Hold onto your hats, because Thanksgiving is no longer just an American tradition—it’s becoming a full-blown British obsession. But here’s where it gets controversial: Is this a genuine cultural shift, or simply a culinary craze? Let’s dive in.
Younger generations in the U.K. are leading the charge, turning this quintessentially American holiday into a British phenomenon. According to Mintel research, a staggering 42% of Gen Z and millennials in the U.K. have already attended a Thanksgiving meal, and 16% plan to host or join one for the first time this November. Even more eye-opening? Over half believe American-style celebrations like Thanksgiving and Halloween are becoming permanent fixtures on the British calendar. And this is the part most people miss: It’s not just about adopting a new holiday—it’s about embracing a new way of experiencing food.
Trish Caddy, associate director of food service research at Mintel, explains, ‘U.K. interest in Thanksgiving reflects a growing appetite for American flavors, but it’s less about cultural adoption and more about culinary celebration.’ This trend ties into the broader movement of ‘experience-driven eating,’ where people crave themed menus, social connections, and limited-edition treats.
Take Pipers Farm in Devon, for example. Last year, their turkey and Thanksgiving-related product sales soared by 38% in the two weeks leading up to the holiday, and demand shows no signs of slowing. They’ve even expanded their offerings with more sides and turkey sizes to meet what’s expected to be another record-breaking year.
Online grocer Ocado is witnessing a similar boom. Searches for ‘Thanksgiving’ have skyrocketed by 440% year-over-year, while ‘pumpkin spice’ has seen a jaw-dropping 550% increase. Even U.S. snack brands are thriving, with Herr’s Buffalo Blue Cheese Curls up 410% and Newman’s Own Ranch Dressing sales more than doubling. Bold question: Are Britons simply indulging in a food fad, or is this the start of a deeper cultural exchange?
British grocery data from Brit Brief adds fuel to the fire, showing sweet potato sales spiked by 45% last November, and canned pumpkin sales jumped 60% year-over-year. Restaurants are jumping on the bandwagon too. At CUT at 45 Park Lane in London, chef Elliott Grover has expanded their Thanksgiving service to accommodate over 180 diners, while Bar 45 offers themed bites all week, from turkey croquettes to pecan pie and bacon-wrapped dates.
This Thanksgiving frenzy fits into a larger trend Innova Market Insights calls ‘Local Goes Global’—a growing curiosity about international flavors. Their data reveals that products inspired by American cuisine are up 8% across the U.K., as consumers seek bold, recognizable tastes with a hint of the exotic. Controversial interpretation: Could this be a subtle form of cultural appropriation, or a harmless celebration of global cuisine?
A 2025 U.K. food-and-drinks sector report from Tokio Marine HCC supports this shift, noting that despite inflation, ‘novelty and themed experiences’ remain a key driver in food and hospitality. So, while budgets may be tight, Britons are still willing to splurge on unique culinary adventures.
Thought-provoking question for you: Is the U.K.’s embrace of Thanksgiving a passing trend, or the beginning of a lasting cultural blend? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below!
