How to Get a Free Turkey for Thanksgiving: 5 Smart Ways to Save

With turkey prices climbing 25% compared to last year, according to Purdue University College of Agriculture data, hunting for a free turkey has become a serious money-saving strategy for holiday shoppers. The good news? Several major retailers and community resources are offering complimentary turkeys if you meet their spending requirements. Here’s where you can snag one without breaking the bank.

Acme Markets: Lowest Spending Threshold

If you’re looking for the easiest free turkey option among major chains, Acme Markets sets the bar at $300. Shoppers who accumulate $300 or more in purchases between October 17, 2025 and November 27, 2025 using the Acme app can claim a free Signature Select frozen turkey or turkey breast. With 158 locations across New Jersey, Pennsylvania, New York, Delaware, Maryland and Connecticut, Acme makes it accessible for mid-Atlantic residents.

Important note: Ensure you use the phone number linked to your Acme for U account to properly track your spending and activate your offer.

BJ’s Wholesale Club: Fresh or Frozen Options

BJ’s Wholesale Club is back with its annual turkey giveaway this Thanksgiving season. Members who spend $150 in a single purchase by November 10, 2025 receive a coupon for a complimentary fresh or frozen Butterball turkey worth up to $25.

Key details: Organic turkeys are excluded from this promotion, and you must redeem your free turkey between November 15 and November 26, 2025. Plan your shopping trip accordingly to lock in your savings.

Giant Eagle: $350 Spending Requirement

Giant Eagle, operating 175 corporate and 54 independently owned supermarkets across Pennsylvania, Ohio, West Virginia, Maryland and Indiana, requires $350 in purchases through November 9, 2025 to qualify for a free turkey.

You’ll need to enroll in the myPerks Loyalty Card program and make your qualifying purchases with a linked card. Redemption window extends through November 30, 2025, giving you flexibility to claim your bird closer to the holiday.

ShopRite: Widest Holiday Item Selection

ShopRite takes a different approach, allowing customers who spend $400 using their Price Plus loyalty card from now through Thanksgiving Day to choose from multiple free or discounted holiday options. Beyond traditional turkeys (fresh or frozen), you can opt for smoked ham, plant-based “turk’y” roast, lasagna and other sides.

Heads up: Maryland ShopRite locations are not participating, so check store availability in your area. If you’ve been shopping with your Price Plus card since October 26, 2025, you can track your progress online toward earning your free item.

Community Food Pantries: Help for Those in Need

For those facing financial constraints, Feeding America operates a nationwide network of food banks and local pantries that distribute free turkeys and holiday meals to qualifying individuals and families. Visit FeedingAmerica.org to locate your nearest food bank and pantry.

Process: Select your state or region to find local options, including mobile pantries. Reach out early, as turkey requests fill quickly. You may need to provide proof of financial need based on income or residency documentation. Some pantries also require that you live within their service area.

Whether you’re a strategic shopper working toward a $150 minimum or someone seeking community assistance, these five avenues offer genuine ways to get a free turkey this Thanksgiving. The key is acting fast—promotional deadlines vary, and food pantry supplies are limited. Start planning your free turkey claim today and redirect those savings toward other holiday essentials.