The shutdown is over. Flights have resumed. Thanksgiving travelers might wonder: What now?

Nearly 20 million travelers are expected to pass through TSA checkpoints this week, marking one of the busiest Thanksgiving travel periods in 15 years, according to the Department of Transportation's flight forecast. The surge in air travel is anticipated to occur during the seven-day period starting November 23, 2025.

Former Black Panther Party leader H. Rap Brown has died at the age of 82 in a prison hospital. His passing marks the end of a significant chapter in the history of the Black Panther Party, which was known for its activism in the civil rights movement during the 1960s and 1970s.

The flu season has begun earlier than expected in several regions of the United States, raising alarms among healthcare professionals about a potential surge in cases as millions prepare to travel for Thanksgiving and other holidays. Doctors are particularly concerned about the implications of increased gatherings during this time.

Ohio has officially become the 45th state to approve a bylaw allowing high school athletes to enter into name, image, and likeness (NIL) agreements. This decision marks a significant shift in the landscape of high school sports, enabling athletes to monetize their personal brands legally.

The Thanksgiving holiday rush is anticipated to set new records, with AAA estimating that 82 million Americans will travel at least 50 miles from November 23 to December 1, 2025. This surge in travel is expected despite potential disruptions from two forecasted storm systems bringing snow and rain across the country.

President Trump commenced Thanksgiving week with the traditional turkey pardon ceremony at the White House, a festive event that highlights the holiday spirit. The First Lady engaged the public by inviting them to vote on names for the pardoned turkeys through social media platforms.

President Trump highlighted Walmart's promotion of lower grocery prices as evidence of his administration's success in reducing the cost of living ahead of Thanksgiving. However, economists caution that holiday food prices are unpredictable and largely depend on consumer shopping behavior.

The U.S. turkey population has reached a 40-year low due to bird flu and another disease, impacting the availability of turkeys for Thanksgiving this year. Despite this decline, stores are managing to keep turkey prices stable, while other Thanksgiving food items may see price increases.