November: As Thanksgiving approaches, the prices of frozen turkeys may start to increase. However, you can still find good deals if you shop around.
Fresh turkeys:
- One week before Thanksgiving: This is the optimal time to buy a fresh turkey. Stores will have a good selection, and the prices will be at their peak.
- Thanksgiving week: If you wait until Thanksgiving week to buy your fresh turkey, you may find limited selection and higher prices.
Additional Tips for Savvy Shoppers
- Compare prices: Don’t just buy the first turkey you see. Compare prices at different stores to find the best deal.
- Look for sales: Many stores offer discounts on turkeys in the weeks leading up to Thanksgiving. Keep an eye out for flyers and online deals.
- Consider buying in bulk: If you have the freezer space, buying a larger turkey can save you money per pound.
- Don’t forget the sides: While the turkey is the star of the show, don’t forget to factor in the cost of other Thanksgiving essentials like stuffing, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie.
By understanding the different types of turkeys and the best times to buy them, you can ensure you get the best possible price for your Thanksgiving feast. Whether you prefer the convenience of a frozen turkey or the flavor of a fresh one, planning ahead and shopping strategically will help you save money and enjoy a delicious Thanksgiving dinner. So, grab your shopping list, keep an eye on those sale flyers, and get ready to gobble up some great deals!
How to get the best turkey price this Thanksgiving
November is the best time of year to buy turkey on sale. Whole, frozen turkeys should be readily available for less than $1 per pound, and some supermarkets will even give you a FREE turkey if you spend over a certain amount of money or if you purchase your Christmas ham along with it.
If you don’t need a whole turkey, you can shop for a turkey breast instead. Just note that you won’t get the cheapest price per pound of turkey. Purchasing the entire bird and storing it for future use could prove to be a more cost-effective option in the long run.
The general rule of thumb is one pound of turkey per person, but if you have heavy eaters in your family or want leftovers (and who doesn’t?), allow one pound per person. 5 pounds per person.
Given the low cost of turkeys at many grocery stores, if you have freezer space, think about purchasing a second one. You might need to make two trips since the cheapest turkeys often have purchase limits.
Nevertheless, a lot of grocery stores will offer turkeys as a “loss leader” in the hopes that you’ll make additional purchases while you’re there. In fact, some stores will only let you pay their lowest price per pound for turkey if you make additional purchases of $20 to $50 or more.
Make sure you’re not overspending on the extra items you bought because it might be less expensive to buy the turkey at full price. Here are some more of our tips on how to maximize your savings while shopping for Thanksgiving dinner.
And while the turkey will undoubtedly be the most expensive item on the menu this year, keep in mind that you can cut costs on Thanksgiving dinner by utilizing some of these fantastic frugal suggestions.
Free turkeys for Thanksgiving
Certain grocery chains offer free turkey promotions leading up to Thanksgiving. These are usually focused on customers who are part of the supermarket’s bargain shoppers club and are determined by the total amount of purchases made in October and November.
Price Plus members can earn points toward a FREE turkey or other item — from Oct. 15 to Nov. 23, 2023. The number of required points varies by location.
You must use the same Price Plus card each time you shop at any ShopRite. No register tapes to save or cards to punch each week. The accumulation happens automatically with your Price Plus card.
Spend $400 and qualify for ONE of the following:
ShopRite or Bowl & Basket All-Natural Frozen Turkey (any size up to 21-lbs.)
Save $1.99 per pound on any other fresh or frozen turkey brand (up to 21-lbs).
Save $1.99 per pound on Empire or Kosher Turkey brand (up to 21-lbs.)
Cooks Butt or Shank ½ Smoked Ham
Save $2. 39 per pound for any Boneless Ham, Cook’s Spiral Sliced Ham, or other Smoked Ham (up to 12 lbs.) avg. ).
Save $7.17 on John F Martin Boneless Ham
Save $3.29 per pound on any other fresh or frozen Turkey Breast or Empire Kosher Turkey Breast
Empire or Kosher Frozen Roasting Chicken (up to 8-lbs. avg.)
Stouffer’s Frozen Lasagna any variety (90- to 96-oz.)
Gardein Plant-Based Roast frozen (35.2-oz.)
Tofurky frozen (56-oz.)
Marie Callender’s Sides (13-oz.)
Fresh Whole Picnic (pork picnic, 12-lb. avg.)
Save $1.89 per pound on any other Bone-in Smoked Pork Picnic
GIANT Choice Pass members can earn a FREE turkey — from Nov. 1 to 23, 2023.
Earn CHOICE points when you shop. Earning points quickly is simple: use your GIANT card whenever you shop, keep an eye out for weekly bonuses, and check the offers in the app for your customized “earn points.”
All offers can be redeemed in-store or online.
Once you reach 400 points, claim your FREE reward from one of the following:
FREE frozen Grade A Shady Brook Farms Turkey (up to 20-lbs.)
Stouffer’s Party-Size Entrée
Tofurkey Roast
$1 off per pound on other premium turkeys (up to 20-lbs.)
See complete details at giantfoodstores.com/pages/free-turkey-earn.
Safeway is offering a FREE any size Honeysuckle White Turkey with a minimum grocery purchase of $150. (The cost of the turkey does not count toward the minimum purchase requirement. ) The giveaway is typically offered weekly in November, leading up to Thanksgiving Day.
NEW UNAFFORDABLE COST OF LIVING IN TURKEY AND ANTALYA 2024
FAQ
What is the best day to buy turkey?
Are turkeys cheaper before or after Thanksgiving?
What grocery store has the best price on turkeys?
What is a good price for turkey per pound?