How to get a free (or cheap) Turkey on Thanksgiving 2024?

Thanksgiving is the cornerstone of American holidays, and there's no two ways about it: a Turkey is a must. However, not every family can afford it, given that it can be especially pricey. Despite what the USDA says (frozen whole Turkeys are now 96 cents per pound on average), that shouldn't prevent you from trying to get a bang for your buck.

Luckily, there are organizations nationwide that are handing out free turkeys this Thanksgiving, if your family qualifies for it. Moreover, there are also coupons, points, and discounts that help in getting a free turkey or will at least axe the price down significantly. With Thanksgiving just around the corner, here's the last-minute list you need to help you out with your quest.

How to avail of a free turkey this Thanksgiving?

One of the easiest ways about it is to simply google "free turkey near me," and you might just get lucky. Or, you can check if you fall under the following categories to qualify for the free bird this Thanksgiving:

Eligibility based on income: It may vary, but organizations provide free food only to households that fall below the predetermined income threshold.
Verification of need: Various organizations may also mandate the presentation of a valid proof of need, and these may include pay stubs, tax returns, or proof of government assistance.
Consideration of special circumstances: There may be some organizations in your area that take into consideration the unforeseen difficulties you may be facing, and so, they can grant you dispensation.

List of outlets that are giving away freebies this Thanksgiving

When all of these options are exhausted, you can check out the following list as your best bet at finding a free Turkey this Thanksgiving.

1) Acme Markets

Acme Markets is giving away free turkeys to anyone who can present the free turkey coupon listed on the official website. There is a catch, however: those interested will have to shop for over $300 or more till November 28 to avail of this handaway. And, more importantly, it is only available in the Northeast and Mid-Atlantic states chain.

2) BJ’s Wholesale Club

BJ’s Wholesale Club is giving its members the chance to get their hands on a free Butterball Turkey, worth about $25 when they make purchases worth $150 in one go. This needs to be done November 1 to November 14, 2024. Those who do so will be given a coupon for a FREE turkey, either online or on the app, and this can be handed in between November 16 and 27.

3) Foodtown

All Foodtown outlets located in the Northeast are allowing customers to grab a free turkey that weighs anywhere between 10 to 20 pounds. However, this can only be done by making purchases with their Club Card, and with a minimum purchase of $400 before Thanksgiving rolls around. Notably, instead of a whole turkey, customers can also opt for the ham, a turkey breast, a family-size Stouffer’s frozen lasagna, or a $10 Foodtown gift card.

4) Butcher Box

Hear one, here all! Butcher Box is handing out a free bird, one that weighs between 10 to 14 lbs, and clocks in at around $39, for free, no strings attached. However, it is important to keep in mind that this offer only applies to first-time users.

5) Giant

If you have 400 Giant Choice Reward points lying around, now's your time to shine. You can get your hands on a free turkey that weighs up to 20 lbs if you trade it in before November 28. Alternatively, you can also opt for Stouffer’s family-size lasagna or a free tofurky roast. The offer begins November 15, and notably, in case you're not big on Turkeys, you can choose to donate it to a local food bank.

6) Hy-Vee

With every purchase of a Hormel Cure 81 ham or a Honeysuckle turkey made, customers will be given one 10 to 15-pound Honeysuckle turkey for free.

7) Randalls

Between November 6 and 12, all Randalls For U members will get a free Signature Farms frozen turkey, that clocks in at up to 12 lbs, with a minimum purchase of $75. However, it is important to note that this offer is only available online, and should be added to your account in advance.