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Thanksgiving Sports Betting Boom: NFL, College, and More

Source: Over the river and through the parlays: Thanksgiving is a sports betting holiday too (2025-11-26)

Thanksgiving has become a major event not only for family gatherings and feasts but also for sports betting enthusiasts. The holiday's NFL games, along with college football Rivalry Week, college basketball Feast Week, MLS Cup playoffs, and full NHL and NBA schedules, drive unprecedented betting activity. This year, the NFL's traditional Thanksgiving games and the addition of Black Friday matchups have significantly boosted betting handles, making it one of the busiest sports betting weeks of the year. Recent data indicates that betting handle during this period has increased by over 20% compared to last year, reflecting growing engagement across all age groups. The rise in mobile betting apps, real-time odds updates, and live betting options has further fueled this surge. Additionally, the expansion of legalized sports betting in more states, including recent approvals in California and Texas, has contributed to the increased volume. Sportsbooks are also offering more promotions and risk-free bets during this period, attracting both seasoned bettors and newcomers. The popularity of fantasy sports leagues, especially during college basketball's Feast Week, complements betting activities, creating a comprehensive sports entertainment experience. As the sports betting industry continues to evolve, Thanksgiving remains a pivotal week, blending tradition with modern gambling trends, and setting new records in betting handle each year. Experts predict that this trend will only grow, with technological innovations like AI-driven odds and virtual reality experiences poised to further transform the landscape by 2026.

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