NFL Thanksgiving 2025: Complete Schedule, Game Times, and Halftime Show Lineup

The National Football League has unveiled its full 2025 Thanksgiving Day schedule. Three crucial games are set for November 27, featuring the league’s most storied holiday traditions. The Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys will once again host their annual matchups.

This year’s slate promises high-stakes football and major star power. According to the NFL’s official release, the day includes a prime-time AFC North showdown to cap the festivities. The holiday games often have significant playoff implications.

Thanksgiving Day Game Schedule and Broadcast Details

The action kicks off with the early game from Detroit. The Lions will host the Green Bay Packers at Ford Field. Kickoff is scheduled for 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time on FOX.

Next, the Dallas Cowboys face the Kansas City Chiefs at AT&T Stadium. That game begins at 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time on CBS. It is a rematch of a recent Super Bowl.

The nightcap features the Cincinnati Bengals visiting the Baltimore Ravens. This game starts at 8:20 p.m. Eastern Time on NBC. All three contests will be available for live streaming on respective network apps and NFL+.

Halftime Entertainment and Special Performances

This year’s halftime shows feature an impressive roster of musical talent. The Lions’ performance will be headlined by rock legend and Detroit native Jack White. His show follows his recent induction into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame.

The Cowboys’ halftime will feature a performance by global superstar Post Malone. For the prime-time game, Lil Jon will bring his high-energy act to Baltimore. These performances have become a major part of the Thanksgiving football experience.

The NFL continues to blend sports and entertainment on its biggest holiday stage. These shows provide a break from the on-field action while keeping viewers engaged.

The Deep-Rooted History of NFL Thanksgiving Games

The tradition of NFL games on Thanksgiving dates back nearly a century. The Detroit Lions have hosted a game every Thanksgiving since 1934, with a brief pause during World War II. This makes it the longest-running holiday tradition in professional sports.

The Dallas Cowboys began their Thanksgiving tradition in 1966. Their games quickly became a national institution. The league added a third prime-time game to the schedule in 2006 to expand the holiday offering.

These games routinely draw some of the largest television audiences of the regular season. Families across America plan their holiday gatherings around the football schedule.

The 2025 NFL Thanksgiving schedule delivers three compelling matchups with major playoff implications, continuing a beloved American tradition that combines football, family, and entertainment.

Thought you’d like to know

What time do the NFL Thanksgiving games start?

The first game begins at 1:00 p.m. Eastern Time. The second game starts at 4:30 p.m. Eastern, and the night game kicks off at 8:20 p.m. Eastern. This schedule allows for full-day viewing.

Which teams always play on Thanksgiving?

The Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys have traditional Thanksgiving Day games every year. The Lions always host the early game, while the Cowboys host the afternoon matchup. A rotating matchup fills the prime-time slot.

Who is performing at the 2025 Thanksgiving halftime shows?

Jack White will perform in Detroit, Post Malone in Dallas, and Lil Jon in Baltimore. The NFL secures major musical acts to complement the football action. These performances have become highly anticipated events.

How can I stream the Thanksgiving NFL games?

All games can be streamed through the official apps of the broadcasting networks (FOX, CBS, NBC). They are also available on NFL+ and various live TV streaming services. Check your local listings for specific availability.

Why do the Lions and Cowboys always host Thanksgiving games?

This tradition began for the Lions in 1934 to attract fans and build publicity. The Cowboys started their tradition in 1966 for similar reasons. Both teams have maintained these iconic holiday slots for decades.

What channel is the Cowboys vs Chiefs game on?

The Cowboys versus Chiefs game will air on CBS at 4:30 p.m. Eastern Time. Jim Nantz and Tony Romo are expected to call the game. The broadcast will be available on local CBS affiliates nationwide.