travel on thanksgiving day

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The Busiest Travel Days Around Thanksgiving

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Thanksgiving week tends to draw major airport crowds, and coupled with inevitable weather delays, it can be a brutal time to travel. Not to mention, the conventional wisdom to fly on Tuesdays won't necessarily save you much money.

But some days within Thanksgiving week are significantly busier than others. If you can afford to be flexible with scheduling, you’ll not only save money, but you might also avoid chaos.

The best and worst days to fly around Thanksgiving

NerdWallet analyzed checkpoint travel numbers provided by the Transportation Security Administration from 2019-2022, which tracks the number of passengers screened daily in the U.S. at its checkpoints.

The data shows that the Sunday after Thanksgiving is the most crowded day to travel from the seven days before and after Thanksgiving.

Are airports busy on Thanksgiving Day? Our analysis shows that the actual holiday is the least crowded travel day at airports.

From 2019-2022, here were the most to least crowded days for Thanksgiving flying:

Sunday after Thanksgiving (most crowded).

Wednesday before Thanksgiving.

Friday before.

Monday after (Cyber Monday).

Saturday after.

Sunday before.

Tuesday before.

Thursday before.

Monday before.

Saturday before.

Thursday after.

Tuesday after (Giving Tuesday).

Friday after (Black Friday).

Wednesday after.

Thanksgiving Day (least crowded).

When broken out by pre- and post-holiday travel, here are the three least-crowded days to travel ranked from least to most crowded. Because they're less crowded and likely less expensive, it makes them some of the best days to fly around Thanksgiving.

Pre-holiday:

Saturday before (least crowded).

Post-holiday:

Wednesday after (least crowded).

Black Friday.

Tuesday after.

Why flying the Sunday after Thanksgiving is so terrible

By almost all metrics, the Sunday after Thanksgiving is pretty much the worst day of the year to fly. In 2019, 2021 and 2022, it was the busiest single day of the entire year in terms of U.S. passengers, based on TSA passenger data.

(The post-Thanksgiving Sunday wasn't the busiest day of the year in 2020 because, well, you know why. The most-crowded-day award in 2020 went to Friday, Feb. 14, which preceded the Presidents Day weekend and pandemic-related travel restrictions.)

Here’s a breakdown of the number of people flying on Thanksgiving Day versus the Sunday after Thanksgiving in three recent years:

For every 100 people who were flying on Thanksgiving Day 2022, there were 183 people flying on the Sunday after.

The smarter, cheaper Thanksgiving weekend itinerary

If you work a standard Monday-Friday workweek, with two days off for the holiday, then leaving Wednesday after work and flying home Sunday night might make sense. That’s the schedule most people follow to avoid taking extra time off, and if you join in, then you’ll pay — both in terms of cost and crowds.

Beyond crowds, expect to pay big this year. Sure, average airfares are actually cheaper this year versus last (and are even cheaper this year versus pre-pandemic), with average airfares for the first six months of 2023 down 7.2% versus the same period in 2022, according to a NerdWallet analysis of consumer price index data released by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

But airfares can still feel incredibly high. That’s for a few reasons, including that basic economy seats have lowered overall prices. But for folks who end up paying a la carte for benefits that were typically included in the past (e.g., checked bags or the ability to select your seat), the total cost can end up sometimes more expensive given all those ancillary fees .

So how can you choose a better Thanksgiving travel itinerary to save money? Avoid the Wednesday-Sunday itinerary and try these travel days instead.

Travel on Thanksgiving Day

Is flying on Thanksgiving Day busy? Across travel days for the week before and after Thanksgiving, the holiday was the lowest-traffic day every year in our analysis. Book the first flight out for the day — a practice NerdWallet recommends anyway to reduce your odds of a flight delay — and you might even land in time for Thanksgiving dinner.

Stay longer

If you can extend your trip, the Wednesday after Thanksgiving is, on average, the second-emptiest day to travel. Especially if you have the option of remote work , you might be able to avoid taking vacation days, despite the longer trip.

Fly on Black Friday

If you must travel during the weekend, consider having Thanksgiving dinner at your own home, then flying somewhere on Black Friday, which is the third-least crowded day to fly on average.

Look at it as a great way to not only avoid airport crowds but also retail crowds since you won’t be out shopping.

The standard rules around the best (and worst) days to fly don’t necessarily apply. Coupling that with conventional wisdom around saving money on flights , flying for Thanksgiving might not be as painful a proposition as you once thought.

How to maximize your rewards

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The Vacationer • Air Travel • Air Travel Guides

When to Book Thanksgiving Flights – Travel Guide & Tips for 2024

Traveling on Thanksgiving does not have to be a stressful experience. While it is one of the busiest times of the year to fly, you can book an affordable flight at a desirable time. Last year’s Thanksgiving Travel Survey showed 45.21%, or 117 million American adults, planned to travel for Turkey Day. Our 2024 survey is not yet complete, but we expect the numbers to increase.

In addition to air travel tips, this guide will provide advice on booking accommodations and rental cars.

Table of Contents

When is Thanksgiving 2024?

Thanksgiving takes place this year on Thursday, November 28, 2024. Since Thanksgiving is always on a Thursday, its best and worst travel dates are easier to predict than other major holidays.

What Are the Best and Worst Times to Book Thanksgiving Flights?

Summer is the best time of the year to book Thanksgiving flights. Most people are not thinking about holiday flights yet, which is why June, July, and August are the months to book . You’ll generally see the cheapest prices during the summer as well as the ability to select a more desirable flight. Here are a few of those options.

• More Direct Routes
• More Desirable Seats
• Better Times

There are only a limited number of flights available during the Thanksgiving travel period. As more people book, prices increase and only poor routes with less-than-desirable seats remain.

At the very latest, book your Thanksgiving flight by Halloween. But remember, earlier is better. If you fail to book in the summer months, aim to book by the middle of September.

Those booking in November are usually subject to high prices for a limited number of routes and seats.

Here is how I rank the different periods to purchase Thanksgiving airfare.

• June, July, and August  – Best combination of inventory and cheap prices
• Early through Middle September  – Still a great time
• Early October  – Deals are still available but desirable flights may be limited
• Halloween  – Book Thanksgiving flights by Halloween at the latest
• November  – High prices and poor flights (connections, middle seats, bad times, etc.)

See Also:   When to Book Christmas Flights  and  Best & Worst Days to Fly for the Holidays

What Are the Best Days to Fly Around Thanksgiving 2024?

Here are our predictions for the best days to fly for Thanksgiving this year. To get these days, we analyzed Thanksgiving flight data from previous years. We also sampled prices from hundreds of routes around the end of November.

Best Departure Dates

• Sunday, November 24
• Monday, November 25
• Tuesday, November 26
• Thursday, November 28 (Thanksgiving Day)

Fly as early as possible during Thanksgiving week. Most people work the Monday and Tuesday before Thanksgiving before flying out on Wednesday. Thanksgiving Day is also a great day to fly, but most people do not do it for obvious reasons.

Best Return Dates

• Friday, November 29 (Black Friday)
• Monday, December 2
• Tuesday, December 3
• Wednesday, December 4

The Friday after Thanksgiving, also known as Black Friday, is historically a great day to fly home. Alternatives include the Monday and Tuesday after Thanksgiving, with prices even lower on Wednesday.

What Are the Worst Days to Fly Around Thanksgiving 2024?

Here are the worst days to fly around Thanksgiving. As with our best days, we reviewed data from previous years as well as sampled hundreds of routes around Turkey Day.

Worst Departure Dates

• Wednesday, November 27 (the day before Thanksgiving)

The Wednesday before Thanksgiving is always an expensive day to fly. Additionally, it is busy and often stressful, which is why we recommend avoiding it.

Worst Return Dates

• Saturday, November 30 (the Saturday after Thanksgiving)
• Sunday, December 1 (the Sunday after Thanksgiving)

The Sunday after Thanksgiving is the day most people fly home. It makes sense because it lets you enjoy the weekend and return to work on Monday. For that reason, it is often very expensive to fly this day. Avoid it.

Thanksgiving Flight Booking Tips

The tips from our How to Find Cheap Flights guide work for Thanksgiving, with a few caveats.

Book in the Summer: As previously detailed, you need to book your Thanksgiving flight during the summer months. That gives you the best chance of getting a great deal on a desirable flight with a seat you want. Book before Halloween at the absolute latest.

Follow Our Date Guidelines: We always say flexibility is the key to getting a great deal on a flight. Unfortunately, your flexibility is somewhat limited when flying during a holiday like Thanksgiving. Regardless, use our dates as a starting point. Depart on the earlier end such as Sunday, November 24, and return on the later end such as Wednesday, December 4.

Book a Nonstop Flight: Booking early gives you access to the largest number of nonstop flights. Besides the obvious reasons, nonstop flights also have lower odds of experiencing a delay or cancellation, which is often an issue around Thanksgiving.

Fly Early in the Morning: Flights taking off very early in the morning are less likely to experience an interruption than those taking off later in the day. This is especially important during Thanksgiving when airports are full and flights are packed.

Avoid Booking With an Online Travel Agency: There are rarely any advantages to booking flights with an online travel agency as opposed to booking directly with the airline. Prices are often similar, and the online travel agency is nothing but a middleman. This is usually not a big issue, but it may be if you need to change your flight during the busy Thanksgiving travel period; It is always quicker to make a change by talking directly to the airline.

Consider Flying International: Thanksgiving is a great time to fly to an international destination because the majority of people fly domestically to visit friends and family. Additionally, most international spots do not celebrate Thanksgiving. That provides the perfect opportunity to visit popular destinations like France, Italy, and the rest of Europe. As always, book international Thanksgiving flights even earlier than domestic flights.

Further Reading: Best & Worst Days to Fly for the Holidays – Thanksgiving, Christmas, & New Year’s

Best Destinations to Fly to Over Thanksgiving This Year for Cheap

Stay tuned for some of the best places to fly to over Thanksgiving this year. This will only be a small sample of the many great deals available. To find more, use the Google Flights Explore feature. Simply enter your departure airport and dates, and Google will show you the cheapest places to fly to around Thanksgiving!

Domestic (2024 route samples coming soon)

Here are a few of the best domestic routes we found for Thanksgiving this year. Please note, these prices are subject to change . All routes are nonstop. It is more than possible to book a domestic roundtrip flight for $200 or less. Many routes are available for under $300

When considering domestic routes, look at your airline’s hub cities for cheaper prices. For example, my home airport is Philadelphia (PHL), which is an American Airlines hub. Other American Airlines hubs include Miami and Phoenix. Oftentimes, I’ll find cheaper prices flying hub to hub with a particular airline around the holidays.

International (2024 route samples coming soon)

Here are a few of the best international routes we found for Thanksgiving this year. Please note, these prices are subject to change . All routes are nonstop. It is more than possible to book an international roundtrip flight for $375 or less. Many routes are available for under $550.

Avoiding Thanksgiving Flight Cancellations & Delays

Busy travel times like Thanksgiving often see increase flight delays and cancellations. While you can’t fully prevent a significant interruption, there are things you can do to minimize your chances.

• Book a Very Early Morning Flight – These flights are less likely to be canceled or delayed.
• Book a Nonstop Itinerary – Fewer legs means lower odds of experiencing an interruption.
• Book Directly with the Airline – Lets you cut out the middleman if you need to quickly rebook your flight at the airport or before arriving.
• Know Your Rights – By law, you are entitled to a cash refund if your flight is canceled or significantly delayed. See What to Do if Your Airline Cancels or Delays Your Flight .
• Book With a Credit Card Offering Travel Insurance – Many credit cards provide travel insurance benefits if your flight is delayed or canceled. This includes meals and potentially overnight lodging.

Further Reading: How to Avoid Flight Delays and Cancellations

Accommodations/Car Rentals

The same rules apply to accommodations and car rentals. Here are a few important guidelines.

Book Well in Advance of Thanksgiving: As with flights, there are only a limited number of desirable accommodations and car rentals available during Thanksgiving. After hopefully booking your flight during the summer, immediately start searching for accommodations and cars.

Book Refundable Hotels and Car Rentals: Focus on refundable accommodations and car rentals. After booking, monitor prices to see if they go down. If they drop, rebook at the lower price, and pocket the difference.

Further Reading: How to Find Cheap Hotels and How to Find Cheap Car Rentals

The Vacationer’s Final Thoughts

The key to getting a good deal on your Thanksgiving flight is to book it when no one is thinking about it yet. That means during the summer months. Focus on our predicted best and worst days to fly, but stay flexible. Consider taking an international vacation if you do not have a set destination as there are often great flight deals around Thanksgiving. Finally, book your flight with a credit card offering travel insurance for interruptions, delays, and cancellations.

By Phil Dengler

In addition to being a co-founder of The Vacationer, Phil Dengler is also the head of editorial and marketing. Previously, he ran a popular holiday deals website where he was a trusted source for all things Black Friday. With The Vacationer, Phil combines his knowledge of deals with his love of travel to help you plan the perfect vacation.

Best & Worst Days to Fly & Travel for the Holidays – Thanksgiving & Christmas 2024

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Christmas Travel Survey 2023 – 50.44% (131 million American adults) to Travel for the Holidays; 59%+ Expect Airline Delays & Cancellations

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The Best (and Worst) Days to Fly for Thanksgiving

Peter Thornton

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The leisure travel industry has rebounded from the pandemic more than expected in 2021 and with more Americans comfortable traveling this year, it should be expected that the typical busy travel days around the Thanksgiving holiday will, once again, indeed be busy.

In 2020, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) screened more than one million passengers in a day only one time between mid-March and the week leading up to Thanksgiving. In contrast, more than one million passengers have passed through TSA screening every single day since mid-March 2021.

While the numbers are still lower than 2019 levels, airports around the country will be more crowded than we’ve become accustomed to since the start of the pandemic. Hopper is forecasting a daily throughput of about 1.9 million travelers for Thanksgiving, which is about 75% of 2019 levels and nearly double 2020 levels.

The 7 Best Places to Go for Thanksgiving

When to Fly for Thanksgiving 2021

Having flexible travel dates is the key to finding cheap flights any time of the year but this is even more apparent when traveling around a fixed holiday such as Thanksgiving. Historically, the Wednesday before and the Sunday after Thanksgiving are two of the busiest (and most expensive) travel days of the year for U.S. domestic travel.

With many kids back in school, it’s looking like this will be the case again in 2021, though if you’re able to flex your travel dates by just a few days or extend your trip to fly a week early or return a week later, you can save some money and avoid the largest crowds at the airport.

What Are the Worst Days to Fly for Thanksgiving 2021?

Of course, the best and worst days to fly for a holiday are subjective. Some might prefer to pay whatever it costs to maximize time with family while others will prioritize cost in order to make the trip a reality. From an airfare perspective, it’s best to avoid the busiest travel days.

• Wednesday, November 24 th
• Sunday, November 28 th

Data from both Hopper and CheapAir indicate that domestic airfare is averaging around $300 roundtrip for Thanksgiving travel, with flights returning on Sunday, November 28 th about $90/ticket more expensive than returning on Monday and $180/ticket more expensive than returning on Tuesday. This average is rising as we get closer to the date of travel and the actual price depends heavily on the route and which dates you choose to travel.

For instance, take these examples of roundtrip flights from New York-JFK to Los Angeles searched on October 14, 2021. Note: Prices will likely change before publication.

• Wed, Nov. 24 – Sun, Nov. 28: $712 nonstop on Delta
• Mon, Nov. 22 – Sun, Nov. 28: $632 nonstop on Delta
• Wed, Nov. 24 – Tue, Nov. 30: $418 nonstop on United
• Mon, Nov. 22 – Tue, Nov. 30: $325 nonstop on United

As you can see, adjusting your return travel date will likely have a bigger impact on price than adjusting your departure travel date. If you’re only flexible on one end, choose to return later after the holiday rather than depart earlier.

Other travel dates that are trending on the expensive side for Thanksgiving travel include:

• Saturday, November 27 th
• Monday, November 29 th

The Best and Worst Days to Travel for Thanksgiving and Christmas

What Are the Best Days to Fly for Thanksgiving 2021?

Flying on the holiday itself will be one of the cheapest days to fly. Although this may not be ideal for many, if you’re just looking for an affordable way to see the family for Thanksgiving dinner, this may be an option to consider. Otherwise, extending your trip to leave and/or return on off-peak travel days can help reduce the cost of your flight. The cheapest days to fly for Thanksgiving 2021 include:

• Sunday, November 21 st
• Monday, November 22 nd
• Thursday, November 25 th (Thanksgiving Day)
• Friday, November 26 th
• Tuesday, November 30 th

Thanksgiving Travel Deals for International Travel

Since most Americans are focused on domestic travel around the Thanksgiving holiday, it is actually a great time to score a deal on international travel. Options are still limited due to travel restrictions, but it’s now possible for vaccinated travelers to fly to several destinations in Europe and a few more South American countries are opening their borders this fall.

You may be surprised to find that it’s cheaper (or only slightly more expensive) to fly your family across the pond than it is to fly across the country during Thanksgiving weekend. And you can usually find the cheapest international fares departing on the Tuesday or Wednesday before Thanksgiving, which are typically expensive days to fly domestically.

The Best Tools for Flexible Date Searches

Book Thanksgiving Travel Before Halloween

Whether you choose to fly domestic or international, it will be best to book your flights at least three weeks in advance, which is when airfares tend to rise even more. This means you’ll want to try and purchase tickets before the end of October. Hopper is forecasting that domestic airfares will increase around 40% if you wait to book until November and an additional 25% for last-minute bookings.

There have been last-minute sales for Thanksgiving travel in the past but with airlines flying fewer seats this year, it’s less likely that seats will need to be filled at the last-minute. And these types of sales in the past have typically been on ultra-low-cost carriers like Frontier or Spirit and/or have only been for very limited off-peak travel dates/times.

Since most airlines are offering free changes to even the most basic tickets booked for travel through 2021, you can book now with the peace of mind that you can change your travel plans in the future without paying any extra fees. Bottom line, be flexible with your travel dates and book your Thanksgiving trip sooner than later for the best deals.

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This Thanksgiving, Full Planes to Go With Full Plates

With about 30 million travelers expected to jam U.S. airports this year and storms in the forecast, you may want to take an extra helping of patience, too.

By Steven Moity

A government shutdown won’t be disrupting travel plans this Thanksgiving after Congress agreed on Wednesday to a funding package that lasts through early next year. But clouds and crowds might make your trip a slog anyway.

The Transportation Security Administration expects about 30 million passengers to fly between this Friday and the Tuesday after Thanksgiving, an 11.5 percent increase over the same period last year.

The weather won’t make the Thanksgiving crush any easier. Weekend storms in New England and low clouds and rain on the California coast could cause some delays. And Monday through Wednesday morning, a strong cold front will move eastward, slowing operations at airline hubs like Houston and Chicago before soaking the East Coast, said Paul Pastelok, a senior meteorologist at AccuWeather.

If you haven’t booked your trip already, average airfare prices are slightly lower than they were in 2019, said Melanie Fish, head of public relations at Expedia Brands, and you can really save time and money if you fly on Thanksgiving Day.

“According to Expedia data, flying on Thanksgiving Day is 11 percent cheaper than average for the week of Thanksgiving, but here’s the real kicker — it’s almost half as busy compared to the day before Thanksgiving,” Ms. Fish said.

The four major New York City-area airports run by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey are expecting 3.1 million passengers from this Monday through the Monday after Thanksgiving, up slightly from three million over the same period last year, said Seth Stein, spokesman for the Port Authority.

Those planning to crowd the streets of Manhattan — instead of the airports — for the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade can expect the giant balloons to be flying high: The forecast calls for very little wind, Mr. Pastelok said, and the day will be sunny and chilly, with temperatures topping out in the mid-40s.

On the ground

AAA predicts that 49.1 million Americans will drive to their destinations for Thanksgiving, an increase of 1.7 percent compared with 2022, said Robert Sinclair Jr., a senior manager at AAA. That means jammed highways, with the busiest days forecast to be this Wednesday and the Sunday after Thanksgiving.

Drivers may face longer travel times than usual on certain routes, AAA reported . Along Interstate 5 between Los Angeles and Bakersfield, Calif., expect to spend 88 percent more travel time than usual on Wednesday afternoon. Drivers on the Baltimore-Washington Parkway, north of the nation’s capital, are projected to spend 71 percent more time on the road, starting early Wednesday afternoon.

Filling up the tank will cost those drivers less. Average gas prices nationwide are projected to drop to $3.25 per gallon next week, said Patrick De Haan, head of petroleum analysis at GasBuddy . “Average gas prices have plummeted in all 50 states in the weeks ahead of Thanksgiving, with $2.99 prices spreading like wildfire just in time for the start of the holiday season,” he said in a news release .

Americans are also taking to the rails at higher numbers this year, with Amtrak expecting 750,000 customers from this Sunday until the Sunday after Thanksgiving, said Jason Abrams, senior public relations manager at Amtrak, a jump of about 2 percent.

Mr. Sinclair of AAA had a bit of advice for all the Thanksgiving road warriors: Beat the Sunday traffic by driving on Saturday. “For those who listen to Ben Franklin,” Mr. Sinclair said, “Fish and company go bad after three days.”

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2023 .

Open Up Your World

Considering a trip, or just some armchair traveling here are some ideas..

52 Places:  Why do we travel? For food, culture, adventure, natural beauty? Our 2024 list has all those elements, and more .

Provincetown, Mass.:  Located at the tip of Cape Cod, P-town (as locals call it) has overlapping — and sometimes competing — identities : one of America’s oldest art colonies, nature preserve, thriving L.G.B.T.Q. resort and historic Portuguese fishing village.

Lake Como, Italy:  Stars like George Clooney frequent this scenic corner of northern Italy, but you might be surprised by how affordable it can be. Here’s an insider’s guide .

South of France:  Horses, bulls and birds of all types live among the pink marshes of the Camargue, a rugged landscape shaped  by the relentless push and pull of sea and river.

Disney Theme Parks:  As Disney has raised the cost of tickets and hotel rooms at its theme parks, and added pricey, difficult-to-navigate tools, even its most loyal fans are asking themselves  if they should rethink their vacations.

Helsinki, Finland:   Explore the stunning architecture  of the new central library, browse treasure-filled shops in the Design District, sweat in a wood-burning sauna, sip cocktails on a schooner and trek across islands in the surrounding archipelago.

Your Thanksgiving travel guide: Forecasts from airlines and best times to hit the road

AAA predicts nearly 49 million people to travel by car this Thanksgiving.

Millions are expected to fly during the Thanksgiving holiday and airlines say they're prepared for the travel rush.

Airlines this fall boasted the most full-time employees in 20 years, and industry leaders say airlines are well-positioned to handle the holiday uptick in passengers.

On the roads, AAA predicts nearly 49 million people to travel by car over Thanksgiving -- up 0.4% from last year.

Here's what you need to know:

MORE: Experts share best times to book, airport hacks and more holiday travel insights

Travelers staying in the U.S for Thanksgiving are headed to big cities like New York, Orlando and Los Angeles, according to Hopper. For international travel, Dublin, Cancun and Doha, Qatar, are topping Hopper’s list of most-booked destinations.

American Airlines expects to serve 6.8 million customers over Thanksgiving with more than 66,000 scheduled flights. American said Sunday, Nov. 27 will likely be its busiest travel day.

Delta Air Lines plans to carry nearly 6 million customers from Nov. 18 to Nov. 29. Delta also expects its peak travel days to be Nov. 18 and Nov. 27.

United Airlines is preparing for more than 5.5 million travelers between Nov. 18 and Nov. 30. Houston, Chicago O’Hare, Denver and Newark will be United’s busiest airports over the holiday. United anticipates Nov. 27 will be its busiest travel day since the COVID-19 pandemic began.

This year is forecast to be the third-busiest for Thanksgiving travel since AAA started tracking in 2000.

If you're hitting the road on the day before Thanksgiving, the worst time to travel is between 11 a.m. and 8 p.m., while the best times are before 8 a.m. or after 8 p.m., according to transportation analytics company INRIX.

If you're looking to head back home on the day after Thanksgiving, the worst road travel time is between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m., while the best times are before 11 a.m. or after 8 p.m., INRIX said. The same road travel advice goes for the Sunday after Thanksgiving as well.

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Traveling for Thanksgiving? Here are 5 tips from travel experts

It's no secret that traveling this summer was more chaotic than in years past. But how will travel around Thanksgiving — one of the busiest flying seasons in the U.S. — look this year?

In the summer, air travel was hugely impacted by understaffing amid the COVID-19 pandemic, causing flight cancellations and delays along with lost baggage and an overall rocky journeying experience.

To ease the stress around traveling during this Thanksgiving season, TODAY spoke to two travel experts and consulted with travel site TripAdvisor to compile a list of tips and answer common questions about the less-than-friendly skies.

How will Thanksgiving travel look in 2022?

According to Tripadvisor's fall travel index , six out of 10 Americans plan to travel this season, despite the travel chaos, and 50% of people plan on traveling more this fall compared to last fall.

Melanie Lieberman, senior features editor at travel site The Points Guy, told TODAY that she is expecting a more chaotic travel season than normal, given the fact that airlines have already reduced their schedules and demand is high during the holiday season.

Bobby Laurie, a former flight attendant and co-host of travel show “The Jet Set,” pointed to a culmination of factors that he says has the potential to unfold in a disastrous way for travelers this Thanksgiving.

"What I'm really interested in watching is the convergence of COVID and the flu together without masks because that's something we haven't done yet," Laurie told TODAY, referencing how this holiday season will be the first winter and flu season that masks are no longer required on domestic flights.

"As people begin to call in sick, it's now a question of whether or not these airlines have enough staff to crew and man the plane," he said.

What time should I get to the airport?

Lieberman recommends arriving at the airport three hours before your flight to account for potentially long lines. But she also suggests taking extra measures to sidestep airport crowds.

"This is a really great time for travelers to ensure they are enrolled in programs that cut down on the time you need to spend at the airport and will make that travel process easier, so ensure that you are enrolled in TSA PreCheck ... or Clear," Lieberman said, referring to programs that allow travelers to skip long lines and have special exceptions at airport security, like not having to take your shoes off.

She also recommends checking if your credit card company allows access to an airport lounge, so you can arrive at the airport earlier and then spend time in the lounge.

Laurie also recommends arriving at the airport three hours before your flight, but he believes the long lines are the result of flyers anticipating them.

"Everyone goes super early, and then everyone's there for a 6 p.m. flight at 7 in the morning, and now you've got these lines that just continue on forever because everyone's paranoid," Laurie said.

To keep up to date with what airport lines might look like, Laurie suggests downloading the MyTSA app, where a special feature shows data from the Transportation Security Administration to check airport security wait times. FlightAware MiseryMap , dedicated to showing delays and cancelations in airports around the country, is another helpful tool.

What can I do to make the travel experience easier?

First and foremost, both experts emphasize the importance of flexibility and having a backup plan, because it's likely that your flying itinerary will not go perfectly smoothly.

Lieberman suggests flying out earlier in the week and later after Thanksgiving, given how short the holiday is, to give yourself a few days of buffer for getting where you need to be.

"One thing we've been recommending all summer long is taking the first flight out if you can, even if you're not an early bird," Lieberman said.

Casey Brogan, a consumer travel expert at Tripadvisor, told TODAY that the Wednesday before Thanksgiving will be the busiest day of travel. She recommends choosing your airports strategically.

"Airports in major hubs will be more crowded, (so) it’s a good time for travelers to take advantage of smaller regional airports whenever possible for a smoother experience with less delays and congestion," Brogan said.

Laurie added that some airlines have certain agreements with other airlines to rebook you should your flight get canceled.

"Not every airline has those agreements," Laurie said. "So in the back of your mind, have a backup plan in the event you are canceled and the next available flight isn't for three days, and at that point, it's already Thanksgiving."

How can I stay COVID-19 safe if there's no longer a mask mandate?

Masks are no longer mandated on domestic flights in the U.S., though some international flights may require masks through a country's specific COVID-19 requirements. But, Laurie said, masks are still recommended .

"It's not unusual anymore to board an airplane wearing a mask, whereas in 2019 if you did it, everyone would look at you thinking, 'Oh no, you're sick,'" he said. "Now, no one would even think a thing if you walk on the airplane wearing it, so why not do it to protect yourself?"

Additionally, with the flu season fast incoming, Laurie noted many people will be falling sick, and every airline is handling sick calls and positive COVID-19 cases differently.

To limit exposure and ease the travel process, Lieberman reiterated the importance of not traveling in the days immediately before and after the holiday, if possible, and instead trying to fly on less busy days earlier and later in the week.

How can I ease the travel process if I'm flying with children?

Lieberman recommends ensuring you have early boarding, whether that's part of the airline's policy or something that you have to pay for, because air travel will inevitably be more crowded this year.

"Flying on a less crowded day is definitely helpful," she emphasized. "(And) if you have a whole family traveling only with carry-ons, you want to make sure you have room for your bags in the overhead compartment ... so keeping your family together and getting early boarding is one way to cut down on the stress a little bit more."

Laurie recommends packing a little bit extra when traveling with children in the event that your journey hits a speed bump. He suggests looking into the airline's seating process, because some airlines will not necessarily seat families together just because they are on the same reservation.

"So long as there's a guardian for every child, there's no real requirement to fit you together if that's the fare you booked," Laurie said. "Make sure if you want to sit together, you spend the extra $15-$20 per ticket and ensure you have your seats together."

In all, Brogan summed up the travel experience in one concise tip: "Pack your patience, and recognize the airlines, hotels and restaurants on your vacation are doing their best to serve you despite continued labor and supply chain challenges."

Laya Neelakandan is a reporter for CNBC.

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Thanksgiving travel will be crowded, but not as chaotic as the summer

What to know about the busiest airports, high-traffic days and destinations for last-minute trips

A perfectly roasted turkey, grandma’s stuffing and a heaping side of travel chaos: Busy airports and expensive flights have become an annual Thanksgiving tradition, and this year will be no exception.

With many families reuniting for the first time since the pandemic began, nearly 55 million Americans are expected to travel more than 50 miles from home for the holiday this year, according to AAA . About 4.5 million plan to fly, an increase of nearly 8 percent from 2021.

This Thanksgiving is expected to be the “biggest air travel period since the start of covid,” said Peer Bueller, the chief financial officer at travel booking website Kayak.

“We’re inching really close to pre-pandemic levels,” especially for international travel, Bueller said.

After the chaos of summer travel this year, many travelers remain wary that staffing issues and extreme weather might derail their plans. Here’s what to know ahead of a busy travel week.

The busiest days at airports

Airlines have sold roughly 25 million seats departing from U.S. airports from the Sunday before Thanksgiving to the Sunday after, about 6 percent more capacity than 2019, according to Hayley Berg, lead economist at the travel booking app Hopper .

The largest surge of travelers will come to airports on Wednesday and Sunday, especially in the mornings, according to Berg. Atlanta, Dallas-Fort Worth and Denver airports are expected to be the nation’s busiest all week long, with crowds peaking in the mornings. Las Vegas, Phoenix and New York’s John F. Kennedy Airport will also be among the busiest but will see their largest crowds in the evenings, Berg said.

Your guide to surviving airport chaos

If you’re traveling during one of those peak times, expect long lines at security and have backup options in case your plans fall through, Berg said. “If you’re really worried, a lot of airlines are offering $0 changes to try to change your flight to earlier in the day or the day before,” she said.

The Transportation Security Administration will be “fully staffed” for the holiday period, with 20 million passengers expected to pass through checkpoints between Nov. 18 and Nov. 27, according to spokesperson Lisa Farbstein.

Farbstein recommends passengers arrive at the airport two hours early for a domestic flight and “pack some of that all-important patience.” If you’re traveling with Thanksgiving foods, be sure to place them in the right bag : solid foods like pie can go in a carry on, but liquids like wine and gravy must be checked.

“If you can spill it, spread it, spray it, pump it or pour it, then please pack it in a checked bag,” Farbstein said in an email.

The holiday foods you can and can’t bring in a carry-on, according to TSA

The days with peak Thanksgiving traffic

Travelers looking to avoid crowded airports may choose to hit the road, but expect significant congestion there, too.

Traffic is expected to peak Wednesday afternoon, especially in major metropolitan areas like New York City, Los Angeles, Chicago and Atlanta, according to INRIX, a transportation analytics firm.

If you need to travel Wednesday, leave before 8 a.m. or after 8 p.m. On Thanksgiving Day, try to drive before 11 a.m. or after 6 p.m., when traffic will be lightest, according to INRIX. For the return trip, avoid driving between 4 p.m. and 8 p.m. on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Gas prices have fallen 11 cents in the last week to $3.66 per gallon on average nationally as of Monday, according to AAA . While far below summer peaks of over $5 a gallon , it will still be the most expensive Thanksgiving for gas prices since AAA started tracking rates in 2000.

Drivers in the Mid-Atlantic region can find some relief at the gas station chain Sheetz, which has reduced its Unleaded 88 fuel to $1.99 a gallon for Thanksgiving week. Navigation apps like Waze and Google Maps now feature gas prices along your route, and Google Maps offers an eco-friendly routing option to find the most fuel-efficient route to your destination.

The best times to drive for Thanksgiving

Expect disruptions, but not as many as summer

Passengers who encountered delays, cancellations, lost bags and other travel disruptions this summer should expect some relief during Thanksgiving, according to experts.

Bueller said he expects disruptions during Thanksgiving to be “much less significant” than the summer, when factors like staffing and weather “blindsided” the industry.

“Thanksgiving is such a time-bound, well-defined travel period, and airlines have been able to prepare for that one much better than this summer,” he said.

Your canceled-flight emergency kit

Airlines say they have been hiring aggressively to deal with staffing shortages and adjusting schedules to improve reliability. Major U.S. carriers completed 99.3 percent of their flights in September and October, with 83 percent arriving on time, excluding those impacted by Hurricane Ian, according to the trade group Airlines for America.

Berg said airlines have been “very conservative” in scheduling for the remainder of 2022 to avoid overextending their fleets and staffing, which should allow them to fly the routes they planned.

“My expectation is that we’ll only see run-of-the-mill disruption, so think late tropical storms, blizzards, ice, snow — the more normal weather-based and every once in a while some equipment-based delays,” Berg said. Hopper expects the worst airports for delays to be Newark, Dallas Love Field and Miami.

Disruption remains top of mind for many air travelers, and Berg said about one-in-five customers are opting to buy Hopper’s Flight Disruption Guarantee , which allows for instant free rebooking in case of a flight disruption.

Storms could slow your return trip

In another relief to travelers, weather across most of the country is expected to be dry and mild on Wednesday, the busiest travel day, The Washington Post’s Capital Weather Gang reports .

Return travel could be more tricky. A storm system may bring rain and snow to the Northeast between Friday and the weekend, but meteorologists remain unsure of its intensity, so keep an eye on the forecast.

The South and Tennessee Valley are likely to see warm temperatures with some intermittent showers through the weekend. Rain is possible across most of Texas on Friday.

The Plains, Upper Midwest and Great Lakes, meanwhile, are expected to remain mostly dry and clear. The West should be mild and dry, with some rain possible in the Pacific Northwest.

Traveling? Here’s your region-by-region Thanksgiving forecast.

Last-minute deals on flights and hotels

The average Thanksgiving flight ticket was averaging around $380 round trip as of Thursday, with the price increasing $15 or more per day until the holiday, according to Berg.

“If you have not booked your Thanksgiving travel, you should book it today — right now — because prices are only going to increase from here,” Berg said.

Holiday travel prices are climbing high. Here’s how to save money.

Few deals remain, but if you’re looking for a last-minute getaway , flights to Atlanta are averaging around $100 and warm-weather destinations like Cancún, Mexico and Puerto Rico are around $400, she said. Travelers might also be able to score a cheap last-minute flight to Las Vegas and Nashville, where prices are averaging $321 and $345, respectively, according to Kayak.

On the hotel side, travelers might actually be able to benefit from waiting to book until the day they arrive, when hotels drop their rates as much as 25 percent to compete for the last-minute bookings, Berg noted. These deals are usually found in major cities with large hotel inventories, except for New York (because of its Thanksgiving parade) and leisure destinations like Miami.

“Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Dallas, Denver — pretty much any city that has a lot of hotel options, you’re going to see last minute deals,” Berg said.

It’s cheaper to travel early next year

Your money will go much further if you sit out holiday travel and book a trip for early in 2023.

Hopper, along with 75 airline and hotel partners, will host its annual Travel Deal Tuesday sale on Nov. 29, which will see 50 percent more deals than the average day, according to the company. On that day, average domestic airfare will be about $50 cheaper and international flights will drop by $160, and Hopper adds additional promotional discounts, Berg said.

Travelers staying home for the holidays should consider booking their travel for mid-January, when domestic flights will be 28 percent cheaper and international flights will be 25 percent cheaper, according to Kayak.

“Those are very significant step downs that are worth waiting for,” Bueller said.

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Watch CBS News

Traffic, weather — what's ahead for travelers during Thanksgiving 2023

By Allison Elyse Gualtieri , Kathryn Krupnik

Updated on: November 22, 2023 / 8:48 PM EST / CBS News

More people travel for Thanksgiving than any other U.S. holiday, and they get on the road or board planes starting nearly a week ahead of time. Friday — Nov. 17 this year — is generally regarded as the start of the holiday travel season, which stretches to the Tuesday following the holiday, Nov. 28 this year.

It's already been a record year for travel: The Transportation Security Administration saw seven of the 10 busiest days in its history in 2023, said then-Administrator David Pekoske. The TSA expects to screen more than 30 million travelers over the period, according to a news release, noting the three busiest days have historically been the Tuesday and Wednesday before Thanksgiving and the Sunday after.

And don't expect a reprieve on the roads — most Americans will get to their holiday destination by automobile. More than 55 million people are expected to head at least 50 miles to their Thanksgiving destination between Wednesday, Nov. 22 and Sunday, Nov. 26, and more than 49 million of them will drive, according to AAA . The organization predicts this year will see the third-highest travel numbers for the holiday stretch since 2000, marking a return to pre-pandemic levels. 

But all that travel could be complicated by the week's weather . Some parts of the country are seeing storms, including rain in the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast during some of the heaviest travel times. 

Here's what to expect — and when.

The day before Thanksgiving: Wednesday, Nov. 22

If you're traveling the Wednesday before Thanksgiving, you'll have a lot of company. The Federal Aviation Administration says that's the day the most flights are scheduled — 49,606 of them in the U.S., to be exact.

Oh, my gourd, Thanksgiving is here! We’re forecasting a peak of 49,606 flights on Wednesday, November 22. If you’re flying somewhere, we hope your flight is gravy. Carve out some time to fill up on tips to help you prepare at https://t.co/PKpvH0f8D2 . #Thanksgiving2023 🦃 ✈️ pic.twitter.com/Mj9bnuWoSy — The FAA ✈️ (@FAANews) November 13, 2023

The TSA expects to screen 2.7 million passengers on Wednesday, and trade group Airlines for America says it will be the second-busiest day of the holiday period for flyers.

Wednesday is also the day the most drivers will be hitting the road, according to AAA , citing data from transportation data company Inrix. If you're loading up the car that day, try to get moving before 11 a.m., the group said — the busiest time for auto travelers will be between 2–6 p.m.

"The day before Thanksgiving is notoriously one of the most congested days on our roadways. Travelers should be prepared for long delays, especially in and around major metros," said Bob Pishue, transportation analyst at INRIX. "Knowing when and where congestion will build can help minimize holiday traffic frustrations. We advise drivers to use traffic apps, local DOT notifications and 511 services for real-time updates."

Some areas of New England were hit with snow that will turn to rain, potentially affecting Wednesday morning travelers, CBS Boston reports . Tuesday's rain was causing headaches Wednesday morning in the New York area, as some highways flooded, according to CBS New York . Heavy rain was expected to continue into the morning.

Thanksgiving, Thursday, Nov. 23 and Black Friday, Nov. 24

Thanksgiving itself is one of the easier days to travel over the holiday stretch: Airlines for America pegs it as the lightest travel day of the period for flyers. If you're planning to drive, AAA recommends doing so before 10 a.m. or after 5 p.m., with the busiest time on the roads expected to be between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m.

And while the FAA forecasts more flights on Friday than Saturday — 44,744, nearly as many as Sunday, versus 41,640 on Saturday — Airlines for America projects Saturday will be the fifth busiest of the Thanksgiving stretch.

If you're planning to hit early brick-and-mortar Black Friday sales at your holiday destination, give yourself a break before getting back on the road for home. INRIX says the most congested times to drive will be between 12–4 p.m., and roads will be less crowded before 11 a.m. and after 7 p.m.

Saturday, Nov. 25, Sunday, Nov. 26 and Monday, Nov. 27

Nearly 42,000 flights are scheduled for Saturday and almost 45,000 on Sunday, according to the FAA. Overall, Airlines for America said to expect Sunday to be the busiest travel day, with more than 3.2 million passengers flying. 

That's an expectation shared by the TSA, which anticipates 2.9 million airline passengers will be screened Sunday, Nov. 26, according to the TSA. United Airlines also announced Sunday will be one of the company's busiest travel days since before the pandemic. More than 517,000 people are expected to fly on a United flight that day, according to a news release from the company, 60,000 more than last year.

While data company Cirium projects Sunday to be the biggest travel day of the year, passengers will still be making their way on Monday — according to AAA, "While Sunday is typically the busiest day to return home, AAA data shows Monday is also a popular day to fly back after Thanksgiving."

American Airlines said Sunday will be its busiest travel day and Monday the second busiest with 6,100 and 6,000 departures, respectively. Delta said it expects peak travel days over the period will include Sunday and Monday, and Airlines for America said the two days will be the first and third busiest, respectively, for air travel during the Thanksgiving travel period.

And if you're hauling dinner supplies to Thanksgiving or leftovers home afterward , the TSA said to be prepared for likely additional screening if you have food in your carry-on and know what needs to go in a checked bag instead.

"If you can spill it, spread it, spray it, pump it or pour it, and it's larger than 3.4 ounces, then it should go in a checked bag," the TSA said on its website. "If you need to keep items cold during your trip, ice packs are permissible, but they must be frozen solid and not melted when they go through security screening."

Pie, turkey and stuffing can be carried on, the TSA noted, but cranberry sauce, gravy and wine have to be checked. And if you are carrying on, the agency recommends packing them so they're easy to take out of your bag and putting them in a bin for screening when it's your turn at the checkpoint.

• Transportation Security Administration
• Thanksgiving

Allison Elyse Gualtieri is a Senior News Editor for CBSNews.com, working on a wide variety of subjects including crime, longer-form features and feel-good news. She previously worked for the Washington Examiner and U.S. News and World Report, among other outlets.

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Thanksgiving travel: The best and worst times to drive to avoid traffic

Despite record-high gas prices , drivers should prepare for hectic roads this Thanksgiving. 

As typical with Thanksgiving, most travelers will be driving to their destination, causing typical holiday traffic. After missing past holidays because of the COVID-19 pandemic, experts said, people are more than ready to see their friends and family.

"Drivers can anticipate more traffic than normal around Thanksgiving, especially the Wednesday before the holiday, where commute traffic mixes with people trying to get out of town," Bob Pishue, transportation analyst for INRIX, told USA TODAY.

For those who are traveling by car for Thanksgiving, here's what to know.

Flying with food for Thanksgiving?  What TSA says you can and can't put in a carry-on

Driving for Thanksgiving?   Here are 16 road trip essentials for a better ride

When is the worst time to leave for Thanksgiving weekend?

As usual, the worst traffic will be on Wednesday and Thanksgiving itself, according to recent data by AAA and INRIX . On Wednesday, traffic will peak between 11 a.m. and 8 p.m., as well as from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Thursday as people prepare for dinner. 

When returning home over the weekend from Friday to Sunday, peak traffic times will be 4 p,m. to 8 p.m. 

When is the best time to leave for Thanksgiving weekend?

The key to avoiding heavy traffic will be to plan your drive accordingly. According to Google Maps data from last year, the best time to start your Thanksgiving drive is Monday after 8 p.m. 

Otherwise, drivers should try to be on the road by early Wednesday, before 8 a.m., and Thursday before 11 a.m.

Plan your drive home for the morning or after 8 p.m. on Friday, Saturday or Sunday, according to INRIX. 

Worst travel times in major US cities

Traffic in several U.S. cities could reach "more than double normal delays" over Thanksgiving weekend. Expect the busiest highways in Atlanta, Chicago, New York City and Los Angeles. 

• Worst corridor: I-85 South; Clairmont Rd to MLK Jr Dr
• Worst day: Wednesday
• Worst time: 1:30-3:30 p.m.
• Peak travel time increase: 105%
• Worst corridor: I-290 West, Morgan Street to Wolf Road
• Worst time: 3-5 p.m.
• Peak travel time increase: 99%

Los Angeles

• Worst corridor: I-5 South, Colorado Street to Florence Avenue
• Worst time: 5:30-7:30 p.m.
• Peak travel time increase: 144%
• Worst corridor: I-278 South, I-495 to 6th Ave
• Worst time: 2:45-4:45 p.m.
• Peak travel time increase: 158%

Protect Your Trip »

30 perfect thanksgiving vacations.

Trade holiday headaches for a more relaxing break.

(Getty Images) |

Escape the holiday hoopla, and be grateful for a far-from-home getaway.

Ah, Thanksgiving. Pumpkin pie, roasted turkey, football games and time with friends and family are top draws for celebrating the time-honored holiday at home. But if the prospect of navigating crowded airport terminals and bumper-to-bumper traffic to spend time with extended family and engaging in contentious political discussions (or cooking the bird and all the trimmings) has you pining for an alternative escape, fret not. With some help from seasoned travel pros, we've pinpointed unexpected places to spend a stress-free Thanksgiving. So ditch the turkey, gravy and green bean casserole for a sunny locale, urban retreat or snowy getaway over the long weekend.

Budapest, Hungary

For deal-chasers, "Europe is the place to go over Thanksgiving," says Wendy Perrin, founder and editor of travel-planning site WendyPerrin.com. Autumn marks a low season, yet the weather is still comfortable and rates are relatively less expensive compared to spring and summer. And in Budapest , you can admire striking architecture, soak in heated thermal baths and embrace European charm and Hungarian culinary specialties at charming cafes around Castle Hill. Best of all, in Budapest, you can start your holiday shopping early at brightly lit Christmas markets. Pick up a few gifts and admire the dazzling light displays at the Christmas Fair at Basilica (beginning on Black Friday), and the Christmas Market on Vorosmarty Square.

Park City, Utah

If you're longing for a winter wonderland, consider forgoing apple pie this Thanksgiving for some quality time on the slopes and around a roaring fire in Park City's snow-globe-like setting. Over the holiday weekend, there are plenty of festive, kid-friendly traditions at top resorts in the area, from cookie decorating to tree-lighting ceremonies. And with ski season beginning on Wednesday, Nov. 22, powder seekers can tackle well-groomed trails at Park City Mountain Resort before checking out the charming shops and eateries in Canyons Village and strolling along Main Street. Thrill-seekers can also enjoy exhilarating bends and curves on a toboggan-style bobsled ride at Utah Olympic Park.

Itching for a warm-weather escape? If you're looking for a mix of adventure and relaxation – from wildlife-viewing to an adrenaline-pumping zip line above Monteverde's Cloud Rainforest to lounging in a hammock beneath swaying palms – Costa Rica is an ideal escape. While you'll be visiting at the tail end of rainy season, you can take advantage of a few off-season benefits. Aside from fewer tourist crowds and verdant landscapes, you can also secure discounted lodging rates and flights. Plus, you can swap stuffing and mashed potatoes for fresh fruit and morning yoga sessions, and embrace Costa Rica's "pura vida" (pure life) philosophy with wellness-minded activities and nutritious cuisine.

Whether you want to lounge on golden sands, hike along the Blue Mountains or climb the legendary Dunn's River Falls waterfall, there are plenty of ways to embrace Jamaica's picturesque Caribbean scenery and laid-back vibes. "Hurricane season officially ends November 30, so traveling on or before Thanksgiving means you'll be catching the final low rates of the Caribbean's shoulder season before the snowbirds arrive," says Lindsey Olander, editor at travel site Jetsetter.com. Even better, in November and December, temperatures hover in the 70s and mid-80s, and you can secure discounted resort rates. "For sun-seekers, I'd recommend Jamaica in November, which was (thankfully) spared from recent hurricanes," Olander adds.

Quebec City

If you can't make it to France this fall, you can still enjoy a European-inspired setting and plenty of charm in Quebec City , Perrin says. Francophiles and foodies alike can delight in French-inspired gastronomy at top dining institutions. Plus, the centuries-old structures and quaint cobblestone streets and bistros add to the city's enchanting atmosphere. History buffs can check out Battlefields Park, the Citadel and the Notre-Dame Basilica, while nature lovers can stroll along the serene Terrasse Dufferin. And although temperatures dip into the 30s and 50s at this time of year, you can still admire brilliant maple trees and seize upon shoulder-season discounts.

Asheville, North Carolina

While Asheville may conjure images of microbreweries and the awe-inspiring Blue Ridge Parkway, there's much more to experience over Thanksgiving. Along with temperatures hovering in the mid-50s and 70s, "you've got the fall foliage," Perrin says, with peak leaf-peeping opportunities in early November. Plus, there's the 8,000-acre, decked-out Biltmore Estate, which has a unique history and elaborate holiday displays. Perrin suggests checking out the dazzling wreaths, lights and decorated evergreens at the annual Christmas at Biltmore Daytime Celebration. What's more, you can check out the intricate winning entries from a national gingerbread competition at the Omni Grove Park Inn, Perrin adds.

For a winning mix of culture, history and modern allures, set your sights on Amsterdam for the holiday weekend. You can brush up on the past at the Leiden American Pilgrim Museum Foundation in Leiden, Holland, located near the Dutch capital. After getting a history lesson, visit world-class museums throughout Amsterdam, from the Van Gogh Museum to the Anne Frank House. If you don't mind chilly temperatures in the 40s, November also marks an enticing time to visit, given reduced crowds and plenty of flight and accommodation deals. Make the most of your trip by enjoying a canal-lined stroll and carving out some time to unwind in Vondelpark.

The Big Island, Hawaii

"Hawaii is usually a really great deal in the fall," Perrin says. You can spend your days trekking through tropical rainforests, lounging on black sands at Punaluu Beach, exploring state parks and hiking captivating volcanoes. Catching sight of the fiery lava at Hawaii Volcanoes National Park is a must, as is checking out a quintessential luau, snorkeling and admiring the views from Mauna Kea. With daytime temperatures in the high 60s to low 80s and low-priced accommodations (including resorts with kid-friendly amenities), November marks an ideal time to visit. Even better, you can feast on traditional Thanksgiving culinary offerings at resorts throughout the island.

Whistler, Canada

Whether you want to enjoy the early ski season – along with enticing gear and accommodation deals as well as faster lift lines – or you're looking to embrace Whistler 's still-pleasant temperatures in the 40s and 50s, you won't mind forgoing turkey for days on the slopes. The official ski season kicks off Nov. 23, and since Thanksgiving in Canada takes place in October, you won't have to worry about battling heavy crowds. Check out the charming pedestrian-only Village Stroll in Whistler Village, and pop into galleries, shops and restaurants to charge up for more adventurous cold-weather activities. When you're ready to get your heart racing, enjoy snowboarding, skiing, snowshoeing and other active pursuits.

The Cotswolds, England

"The Cotswolds region in south-central England is beautiful any time of year, but arguably it's most picturesque in the fall, when the ivy blanketing its tiny towns and cottages turns brilliant red and yellow hues, and residents begin throwing logs in their stone fireplaces," Olander says. You won't miss home as you explore the area's striking walking trails, like the 102-mile long Cotswold Way National Trail, which weaves past beautiful hills, quaint villages and storied churches. "Restaurants here may not serve your family’s traditional Thanksgiving spread, but their home-cooked, often farm-to-table dishes hit the spot," Olander adds. What's more, there are plenty of affordable inns to pick from, making it easy to keep your budget intact.

Cape Cod, Massachusetts

Picture the Cape, and serene sands, clam shacks and shingled cottages likely come to mind. But while the warmer months offer an enticing beach break for East Coasters, the shoulder season offers its own draws: reduced crowds and attractive packages. If you can brave the crisp temperatures, with daytime highs in the 40s and 50s, you can enjoy a historic setting and traditional Thanksgiving meal, Perrin says. The peak foliage season will have wrapped up, but you can embrace peaceful surroundings. Immerse yourself in nature on one of the Cape's scenic trails along the Cape Cod National Seashore before refueling with clam chowder and unwinding in a budget-friendly bed-and-breakfast or inn.

Scottsdale, Arizona

For a warm-weather holiday break with desert scenery, high-end resorts and postcard-worthy landscapes, consider Scottsdale. You can indulge at a decadent spa (think: prickly pear and honey-infused body treatments), kick back in a poolside cabana or commune with nature and enjoy mountain biking and hiking at the McDowell Sonoran Preserve. For more recreation, check out the nearby Camelback Mountain. After getting your adrenaline fix, refuel with a memorable meal at an acclaimed restaurant such as Virtù or Roaring Fork. Best of all, in late November, you'll avoid summer's scorching triple-digit temperatures and likely land a reasonably priced rate at a top resort before the peak winter season.

"A trip to Iceland might not seem so practical in November, but if you don't mind being a bit cold, it's a perfect place to get away," Olander says. The low season ushers in dwindling crowds, discounted accommodation rates and the opportunity to explore Iceland's can't-miss cold-weather attractions, she explains. Highlights include soaking in the otherworldly Blue Lagoon, exploring icy glaciers and bar-hopping in Reykjavik. "And what could be more magical than catching the northern lights?" she adds, emphasizing that the winter months mark an ideal time to catch the natural phenomenon, as the skies are darkest and clearest. For more adventure, join the Golden Circle tour.

Colonial Williamsburg, Virginia

Make the pilgrimage to Colonial Williamsburg, and you'll feel like you've stepped back in time, Perrin says. Learn about the country's revolutionary heritage with the "Come, Ye Thankful People Come" event at the Hennage Auditorium, when Cliff Williams and John Turner re-enactors recite Thanksgiving songs and hymns the Wednesday before Thanksgiving. If you have a sweet tooth, don't forget to pick up a pecan, apple, pumpkin, rum cream or apple-cranberry pie at Raleigh Tavern Bakery. For more of a history lesson, make your way to Jamestown to delight in Foods and Feasts of Colonial Virginia – a three-day extravaganza that recounts how traditional Revolution-era meals were prepped and other historical details.

Charleston, South Carolina

For a fun holiday weekend, flee to Charleston for an old-fashioned, all-American atmosphere, Perrin says. Temperatures hover in the 60s and 70s, ideal conditions for exploring can't-miss attractions and antebellum architecture throughout the city, from the Nathaniel Russell House to Magnolia Plantation & Gardens. Plus, you can delight in a memorable Thanksgiving meal at one of the city's acclaimed restaurants, she adds. When you're not enjoying a Spanish moss-canopied stroll or taking a horse-drawn carriage in the Historic District, you can pop into charming boutiques along King Street. Best of all, there are plenty of holiday happenings, including the annual Holiday Festival of Lights at James Island County Park and the Turkey Day Run & Gobble Wobble 5K.

New Orleans

The Big Easy delivers more than jazz, blues, beignets, Sazeracs and stellar po'boys. You can join the fray in the French Quarter before feasting on a Cajun-inspired turkey day staple: turducken (a turkey stuffed with chicken and duck), typically paired with cornbread and gravy. For more holiday festivities, attend the Bayou Classic Thanksgiving Day Parade on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. And when you need a respite, meander through the Garden District. Already dreaming of a white Christmas? Admire the dazzling displays during the annual Celebration in the Oaks in City Park, when bright lights adorn hundreds of oaks throughout the park, beginning Nov. 24.

Gorgeous weather year-round makes San Diego an alluring beach break at any time, Perrin says, but in autumn, tourist crowds and accommodation rates drop. And while the Southern Californian retreat may be more renowned as a microbrewery mecca and low-key surf town, it's easy to pull off a family-friendly holiday getaway – complete with beachside lounging, hiking at Torrey Pines and exploring Balboa Park – without busting your budget. For those looking to get into the Thanksgiving spirit, there are a variety of turkey trot 5K races and feasts throughout the city. At the famous Hotel del Coronado, for example, you can enjoy a pre-fixe Thanksgiving meal with live music.

Florence, Italy

With low-season crowds (and prices), Europe's cultural meccas beckon to those looking for a world-class weekend getaway over the holiday, Perrin says. In Florence, you can check out world-renowned art institutions like the Uffizi Gallery without battling swarms of tourists. Plus, you can score tickets to top theater and opera performances. Even better, when you're not admiring iconic art, you can escape to the enchanting hills of Tuscany, leisurely sip distinguished bottles of Chianti and soak in the city's sophisticated restaurant and shopping scenes. And though you can expect chillier temperatures in the 40s and 50s, if you don't mind the crisp weather, you'll be rewarded with off-season hotel rates and shorter attraction lines.

Savannah, Georgia

With antebellum architecture, horse-drawn carriages, Spanish moss-lined streets and historical treasures, Savannah delivers on Southern charm. And in mid-November, you can take advantage of shoulder-season discounts, pleasant temperatures in the 50s to 70s and even a twinkling tree-lighting ceremony followed by the Boat Parade of Lights on the Saturday after Thanksgiving. Take in more of the city's genteel charms on Black Friday as you explore the City Market, check out River Street or people-watch in photogenic Forsyth Park in the Historic District. What's more, over the long weekend, you can count on mouthwatering low country cuisine, from shrimp and grits at Cotton & Rye to biscuit buns and scones at Back in the Day Bakery.

Joshua Tree National Park, California

If you're itching to embrace the great outdoors over the holiday break, Joshua Tree National Park packs plenty of dry air, desert scenery and spectacular hikes, Perrin says. For postcard-worthy views, make your way to Keys View lookout. Fuss-free, frugal-minded vacationers seeking cost-effective accommodations may consider an Airstream (via Airbnb) at Kate's Lazy Desert near the park entrance, while campers can stake out a spot at one of the 44 sites at Hidden Valley Campground, which offers easy access to top trails. Best of all, the park's striking desert landscapes and two distinct ecosystems – the Colorado and the Mojave – are 140 miles west of Los Angeles. Skip shopping on Black Friday to join a ranger-led program or take a hike.

Getty Images | Aurora Open

Santa Barbara, California

Santa Barbara's consistently pleasant temperatures in the mid-50s and upper 60s, reduced nightly room rates and mix of fashionable boutiques and acclaimed restaurants appeal to those craving an escape-it-all getaway far from the holiday stress back home. Grape-seekers can enjoy leisurely wine tastings and gallery-hopping at the Funk Zone, while shoppers stroll along State Street to stock up on holiday presents. When you're not attending a yoga class, you can enjoy strolls along the harbor in the dubbed "American Riviera" before delighting in a farm-to-table meal at an acclaimed dining institution such as Brophy Bros, The Lark or Opal Restaurant & Bar.

(Getty Images | Moment RF)

Whether you want to explore ornate palaces, catch an opera or peruse an elaborate Christmas market, Austria's cosmopolitan capital is a great choice for the holiday weekend, Perrin says. After all, you won't miss stuffing or Black Friday shopping as you savor roasted chestnuts, seasonal delights and handcrafted goods beneath twinkling lights at the Viennese Christmas Market outside City Hall. A number of Christmas markets and cultural happenings take place throughout Thanksgiving weekend, Perrin adds. The Viennnese Christmas market begins on Nov. 18, and the Christmas Village Belvedere Palace begins on Nov. 24. And while temperatures dip, if you can brave the 30- and 40-degree temperatures, you can score reasonably priced accommodations in November.

Lisbon, Portugal

While Lisbon lures travelers with its bargain-friendly rates and affordable attractions year-round, in fall you can embrace thinning crowds and comfortable temperatures lingering in the 50s and 70s through the end of November. Visit Alfalma to admire in the city's elaborate tile-laden sidewalks. Next, make the pilgrimage to postcard-worthy Sintra to admire picturesque villas and palaces along the hilly cobblestone streets. When you're ready to refuel, savor an authentic Portuguese meal followed by a pasteis de nata – a sweet custard pastry and an enticing alternative to pumpkin pie. At the end of the day, retire to one of Lisbon's affordable boutique hotels or take in iconic fado music in the Alfalma district.

Newport, Rhode Island

For an idyllic New England getaway with coastal scenery and fall colors, plan your escape to Newport. While temperatures can dip into the 30s, you can take advantage of thinning tourist crowds and plenty of pampering. At the enchanting Castle Hill Inn, there's an elaborate Thanksgiving spread – complete with littleneck clams, turkey and pie. Plus, with the Thanksgiving Package promotion, you can enjoy a two-night stay, a Thanksgiving feast, breakfast and afternoon tea – along with a half bottle of Cabernet – at a fixed rate. For more activity, check out the shops along Thames Street and take a brisk stroll along the Cliff Walk trail before warming up by a crackling fire at The Chanler.

Miami Beach

Celebrate the long weekend with some quality time catching up on R & R by the pool, the beach or at top shopping meccas on a sunny escape to Miami Beach. Thanks to swift recovery efforts following Hurricane Irma, major hotels, resorts, museums, nightlife venues and shops are open for business. Whether you want to check out striking art deco buildings on Ocean Drive, rent a beach chair on South Beach or simply stay put in a cabana at your hotel, there are plenty of ways to unwind and dodge the holiday routine (and countless hours of meal prep). What's more, you can embrace an American feast and celebrate the holiday at acclaimed restaurants without lifting a finger. At StripSteak by Michael Mina at Fontainebleau Miami Beach, for example, you can enjoy holiday staples such as glazed carrots and roasted turkey.

Richmond, Virginia

With its storied sites, Southern charm and burgeoning culinary scene, Richmond is an enticing Thanksgiving escape for foodies, culture vultures, history lovers and outdoorsy types alike. Along with trendy art- and design-centric hotels like the Quirk Hotel, there are plenty of opportunities to embrace the great outdoors. Cross the James River to Belle Isle for a memorable bike ride or picnic, or enjoy blazing fall colors in Shenandoah National Park (about 90 miles west of Richmond off Interstate 64). And if you opt for a history-filled vacation, get a sense of Richmond's genteel attractions like the Jefferson Hotel and the Valentine Museum. When you're ready to refuel, enjoy traditional Southern cuisine – including fried chicken and biscuits with sausage gravy – at The Roosevelt.

Portland, Maine

For a mix of requisite New England charm and history, it's hard to match Portland. You can admire the area's craggy coastlines, Victorian homes and picturesque Portland Head Light before retracing pilgrims' footsteps and heading to Popham Colony, an early American settlement that some believe was formed in 1607, before Plymouth Rock in 1620. Set along the Kennebunk River, approximately 25 miles northeast of Portland, the colony features a boulder with the sign "Popham Rock." For modern allures, base yourself in Portland and retreat to the Press Hotel before enjoying a leisurely meal. The Holy Donut and the Highroller Lobster Co. are a couple of must-visit eateries. Cap off your feast with a pub crawl in the East Bayside neighborhood.

Pink-hued sands, world-renowned golf courses and captivating oceanfront scenery offer the perfect antidote to the holiday grind. And while the weather in this mid-Atlantic island will be chillier at this time of year, with daytime temperatures hovering in the 60s and 70s, you'll be rewarded with reduced accommodation rates. Whether you want to explore unspoiled coral reefs, hit the links at Port Royal Golf Course or enjoy leisurely strolls in historic St. George – a UNESCO World Heritage Site – you'll be grateful for some time in the sun rather than making the pilgrimage to your in-laws' house. What's more, you can enjoy duty-free shopping or pampering at the spa before savoring a traditional rum-infused cocktail and delicious Bermudian culinary specialties (sampling traditional fish chowder is a must).

In November, London draws visitors with its festive Christmas markets, mild daytime temperatures, colorful autumn foliage and enticing flight and hotel deals ahead of the peak winter tourist season. If you're a history buff, you can catch the acclaimed hit musical "Hamilton" at Victoria Palace Theatre throughout November. What's more, culture seekers can explore can't-miss institutions such as the National Gallery, Westminster Abbey and Buckingham Palace. For more time outdoors, explore lively Borough Market or meander to Notting Hill's Portobello Road Market to pick up vintage gifts and classic English antiques. For more world-class shopping, head to Oxford Street. And if you're feeling nostalgic for a traditional Thanksgiving feast, you'll find quintessential American trimmings like pumpkin pie and roasted turkey at top restaurants throughout the city.

Annapolis, Maryland

With striking coastal scenery along the Chesapeake Bay, delicious blue crabs and crisp autumn air, Annapolis offers a refreshing change of scenery. Admire the colonial architecture and cobblestone streets in Historic Annapolis before grabbing a bite at one of the area's fine dining establishments (Cantler's Riverside Inn, O'Learys Seafood Restaurant and Chick & Ruth's Delly are longstanding crowd-pleasers). And on Black Friday, after you stroll along the city's charming brick streets, peruse the boutique shops and galleries along Main Street in Historic Annapolis to pick up a few holiday gifts. Afterward, visit Dock Street in Ego Alley to people-watch on a bench, grab a bite to eat and admire the sailboats bobbing in the water.

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Thanksgiving is one of the busiest times to travel in America, but it doesn't have to be the most nightmarish. Although it's true that the holiday is known to drive up plane ticket prices and turn airports across the U.S. downright chaotic, the experience of sharing a feast with family — or escaping family, if that's more your style — is priceless. This season, let us help plan a stress-free weekend away with packing tips, hotel deals, air travel updates, handy app recommendations, and more.

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35 Awesome Things To Do In DC Over Thanksgiving

The nation’s capital comes alive for the holidays, and it all starts with Thanksgiving in Washington, D.C.

Updated for 2023

It starts with the White House’s annual Pardoning of the Thanksgiving Turkey and it’s all uphill from there. Washington, D.C. embraces the holiday season wholeheartedly and the entire district comes together with lights and decorations, holiday markets, parades, and more.

Join in on the merriment while you already have family and friends gathered for Thanksgiving! There are more things to do in DC on Thanksgiving than you think.

Dig into a Thanksgiving Dinner You Don’t Have to Make

Whether you want to cook your Thanksgiving meal for friends and family, order a to-go dinner, or you just want a Michelin-star chef to cook your holiday meal, there are plenty of restaurants in D.C. serving Thanksgiving this year.

Here’s our full list of Thanksgiving restaurants in D.C.

Get into the Washington Christmas Spirit

Some of you may think that it’s too early, but really, when isn’t there a right time for Christmas lights and holiday music?

• Address: 3001 Connecticut Ave NW, Washington, DC 20008 | Website

The National Zoo in Washington, D.C. has been putting on their annual Zoo Lights event for years now! It’s a family favorite because you can combine seeing some of your favorite furry friends in the day and stick around to view the LED animated light displays at night.

The zoo is illuminated with over 500,000 lights, LED animal displays, two laser shows, and holiday music! There are even special attractions, rides, and live performances by different bands and choirs. The best part? The entire experience is free.

Wunter Garten

• Address: 1101 First St NE, Washington, DC 20002 | Website

Inspired by the beer gardens of Germany, Winter Garden is a charming beer garden with a large selection of beers. It’s a great spot for friends and family to gather during Thanksgiving weekend and throw back a few!

They transform in the winter to include cabanas and tents, fire puts, board games, DJs, and live entertainment. They have tons of signature events including their night of onesies and s’mores.

Holiday Markets & Pop-Ups

Seasonal markets and pop-ups always put me in the holiday mood, probably because of their decor and the addition of mulled wines. There are a couple in and around Washington, D.C. with unique independent vendors, local small businesses, arts and crafts, food and drink, and more.

Some popular ones are:

Downtown Holiday Market

• Address: F St NW &, 8th St NW, Washington, DC 20004 | Website

This mini holiday village pops up every year and the streets are lined with vendors selling food, drink, art, jewelry, and more.

Holiday Market at Union Market (Dock 5)

Address: 1309 5th St NE, Washington, DC 20002 | Website

You’re sure to walk away with something from one of the many designers selling one-of-a-kind ornaments and gifts.

Holiday Marketplace at DC Brau

• Address: 3178 Bladensburg Rd NE Suite B, Washington, DC 20018 | Website

Vendors selling everything from D.C.’s own Mumbo Sauce to locally made jewelry. There are also lots of snacks, food trucks, and of course, beer.

Montgomery County Thanksgiving Parade

• Address: 11900 Market St, Reston, VA 20190

The Montgomery County Thanksgiving Parade, better known as the Silver Spring Thanksgiving Parade, is the ONLY Thanksgiving parade in D.C. and the metro area. Grab a slice of sidewalk and a blanket, and get ready to cheer in the holiday season.

Read our full guide to Maryland’s Silver Spring Thanksgiving Parade !

Give back to the community.

Thanksgiving is the perfect time to reflect on your blessings and show thanks outward. Lend a hand at these institutions that give back to the community all year long.

Clean up Rock Creek Park

• Address: 1755 S St NW, Washington, DC 20009

Blue Planet DC has many similar events scheduled throughout the year but also has an annual morning cleanup post-Thanksgiving. Wear comfortable clothes, grab your gloves and a couple of trash bags, and help keep the neighborhood clean!

Volunteer at a Soup Kitchen

There are several charitable organizations where you can help prepare and serve holiday meals in DC. Some popular local charities you can reach out to are:

• DC Central Kitchen
• Bright Beginnings
• Food and Friends
• So Others Might Eat
• Food For All DC

Work off those extra calories by getting active post-Thanksgiving! It’s the perfect time to embrace seasonal activities like outdoor ice skating and the Turkey Trot.

Ice Skating at Gaylord National

• Address: 201 Waterfront Street, National Harbor, Maryland 20745 USA | Website

Gaylord National knows about the holidays! They have so many classic holiday activities you and your family could participate in like building snowmen, sledding, decorating gingerbread houses, watching Christmas plays, reading favorites with Mrs. Claus, and of course, ice skating!

Find all of the best spots for ice skating in Washington, D.C

Yes, it’s a little cold this time of the year but once you start pedaling around the Tidal Basin, you warm up quickly! It’s a great time to hop on a bike and explore the National Mall and its surroundings; the weather is crisp, the views are beautiful, and you can work off Thanksgiving Dinner!

There are tons of spots to rent a bicycle there so don’t worry if you’re from out of town or don’t feel like packing up your own.

Turkey Trot

There are lots of different kinds of trots, runs, and walks hosted around Thanksgiving weekend. Not only can you get active, but you’ll be able to get sponsors and raise money for a good cause! Here are a couple that I like to get involved with:

• Arlington Turkey Trot
• Alexandria Turkey Trot
• Prince Williams Turkey Trot
• Trot for Hunger
• Cranberry Crawl DC
• Turkey Chase Bethesda
• Gingerbread Man Mile

U.S. Botanic Gardens

Take a walk while still staying warm in the U.S. Botanic Gardens greenhouse. Their annual Season’s Greetings: America’s Gardens holiday show has wonderful displays of greenery, live seasonal music, replicas of some of the most famous buildings and monuments in DC, and even an extensive operating model train exhibit.

Attend a Concert or Catch a Play at a D.C. Theater

Unwind after a hectic time of preparing a meal and making sure everyone in the family stays amicable with a concert or play.

The Kennedy Center Opera House

Their holiday season lineup is incomparable and past performances include The Nutcracker; is the holiday season even complete without a rendition of Dance of the Sugar Plum Fairy?

The Hamilton

From a Charlie Brown Christmas to live, intimate performances by local artists, you’ll find it all at The Hamilton.

DAR Constitution Hall

DAR Constitution Hall has hosted their annual Christmas Open House for years and it’s a wonderful time to join in the holiday festivities and witness performances by local choirs and artists.

Embrace the Black Friday Sales in Washington DC

Black Friday starts on Thanksgiving night and lasts throughout the weekend in most places! Get started with your Christmas shopping instead of waiting till the last minute! Here are a couple of malls and shopping centers in DC where you can get a bargain on Thanksgiving weekend.

• Potomac Mills Mall
• Tanger Outlets at National Harbor
• CityCenter DC
• Washington Square
• Pentagon City Mall

Additional reporting by Shahnaz Hossain

Frequently Asked Questions about Thanksgiving in D.C. (FAQ)

What are some popular restaurants in washington, d.c., for thanksgiving dinner a1.

Washington, D.C., offers a variety of restaurants that serve special Thanksgiving meals. Some popular options include the Old Ebbitt Grill, Founding Farmers, and the Tabard Inn. Check our list of recommended Thanksgiving dinner spots for more choices, especially if you’re spending Thanksgiving in Washington DC with teens .

Are there any Thanksgiving parades or events in Washington, D.C.?

Yes, there are Thanksgiving events in the D.C. area, including the Silver Spring Thanksgiving Parade , the only Thanksgiving parade in Washington, D.C. Additionally, many neighborhoods host their own parades and holiday festivities.

Can I visit museums or attractions in Washington, D.C., on Thanksgiving Day?

Some museums and attractions in D.C. are open on Thanksgiving Day, while others may have limited hours or be closed. The Smithsonian museums, for example, are usually open.

What are some fun family activities for Thanksgiving in Washington, D.C.?

Washington, D.C., offers various family-friendly activities for Thanksgiving, such as ice skating at the National Gallery of Art Sculpture Garden, visiting the National Zoo, or taking a festive holiday tour. Explore our family activities list for more ideas.

Where can I find the best Thanksgiving deals and discounts for shopping in D.C.?

Thanksgiving weekend is a great time for shopping, with Black Friday and Cyber Monday deals. Major shopping areas in Washington, D.C., include Georgetown, Union Station, and CityCenterDC, as well as outlet malls outside of the District in Maryland and Virginia.

Are there any special Thanksgiving traditions or cultural events in D.C.?

Washington, D.C., is known for its diverse culture and traditions. You can explore cultural events, such as Ballet West:  The Nutcracker at the Kennedy Center.

How do I get around Washington, D.C., on Thanksgiving Day?

The public transportation system in D.C., including the Metro, often operates on a holiday schedule on Thanksgiving Day. It’s a good idea to check the specific schedules and consider using ride-sharing services or walking to get around.

Where can I find information on volunteering opportunities in Washington, D.C., during Thanksgiving?

If you’re interested in volunteering on Thanksgiving, there are many organizations and charities in D.C. that welcome volunteers during the holiday season.

The post 35 Awesome Things To Do In DC Over Thanksgiving appeared first on dctravelmag.com .

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TSA readies for busiest Labor Day travel period on record, provides top travel tips to help airline passengers prepare

WASHINGTON — The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is prepared to screen more than 17 million people during what is expected to be the busiest Labor Day travel period on record, which will run Thursday, August 29 through Wednesday, September 4. The peak travel day is projected to be August 30, when TSA expects to screen 2.86 million people.

Air travel volumes this summer are the highest the agency has seen in its history. The agency expects passenger volumes to be 8.5 percent higher than last year during this time, and has already screened 239.8 million people since Memorial Day weekend, which is an average of  2.7 million per day. The top ten busiest travel days in the agency’s history have all occurred this year since May 2024. The agency reached a new milestone on July 7, when Transportation Security Officers (TSOs) screened more than 3 million people in a single day.

“People are traveling more than ever this summer and TSA along with our airline and airport partners stand ready to close the busiest summer travel period on record during this upcoming Labor Day weekend,” said TSA Administrator David Pekoske. “I commend our vigilant workforce, from our TSOs on the front lines at airport security checkpoints across the country to those behind the scenes, working hard to keep the transportation system secure—especially as we continue to roll out new checkpoint technology that improves security effectiveness, efficiency, and the passenger experience.”

TSA is staffed to meet its wait time standards, which are 10 minutes and under in TSA PreCheck® lanes and 30 minutes and under in standard screening lanes. With this increase in travel volumes, TSA recommends airline passengers travel with ease by enrolling in the TSA PreCheck Trusted Traveler Program , where members do not need to remove shoes, belts, 3-1-1 liquids, laptops, food items, and light jackets at the checkpoint. TSA PreCheck members are reminded to make sure their Known Traveler Number (KTN) is in their airline reservation so it appears on their boarding pass.

REAL ID will go into effect in less than nine months, starting May 7, 2025. Airline passengers will soon need a REAL ID-compliant form of identification when flying. If the driver’s license is not REAL ID-compliant, they must have another form of acceptable identification, such as a U.S. passport. REAL ID driver’s licenses and identification cards have a small star in the upper right corner indicating they meet federal regulations that establish minimum security standards.

Check out TSA’s top travel tips for an efficient and successful trip through security.

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Russian Offensive Campaign Assessment, August 21, 2024

Angelica Evans, Karolina Hird, Nicole Wolkov, Kateryna Stepanenko, and George Barros

August 21, 2024, 8:40pm ET

Click here to see ISW’s interactive map of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. This map is updated daily alongside the static maps present in this report.

Click here to see ISW’s 3D control of terrain topographic map of Ukraine. Use of a computer (not a mobile device) is strongly recommended for using this data-heavy tool.

Click here to access ISW’s archive of interactive time-lapse maps of the Russian invasion of Ukraine. These maps complement the static control-of-terrain map that ISW produces daily by showing a dynamic frontline. ISW will update this time-lapse map archive monthly.

Note: The data cut-off for this product was 1pm ET on August 21. ISW will cover subsequent reports in the August 22 Russian Offensive Campaign Assessment.

The Kremlin appears to have launched an intricate messaging campaign aimed at justifying to its domestic audience why Russia is prioritizing maintaining the initiative in eastern Ukraine over immediately expelling Ukrainian forces from Kursk Oblast. Russian government sources close to the Russian Presidential Administration told Russian independent outlet Meduza that the Kremlin is actively trying to condition Russian society to accept the limited Ukrainian presence in Kursk Oblast as a “new normal” and downplay the significance of the incursion. [1] The sources noted that the Kremlin will use propaganda to encourage Russians to wait for Russian forces to retake these territories after an “inevitable” Ukrainian defeat in eastern Ukraine. The sources also added that the Kremlin is redirecting Russians’ concerns over Kursk Oblast by preoccupying domestic society with humanitarian assistance drives to assist the affected residents of Kursk Oblast and noted that the Kremlin decided against canceling the upcoming Kursk Oblast gubernatorial elections scheduled for September to minimize panic in the region. [2] The Russian Central Election Commission, however, decided to postpone local elections in the seven raions in Kursk Oblast that are impacted by the Ukrainian incursion due to security risks, and the Kremlin may have decided to maintain gubernatorial elections as scheduled to replace the interim Kursk Oblast Governor Alexei Smirnov, who has overseen much of the local Russian response to the incursion. [3] Meduza also highlighted Russian state media’s coverage of the incursion, which began increasingly portraying Kursk Oblast and its residents as supporting the Russian war effort in Ukraine, despite encountering some mild wartime disruptions to residents’ ordinary lives. [4] The Kremlin may be also attempting to weaponize state media's coverage of its months-long offensive in eastern Ukraine to advance its messaging campaign about the incursion. Russian state TV channels are notably covering Ukraine’s incursion in Kursk Oblast as a limited operation, while actively contrasting it with Russian advances in the Pokrovsk direction, which Russian media is painting as major victories. [5]

The Kremlin may be using this messaging campaign to afford itself time and space to respond to the Ukrainian incursion into Kursk Oblast after achieving its offensive objectives in eastern Ukraine. Russian government sources told Meduza that the Kremlin was initially shocked and worried about Ukraine’s incursion into Kursk Oblast but calmed down within a week because Ukrainian forces’ advances were far from more densely populated regional centers such as Kursk City. [6] Meduza reported that all interviewed officials expressed confidence that battles in Kursk Oblast will continue at their current scale for months, indicating that the Kremlin may not be rushing to repel Ukrainian forces from the region and will instead continue to prioritize its offensive operations in eastern Ukraine. A Ukrainian source in the military-political leadership, on the contrary, told Ukrainian news wire RBC-Ukraine that Putin tasked Russian forces with repelling Ukrainian forces from Kursk Oblast by October 1 without re-deploying forces from key frontlines areas – namely from the Pokrovsk and Toretsk directions. ISW previously assessed that Russian President Vladimir Putin and Russian military command likely view maintaining the theater-wide initiative as a strategic imperative to win the war of attrition against Ukraine and are continuing to prioritize the Russian offensive operations in eastern Ukraine. [7] Putin’s reported October 1 deadline assumes a long time for Russia’s territorial integrity to have been contested given that the incursion began on August 6th. Such a protracted occupation of Russian territory undermines the Kremlin’s longstanding narratives about why Russia is at war in the first place; the Kremlin had been justifying its war in Ukraine as a defensive war that aims to protect Russian sovereignty and territorial integrity. [8] The Kremlin’s relaxed approach to the temporal aspect implies that the Kremlin has decided to prioritize tactical advances in Ukraine over rapidly restoring Russia’s territorial integrity in Kursk, and this apparent decision undermines a series of long-standing narratives about Russian “red lines.”

Putin notably appears to be demanding that Russia defeat Ukraine’s incursion into Kursk Oblast without sacrificing the stability of his regime, deprioritizing the offensive in eastern Ukraine, or firing his incompetent but loyal lieutenants. The results of such a strategy are too early to forecast. Meduza’s sources also noted that the Kremlin also considered the need for a new mobilization wave at the start of the incursion, but that the Russian Cabinet of Ministers and Kremlin-affiliated businessmen immediately opposed general mobilization due to ongoing labor shortages in Russia — although it is unclear whether Kremlin even considered this argument. [9] Meduza’s sources assessed that the Kremlin is much more likely to double down on the use of conscripts in Kursk Oblast, which if true, would mark another example of Putin making unrealistic demands of the Russian military command without providing the command appropriate manpower and resources to achieve its objectives. ISW has repeatedly assessed that Putin has neglected the need to declare general mobilization throughout the course of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine out of concern for his regime’s stability on numerous occasions, and his recent decision to announce a counterterrorism operation in Kursk Oblast (as opposed to declaring war or mobilization) may indicate that he is not prepared to respond to the incursion with mobilization at this time. [10] Meduza’s sources also observed that there are currently no rumors within the Kremlin about the removal of Russian Chief of the General Staff Army General Valery Gerasimov due to his ongoing involvement in the Russian offensive in Donbas or the ongoing crisis in Kursk Oblast. The sources noted that the Kremlin might need to appoint a scapegoat for the incursion in the future but is not currently considering placing Gerasimov in that position. ISW cannot independently verify these reports, but they appear to be consistent with ISW's assessments about the Kremlin's prioritization of the offensive in eastern Ukraine and Putin’s, inability to dynamically adjust objectives, and his aversion to taking risks. [11] The Kremlin’s reported approach to command changes appears to be consistent with Putin’s observed pattern of withholding command changes until he is no longer actively facing a crisis. [12]

Ukrainian forces continued offensive operations throughout the Kursk Oblast salient on August 21 and have made additional marginal advances. Ukraine's Special Operations Forces posted footage on August 21 showing Ukrainian strikes on several pontoon bridges and staging areas along the Seim River in Glushkovsky Raion, west of the current Ukrainian salient in Kursk Oblast. [13] The Ukrainian Special Operations Forces suggested that Ukrainian forces may have used HIMARS in some of the strikes against pontoon bridges, while milbloggers speculated that Ukrainian forces used air-launched small-diameter glide bombs. [14] Geolocated footage published on August 21 shows drone operators of Russia's 155th Naval Infantry Brigade (Pacific Fleet, Eastern Military District [EMD]) striking Ukrainian forces in and around Vishnevka (south of Koreveno and 14km from the international border), confirming that Ukrainian forces have likely advanced into and beyond the settlement. [15] A Russian milblogger claimed that a reinforced platoon-sized Ukrainian element unsuccessfully attacked from Vishnevka towards Komarovka (southwest of Koreveno and 12km from the international border), but that Russian drone strikes and anti-tank guided missile (ATGM) fire stopped Ukrainian forces from establishing positions within Komarovka. [16] Another Russian milblogger claimed that Ukrainian forces conducted a platoon-sized mechanized attack towards Korenevo but were unsuccessful. [17] Additional geolocated footage published on August 21 indicates that Ukrainian forces hold positions in forest areas east of Aleksandrovka (northeast of Koreveno and 33km from the international border). [18] Geolocated footage published on August 21 also shows that elements of the Russian 200th Guards Motorized Rifle Brigade (14th Army Corps, Leningrad Military District [LMD]) hold positions along the 38H-564 road east of Zhuravli (east of Koreveno and 21km from the international border), indicating that Russian forces either recently retook these positions or that Ukrainian forces have not yet closed the small salient along the 38H-564 road near Zhuravli. [19] Russian milbloggers continued to claim that Ukrainian forces are advancing north of Sudzha near Malaya Loknya and are encircling Russian forces in Martynovka (northeast of Sudzha and 19km from the international border). [20] Elements of the Russian 810th Naval Infantry Brigade (Black Sea Fleet) are reportedly facing encirclement in Martynovka, and Russian milbloggers lauded a soldier from the Russian 11th Airborne (VDV) Brigade for allegedly leading conscripts out of an encirclement in an unspecified area in Kursk Oblast, potentially in reference to the Martynovka pocket. [21] Geolocated footage published on August 21 indicates that Ukrainian forces have advanced into southern Russkaya Konopelka (east of Sudzha and 12km from the international border). [22] The Russian 810th Naval Infantry Brigade appears to be deployed particularly sporadically throughout the Kursk Oblast salient — various Russian sources have reported that its elements are operating as far north as the Kauchuk area (30km from the international border) and between Martynovka and Spalnoye (southeast of Sudzha and 45km away from Kauchuk). [23]

Russian President Vladimir Putin visited the Republic of Chechnya for the first time in 13 years on August 20, likely in an effort to shift domestic focus away from the Ukrainian incursion into Kursk Oblast and posture normalcy and stability. Putin met with Chechen Republic Head Ramzan Kadyrov in Grozny, Chechnya, and praised Kadyrov for his socio-economic development programs. [24] Kadyrov claimed that Chechnya has sent 47,000 military personnel to Ukraine since the start of the full-scale invasion, including 19,000 volunteers who trained at the Spetsnaz University in Gudermes, Chechnya. Kadyrov also claimed that Chechnya has "several tens of thousands" of trained and equipped military personnel in reserve. Putin visited Spetsnaz University, which trains military personnel from across Russia and spoke to a group of military commanders, instructors, and volunteers. Putin claimed that all Russians — no matter their ethnicity or religious affiliations — are united by their morals, ethics, love for the Fatherland, respect for elders, respect for Russia's history, and faith in Russia's future. [25] Putin also ostentatiously kissed a Quran to demonstrate his purported respect for the Islamic faith and the people of Chechnya. Putin consistently attempts to portray Russia as a harmonious multi-ethnic and multi-religious country despite growing xenophobia against migrants and ethnic and religious minorities [26] Putin additionally emphasized Russian soldiers' alleged heroism for putting themselves at risk to protect Russia by fighting in Ukraine. [27] Putin also may have intended to use his visit to Chechnya to commend Chechen leaders for dedicating forces to the defensive effort in Kursk Oblast and address concerns about the reportedly significant number of Chechen military personnel that Ukrainian forces have taken as prisoners of war in Kursk Oblast. [28]

Recent US intelligence assessments highlight Ukraine's efforts to develop alternative and asymmetric capabilities in the face of Russian manpower and materiel advantages, as well as Ukraine's continued dependence on Western security assistance. The US Department of Defense (DoD) Inspector General's Office published a series of assessments by the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA) in the DoD's quarterly review of US military assistance to Ukraine on August 15. [29] DIA's assessments largely cohere with trends and phenomena observable in the open source, although it is unclear what conclusions policymakers should draw from DIA's assessments given that some of these assessments assume that certain battlefield conditions are totally static, whereas ISW assesses the same conditions to be in flux.

The DIA assesses that recent US military assistance to Ukraine will "almost certainly" be insufficient in helping Ukraine match or overcome Russia's artillery advantage in Ukraine and the estimated Russian daily fire rate of 10,000 artillery rounds. [30] Ukrainian servicemembers have consistently expressed concern about Ukrainian artillery shortages following significant delays in US aid in Winter 2023–2024 and Spring 2024, and Ukrainian officials have previously acknowledged the impact of artillery constraints on Ukraine's defensive and offensive capabilities, particularly in Donetsk Oblast. [31] Destructive Russian shelling and glide bomb strikes appear to be a fundamental aspect of the Kremlin's theory of victory in Ukraine, which posits that Russian forces can continue slow, grinding advances aided by razing Ukrainian settlements to the ground regardless of Russian manpower losses and premised on the assumption that Russian forces can deprive Ukraine of the ability to contest the theater-wide initiative in perpetuity. [32] Ukrainian forces have, on the contrary, demonstrated their commitment and ability to develop and employ alternative and asymmetric capabilities, namely drones and long-range strikes, to partially counter Russia's artillery advantage in Ukraine and to defend against Russian mechanized and infantry assaults, often to outsized effect compared to the smaller-scale systems Ukrainian forces are employing. Ukrainian forces successfully defended against a series of large-scale Russian mechanized assaults in western Donetsk Oblast in late July 2024 with drone strikes and limited artillery support, and Russian milbloggers have previously warned about the threat of targeted Ukrainian first-person view (FPV) drone strikes throughout the frontline in Ukraine. [33] Ukrainian forces have also used long-range strikes against Russian military targets and oil depots supplying military equipment in Russia to complicate Russian logistics, force Russia to reallocate air defense assets, and disrupt Russia's oil and gas industry. [34] The most recent allotment of US aid to Ukraine is undoubtedly insufficient to address the ongoing artillery disparity between Russian and Ukrainian forces and asymmetric means are not a replacement for artillery and other conventional means, but the US and wider Western alliance remain capable of addressing Ukraine's constraints caused by delays in Western security assistance.

The DIA also assesses that Ukraine "probably" remains capable of continuing defensive operations in Ukraine but is not capable of conducting large-scale counteroffensive operations for at least the next six months. [35] ISW recently assessed that both Russian and Ukrainian forces lack the capability to conduct individual decisive war-winning operations and must instead conduct multiple successful operations with limited operational objectives that, in the aggregate, can achieve strategic objectives. [36] ISW continues to assess that Ukrainian forces could use smaller-scale Ukrainian counterattacks and localized counteroffensive operations to liberate territory while avoiding the challenges associated with conducting large-scale counteroffensive operations amid continued Western delays and hesitancy in allocating further military assistance to Ukraine. Ukrainian forces have conducted several localized counterattacks in northern Kharkiv Oblast and towards Kreminna (in the Luhansk-Donetsk Oblast border area) in recent months, suggesting that Ukrainian forces are already attempting to contest the tactical initiative in select frontline areas. [37] Ukrainian forces have also succeeded in launching a localized offensive operation into Kursk Oblast and seizing the operational initiative in this sector of the frontline, which is drawing Russian forces from other, lower-priority frontline areas in Ukraine. Ukrainian officials have identified drawing Russian forces from lower-priority frontline areas as a key goal of Ukraine's incursion into Kursk Oblast, and this effort could force Russia to leave some of these areas vulnerable to further Ukrainian counterattacks. [38] ISW continues to assess that Ukrainian forces can contest the battlefield initiative and eventually set conditions to conduct both limited and eventually large-scale counteroffensive operations provided timely and appropriate Western security assistance. [39] The US and the international coalition supporting Ukraine retain significant influence over Ukrainian warfighting capabilities and Western decisions about Ukraine’s resourcing levels and rules of engagement regarding Russian military targets can substantially alter the trajectory of the war.

Ukraine continues efforts to attrit Russia's air defense and aviation capabilities. The Ukrainian General Staff reported that overnight on August 20 to 21, Ukrainian naval forces and other Ukrainian units conducted a coordinated strike with unspecified weapons and hit a Russian S-300 air defense system's position near Novoshakhtinsk, Rostov Oblast. [40] The Ukrainian General Staff noted that it is still clarifying the results of the strike but reported explosions near the S-300 site. Russian Rostov Oblast officials claimed that Russian air defense forces shot down an unspecified type of missile over Rostov Oblast early in the morning on August 21, and social media footage shows a fire at an oil refinery in Novoshakhtinsk reportedly caused by debris from the downed missile. [41] A prominent Kremlin-affiliated milblogger claimed that Russian forces destroyed a Ukrainian ATACMS missile over Novoshakhtinsk, alleging that this is the first ATACMS strike against Russian territory. [42] ISW has not observed any visual evidence or additional reports of the purported use of ATACMS, however.

Russian opposition sources and milbloggers also claimed that Ukraine conducted a long-range drone strike against targets in Russia's far-northern Murmansk Oblast (nearly 2,000 kilometers away from Ukraine) on August 21. [43] Geolocated Russian social media footage shows Russian forces shooting down a small aircraft-type drone flying at low altitude over Vysokiy, Murmansk Oblast, and Russian sources claimed that this is the fourth day in a row that attack drones have been targeting Murmansk Oblast. [44] The Russian Federal Air Transport Agency (Rosaviatsya) temporarily restricted the airspace over the Murmansk and Apatity airports on August 21, likely due to the operation of drones in the airspace. [45] Several Russian sources speculated that the drones were targeting Olenya airfield, which is co-located with the village of Vysokiy and from which Russia launches Tu-95MS and Tu-22M3 strategic bomber aircraft. [46] Ukrainian sources previously confirmed that Ukrainian long-range drones damaged a Tu-22M3 strategic bomber at Olenya on the night of July 26 to 27. [47] ISW has not observed visual evidence or official Ukrainian or Russian confirmation of drones impacting the Olenya airfield at the time of this publication, however.

Russian authorities may have attempted to block Telegram and other non-Russian internet communications services on August 21. Russian sources stated that Russian internet users reported outages of multiple internet communication, internet streaming, and telecommunication services on August 21. [48] Russian state media censor Roskomnadzor claimed that distributed denial of service (DDOS) attacks caused the outages, but that it successfully repelled the attack. [49] Russian activist and Director of the Internet Defense Society Mikhail Klimarev told Russian opposition outlet Agentstvo Novosti that such outages usually occur when Russian authorities activate the "anti-messenger mode" and noted that similar outages occurred during the antisemitic pogroms in Dagestan Republic in November 2023, and during protests in the Sakha and Bashkortostan republics in January 2024. [50] Experts from Roskomsvoboda, an independent Russian organization that supports internet freedom and digital rights, told Agentstvo Novosti that a centralized impact likely caused the outages and assessed that Roskomnadzor attempted to block Telegram, which inadvertently blocked other internet-based services in Russia. The experts also noted that similar outages occurred in 2018 when Russian authorities tried to block Telegram. [51] Russian authorities have also been attempting to further censor the Russian information space by disconnecting Russia from the global internet, and also temporarily disconnected Russia at least partially from the global internet during a test of its “sovereign internet” system overnight on July 4–5, 2023. [52]

The Russian government is reportedly supporting a bill that would allow Russian authorities to draw up administrative protocols against Russian citizens who violate Russian law while living abroad. Kremlin-affiliated business outlet Kommersant reported on August 21 that the bill would allow the Russian government to charge Russian citizens living abroad under vague charges of extremism, abuse of freedom of speech, and discrediting the Russian Armed Forces. [53] Unnamed Russian lawyers told Kommersant that Russian courts have previously prosecuted Russian citizens living outside of Russia for social media posts under similar charges.

Russian President Vladimir Putin and People's Republic of China (PRC) Premier Li Qiang discussed deepening bilateral economic and trade relations in Moscow on August 21. Putin stated that Russia and the PRC have jointly developed large-scale economic and humanitarian plans, and Li stated that the PRC is ready to develop a multifaceted mutually beneficial cooperation with Russia. [54] Li also met with Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin on August 21, and they signed a joint communique that includes a plan for Russian–PRC investment cooperation and 15 other unspecified intergovernmental and interdepartmental documents. [55] Li also noted during his meeting with Mishustin that Russia and the PRC are increasing cooperation in the energy sector. [56]

  Key Takeaways:

• The Kremlin appears to have launched an intricate messaging campaign aimed at justifying to its domestic audience why Russia is prioritizing maintaining the initiative in eastern Ukraine over immediately expelling Ukrainian forces from Kursk Oblast.
• Putin notably appears to be demanding that Russia defeat Ukraine’s incursion into Kursk Oblast without sacrificing the stability of his regime, deprioritizing the offensive in eastern Ukraine, or firing his incompetent but loyal lieutenants. The results of such a strategy are too early to forecast.
• Ukrainian forces continued offensive operations throughout the Kursk Oblast salient on August 21 and have made additional marginal advances.
• Russian President Vladimir Putin visited the Republic of Chechnya for the first time in 13 years on August 20, likely in an effort to shift domestic focus away from the Ukrainian incursion into Kursk Oblast and posture normalcy and stability.
• Recent US intelligence assessments highlight Ukraine's efforts to develop alternative and asymmetric capabilities in the face of Russian manpower and materiel advantages, as well as Ukraine's continued dependence on Western security assistance.
• Ukraine continues efforts to attrit Russia's air defense and aviation capabilities.
• Russian authorities may have attempted to block Telegram and other non-Russian internet communications services on August 21.
• The Russian government is reportedly supporting a bill that would allow Russian authorities to draw up administrative protocols against Russian citizens who violate Russian law while living abroad.
• Russian President Vladimir Putin and People's Republic of China (PRC) Premier Li Qiang discussed deepening bilateral economic and trade relations in Moscow on August 21.
• Russian forces recently advanced southeast of Pokrovsk, southwest of Donetsk City, and northeast of Robotyne.
• Russian occupation authorities continue to create Cossack organizations in occupied Ukraine, likely to build out Russia's military reserves and law enforcement bodies in occupied Ukraine.

We do not report in detail on Russian war crimes because these activities are well-covered in Western media and do not directly affect the military operations we are assessing and forecasting. We will continue to evaluate and report on the effects of these criminal activities on the Ukrainian military and the Ukrainian population and specifically on combat in Ukrainian urban areas. We utterly condemn Russian violations of the laws of armed conflict and the Geneva Conventions and crimes against humanity even though we do not describe them in these reports.

