The holiday season is often filled with joy, family gatherings, and good food. However, it can also bring financial stress—especially with grocery prices at their highest in recent years. This year, two major grocery retailers, Walmart and Aldi, are helping consumers enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving meal without overspending.
Walmart’s Holiday Meal Deal
Walmart recently announced its popular Holiday Meal Deal for about $4.00 per person. The bundle includes more than 20 classic holiday items designed to serve ten people (Snider, USA Today, October 22, 2025). The goal is to help families prepare a full Thanksgiving meal at an affordable price.
Aldi’s Budget-Friendly Feast
Aldi, a growing grocery retailer known for its low prices, also introduced a Holiday Meal Promotion priced around $40 for ten people. Aldi continues to gain popularity among shoppers looking to stretch their food dollars while maintaining quality.
Comparing Costs in a Higher-Cost Area
To see how these meal deals compare, I reviewed both lists using prices from my local area, which tends to have a higher cost of living.
– Walmart: The base list totaled $39.92, but after adding essentials such as whipped topping, butter, eggs, poultry seasoning, and cinnamon, the cost increased to $51.47.
– Aldi: The Aldi list came to about $40.00, and with additional items like butter, milk, cinnamon, eggs, and canned corn, the total was $51.55.
Both stores offered similar overall values once those extra staples were included.
What’s in the Cart
Both meal plans provide traditional holiday favorites with a balance of fresh and shelf-stable items. Each includes the basics for a homemade pumpkin pie, although a few additional ingredients are needed. Aldi’s list includes celery and onions for stuffing, while Walmart’s does not—something to consider when planning your menu.
A Budget-Friendly Celebration
With the added ingredients, both meal options average about $5.16 per person, making either one a thrifty and satisfying way to celebrate Thanksgiving.
Taking time to compare prices, plan menus, and use what’s already in your pantry can go a long way toward keeping your holiday budget on track. With thoughtful planning, families can enjoy a festive, delicious meal without stretching their finances.
Reference:
Snider, M. (2025, October 22). Walmart’s Thanksgiving Meal. USA Today.
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