A turkey is often the centerpiece of any holiday family meal and it goes beyond Thanksgiving. Around 22 million turkeys will be consumed for Christmas as families gather to celebrate the holiday. Like everything else, the cost of a turkey has gone up. From 2023 to 2024, the price of a whole turkey went up from $27.90 to $30.15. Thankfully, some organizations and businesses make it possible to get your Christmas turkey for free. If you’re looking to save money or help someone in need, here are four places you can contact to score a free turkey for your holiday celebrations.
1. Local Food Banks and Community Programs
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Food banks, charities, and community initiatives like Feeding America often organize free turkey giveaways during Christmas. These programs help ensure that families in need can enjoy a traditional holiday meal. To discover these opportunities, check announcements from local food pantries, churches, and community centers. Planning ahead is a good idea, as some programs may require early registration.
2. Grocery Store Promotions
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Many grocery stores have special offers during the holidays. Although they don’t usually give away turkeys for free, their prices often drop significantly after Thanksgiving. You might also be able to get a free turkey if you spend a certain amount of money. Stores like ShopRite, Giant, and Safeway sometimes have deals where you get a free frozen turkey if you spend $100 or more. Check their weekly ads or loyalty programs to see if there are any deals like that near you, and plan your holiday grocery shopping to save as much money as possible. You can also check websites like Ibotta to see if they have any cashback offers for turkeys.
3. Employer or Union Holiday Bonuses
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Many organizations show appreciation to their employees during the holidays by providing festive bonuses, such as free turkeys. This is a common practice in various industries. In my workplace, employees receive grocery store gift cards. If your workplace hasn’t mentioned any holiday perks, it’s worth asking about them, as there might be an established tradition you’re not aware of.
4. Radio Station or Community Giveaways
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Free Christmas turkeys are often given away through contests and giveaways hosted by local radio stations and community organizations. These events may involve call-ins, event attendance, online sign-ups, or even community turkey drives. To find these opportunities, keep an eye on local broadcasts and social media pages. Although winning relies on a bit of luck, participating in these giveaways can be a fun and free way to get your holiday turkey.
This holiday season, securing a free turkey for your Christmas dinner is easier than you might think. Numerous options are available, including local food banks, grocery store promotions, employer bonuses, and community giveaways. By planning ahead and taking advantage of these opportunities, you can ensure a memorable and budget-friendly holiday feast.
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