• Russian Main Effort – Eastern Ukraine (comprised of three subordinate main efforts)
• Russian Subordinate Main Effort #1 – Push Ukrainian forces back from the international border with Belgorod Oblast and approach to within tube artillery range of Kharkiv City
• Russian Subordinate Main Effort #2 – Capture the remainder of Luhansk Oblast and push westward into eastern Kharkiv Oblast and encircle northern Donetsk Oblast
• Russian Subordinate Main Effort #3 – Capture the entirety of Donetsk Oblast
• Russian Supporting Effort – Southern Axis
• Russian Air, Missile, and Drone Campaign
• Russian Mobilization and Force Generation Efforts
• Russian Technological Adaptations
• Activities in Russian-occupied areas
• Ukrainian Defense Industrial Base Efforts

Russian Information Operations and Narratives

• Significant Activity in Belarus

Russian Main Effort – Eastern Ukraine

Russian Subordinate Main Effort #1 – Kharkiv Oblast ( Russian objective: Push Ukrainian forces back from the international border with Belgorod Oblast and approach to within tube artillery range of Kharkiv City)

Limited positional engagements continued in northern Kharkiv Oblast on August 21, but there were no confirmed changes to the frontline. Ukrainian Kharkiv Group of Forces Spokesperson Colonel Vitaly Sarantsev noted that Russian forces have decreased their use of tactical aviation targeting Kharkiv Oblast in order to prioritize airstrikes in other areas of the theater and in Kursk Oblast. [57] Sarantsev also reported that a contingent of Russian forces remains blocked in the Vovchansk Aggregate Plant in Vovchansk (northeast of Kharkiv City), but that they are unable to attack their way out of the plant because Ukrainian forces control all logistics routes into and out of the plant. [58] Fighting continued north of Kharkiv City near Lyptsi and Hlyboke and in and around Vovchansk. [59] Elements of the Russian 11th Tank Regiment (18th Motorized Rifle Division, 11th Army Corps [AC], Leningrad Military District [LMD]) and 7th Motorized Rifle Regiment (11th AC, LMD) reportedly continue operating near Hlyboke and Lukyantsi (north of Kharkiv City and east of Hlyboke), respectively. [60]

Russian Subordinate Main Effort #2 – Luhansk Oblast (Russian objective: Capture the remainder of Luhansk Oblast and push westward into eastern Kharkiv Oblast and northern Donetsk Oblast)

Limited positional engagements continued along the Kupyansk-Svatove-Kreminna line on August 21, but there were no confirmed changes to the frontline. The Ukrainian General Staff reported that Russian forces attacked northeast of Kupyansk near Synkivka; east of Kupyansk near Petropavlivka; southeast of Kupyansk near Stepova Novoselivka and Berestove; northwest of Svatove near Stelmakhivka; west of Svatove near Andriivka; southwest of Svatove near Serhiivka and Novoserhiivka; northwest of Kreminna near Novosadove, Makiivka, Hrekivka, and Torske; and southwest of Kreminna near Dibrova on August 20 and 21. [61] Elements of the Russian 144th Motorized Rifle Division (20th Combined Arms Army [CAA], Moscow Military District [MMD]) reportedly continue operating in the Lyman direction (west of Kreminna). [62]

Russian Subordinate Main Effort #3 – Donetsk Oblast (Russian objective: Capture the entirety of Donetsk Oblast, the claimed territory of Russia’s proxies in Donbas)

Russian forces continued limited offensive operations southeast of Siversk near Spirne and Vyimka and south of Siversk near Pereizne on August 20 and 21. [63]

Russian forces did not make confirmed advances in the Chasiv Yar direction amid ongoing offensive operations on August 20 and 21. The Ukrainian General Staff reported that Russian forces continued offensive operations near Chasiv Yar; north of Chasiv Yar near Hryhorivka; southeast of Chasiv Yar near Ivanivske and Klishchiivka; and south of Chasiv Yar near Predtechyne on August 20 and 21. [64] A Russian milblogger claimed that Russian forces consolidated their positions in the forest south of Hryhorivka (north of Chasiv Yar) in an area up to 2.36 kilometers wide and that elements of the Russian Sever-V Brigade (Russian Volunteer Corps) reportedly continued operating near Hryhorivka. [65] A Russian milblogger claimed that Russian forces advanced southeast of Orikhovo-Vasylivka (northeast of Chasiv Yar), but ISW has not observed confirmation of this claim. [66]

Russian Defense Minister Andrei Belousov claimed on August 21 that Russian forces seized Niu York (south of Toretsk), but Ukrainian military sources continue to report that Ukrainian forces still control 20 percent of the settlement. [67] Belousov credited elements of the Russian 9th Motorized Rifle Brigade (1st Donetsk People’s Republic Army Corps [DNR AC]) for the seizure of Niu York. [68] A source from a Ukrainian brigade operating in the Toretsk direction told Ukrainian outlet Suspilne that the situation in Niu York is very difficult because Russian forces are constantly attacking the settlement in small assault groups but that Ukrainian forces still control about 20 percent of Niu York. [69] Russian milbloggers claimed that Russian forces advanced in the fields northeast of Druzhba (east of Toretsk); in northwestern Pivnichne (east of Toretsk); and in eastern Toretsk. [70] The Ukrainian General Staff reported that Russian forces launched assaults near Toretsk; southeast of Toretsk near Zalizne; south of Toretsk near Nelipivka and Niu York; and southwest of Toretsk near Panteleymonivka on August 20 and 21. [71] Belousov claimed on August 20 that elements of the Russian 132nd Motorized Rifle Brigade and 1st Slavic Brigade (both 1st DNR AC) seized Zalizne. [72]

Russian forces recently advanced southeast of Pokrovsk and continued offensive operations in this direction on August 20 and 21. Geolocated footage published on August 20 shows that Russian forces advanced in northwestern Zhuravka (southeast of Pokrovsk), and some Russian milbloggers claimed that elements of the Russian 27th Motorized Rifle Division (2nd Combined Arms Army [CAA], Central Military District [CMD]) seized Zhuravka. [73] ISW had not observed visual evidence confirming Russian advances in the northwesternmost part of Zhuravka, nor to suggest that Russian forces control the entire settlement. Russian milbloggers claimed that Russian forces advanced northeast of Hrodivka (east of Porkrovsk) and northeast of Novohrodivka, south of Mykolaivka, and north of Ptyche (all southeast of Pokrovsk). [74] Russian milbloggers also claimed that Russian forces seized Komyshivka (southeast of Pokrovsk) but ISW has not yet observed visual evidence confirming these milblogger claims. [75] The Russian Ministry of Defense (MoD) retroactively announced on August 21 that the Russian Central Grouping of Forces (GoF) seized Zhelanne, and ISW assessed that Russian forces likely seized Zhelanne around August 18. [76] The Ukrainian General Staff reported that Russian forces continued offensive operations east of Pokrovsk near Vozdvyzhenka, Zelene Pole, Myrolyubivka, Hrodivka, and Kalynove; and southeast of Pokrovsk near Mykolaivka, Novohrodivka, Mykhailivka, Ptyche, and Skuchne. [77] Elements of the Russian BARS-15 unit (Russian Combat Army Reserve) are reportedly operating in the Avdiivka direction, and a drone company of the ”Volga” Brigade is reportedly operating near Novohrodivka. [78]

Russian forces continued offensive operations west of Donetsk City near Krasnohorivka and Heorhiivka on August 20 and 21, but there were no confirmed changes to the frontline in the area. [79]

Russian forces recently advanced southwest of Donetsk City amid continued assaults in the area on August 21. Geolocated footage published on August 20 and 21 indicates that Russian forces recently advanced north of Kostyantynivka and southeast of Vodyane (both northeast of Vuhledar). [80] Russian milbloggers claimed that Russian forces are also advancing northwest of Paraskoviivka. [81] Russian forces also continued offensive operations near Pobieda on August 21. [82] A Russian milblogger noted that Russian forces recently advanced up to another area of O-0532 (T-0524) Vuhledar-Kostyantynivka highway near Vuhledar, which is consistent with ISW's assessment of Russian advances in the area. [83] Russian forces achieved their longstanding tactical objective of reaching the O-0532 highway and cutting the Ukrainian ground line of communication (GLOC) between Vuhledar and Kostyantynivka on August 2, although these advances have not significantly impacted Russian nor Ukrainian operations in the area in subsequent weeks. [84]

Neither Russian nor Ukrainian sources reported ground attacks in the Donetsk-Zaporizhia Oblast border area on August 21.

Russian Supporting Effort – Southern Axis (Russian objective: Maintain frontline positions and secure rear areas against Ukrainian strikes)

Geolocated footage published on August 20 indicates that Russian forces have recently advanced in western Zaporizhia Oblast to the southern outskirts of Luhivske (northeast of Robotyne). [85] Some Russian milbloggers claimed that Ukrainian forces are preparing for offensive operations in Zaporizhia Oblast, with one milblogger claiming on the evening of August 20 that Ukrainian forces launched an offensive operation near Polohy (in central Zaporizhia Oblast east of Robotyne). [86] Former Roscosmos (Russian space agency) head and Zaporizhia Oblast occupation senator Dmitry Rogozin and several milbloggers denied claims of Ukrainian activation anywhere in Zaporizhia Oblast, however, and accused other Russian commentators of overhyping false information and creating panic in the information space. [87] The Ukrainian General Staff reported that Russian forces attacked north of Robotyne near Novodanylivka and northeast of Robotyne near Mala Tokmachka on August 20 and 21. [88] Elements of BARS-32 (Russian Combat Army Reserve) are reportedly operating near Enerhodar (west of Robotyne), while elements of the 503rd Motorized Rifle Regiment (19th Motorized Rifle Division, 58th Combined Arms Army [CAA], Southern Military District [SMD]) and BARS-3 are operating in the general Zaporizhia Oblast direction. [89]

Russian forces continued unsuccessful ground attacks in east (left) bank Kherson Oblast on August 20 and 21 but did not make any confirmed advances. [90] Russian forces conducted drone, artillery, and air strikes against settlements and civilian infrastructure in west bank Kherson Oblast. [91]

Russian Air, Missile, and Drone Campaign (Russian Objective: Target Ukrainian military and civilian infrastructure in the rear and on the frontline)

Russian forces conducted a series of missile and drone strikes against Ukraine on the night of August 20 to 21. Ukrainian Air Force Commander Lieutenant General Mykola Oleshchuk reported that Russian forces launched two Iskander-M or North Korean KN-23 ballistic missiles from Voronezh Oblast, a Kh-59/69 cruise missile from the airspace over Kursk Oblast, and 69 Shahed-136/131 drones from Kursk Oblastand Yeysk and Primorsko-Akhtarsk, Krasnodar Krai. [92] Oleshchuk stated that Ukrainian forces shot down one Kh-59/69 missile and 50 Shahed drones over Khmelnytskyi, Poltava, Cherkasy, Kyiv, Vinnytsia, Ivano-Frankivsk, Dnipropetrovsk, Mykolaiv, Odesa, Kherson, Donetsk, Kirovohrad, Sumy and Chernihiv oblasts. Oleshchuk added that 16 Shahed drones did not reach their targets and likely fell due to Ukrainian electronic warfare (EW) suppression and that another Shahed drone flew from Chernihiv Oblast's airspace into Belgorod Oblast's airspace via Belarussian airspace. The Kyiv City Military Administration reported that Ukrainian forces destroyed up to a dozen drones near Kyiv City. [93]

Russian Mobilization and Force Generation Efforts (Russian objective: Expand combat power without conducting general mobilization)

Russian occupation authorities continue to create Cossack organizations in occupied Ukraine, likely to build out Russia's military reserves and law enforcement bodies in occupied Ukraine. Zaporizhia Oblast occupation administration head Yevgeny Balitsky announced on August 21 that Russian occupation authorities are attempting to recreate the "Zaporizhian Cossack Army" - in reference to the historical Zaporizhian Cossacks (which, ironically, fought against the Russian Empire to exist as an independent and democratic polity) - and will start registering Cossack societies in occupied Zaporizhia Oblast before the end of 2024. [94] Balitsky further claimed that the BARS-32 Detachment of the Sudoplatov Volunteer Battalion already operating in Zaporizhia Oblast is staffed with Cossacks. Kherson Oblast occupation administration head Vladimir Saldo also announced that occupied Kherson Oblast will start registering Cossack societies in October 2024. [95] Saldo claimed that over 18,000 Cossacks are currently fighting in Ukraine and that unspecified Cossack units are operating in occupied Kherson Oblast and on the occupied Kinburn Spit, Mykolaiv Oblast. Russian President Vladimir Putin notably signed a law in March 2024 that authorized members of the All-Russian Cossack Society who are in the Russian military and security services reserves to join the mobilization reserve, and Putin transferred control of the Cossack Cadet Corps to the jurisdiction of the Russian Ministry of Defense (MoD) in June 2024. [96]

Moscow City authorities are advertising their Military Service Consulting Center, which provides administrative and social services to Russians who signed military service contracts, amid recent reports that Moscow City is struggling to recruit military personnel. [97] Moscow's Military Service Consulting center advertises Russian military contract service and provides contract service personnel with travel and administrative assistance and provides accommodation and food to prospective personnel undergoing selection. Moscow Mayor Sergei Sobyanin recently claimed that 43,000 Muscovites are currently fighting in Ukraine and that another 23,000 Muscovites will deploy to Ukraine as volunteers by the end of 2024, although a source within Sobyanin's office told Russian opposition outlet Verstka that most of the recruits registered as being from Moscow actually originate from other regions of Russia. [98]

Russian opposition outlet Verstka reported that 48 high-ranking Russian military officials have resigned or been dismissed since the start of the full-scale invasion of Ukraine. [99] Verstka reported that 21 officials left offices within the Russian Ministry of Defense (MoD), including former Russian Defense Minister and current Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu and six of his deputies. Verstka also noted that 13 of the 48 senior military officials held leadership positions within the Joint Grouping of Forces in Ukraine, that eight of them were military district commanders, and that five of them held main commands. Verstka reported that Russian authorities have opened criminal cases against at least seven of these officials.

The Russian MoD appointed Former CEO of the Federal State Unitary Enterprise "Goszagransobstvennost," Yevgeny Logvinov to the position of director of the MoD's Military Property Department. [100]

Russian Technological Adaptations (Russian objective: Introduce technological innovations to optimize systems for use in Ukraine)

Russia continues to find ways to incorporate US-produced electronic components into its weapons and censorship, and surveillance systems. Russian investigative outlet The Insider published a story on August 20 detailing how Russia is importing programmable logic devices (PLDs) for use in missile and drone navigation systems, internet content filtration, and facial recognition, many of which come from US companies. [101] The Insider noted that Russia is using Xilex and Altera integrated circuits, both products of American PLD manufacturers, in the navigation systems for Iskander and Kalibr missiles. The Insider also emphasized that Russia is able to import such PLDs despite extensive international sanctions, largely because many export companies are ignoring international embargoes.

Ukrainian Defense Industrial Efforts (Ukrainian objective: Develop its defense industrial base to become more self-sufficient in cooperation with US, European, and international partners)

ISW is suspending publishing coverage of Ukrainian defense industrial efforts until further notice.

Activities in Russian-occupied areas (Russian objective: Consolidate administrative control of annexed areas; forcibly integrate Ukrainian citizens into Russian sociocultural, economic, military, and governance systems)

ISW is not publishing coverage of activities in Russian-occupied areas today.

Ukrainian Main Military Intelligence Directorate (GUR) Deputy Chief Major General Vadym Skibitskyi reported on August 21 that Russian and pro-Russian actors are conducting an information operation aimed at discouraging Ukrainian refugees in the European Union (EU) from returning to Ukraine and degrading their Ukrainian identity. [102] