Thanksgiving Travel Surge, NC Turkeys Pardoned, Dinner Costs Down

AAA projects that nearly 82 million Americans will travel for Thanksgiving this year, marking one of the busiest holiday travel periods in decades. In a tradition with political flair, President Trump pardoned North Carolina–raised turkeys at the White House, blending the ceremony with prayer and remarks on faith and family. New data from the American Farm Bureau Federation shows the cost of a traditional Thanksgiving dinner has declined compared to last year, offering some relief to consumers. Meanwhile, state officials are warning shoppers ahead of Black Friday after millions were scammed from North Carolinians during the 2025 holiday shopping season.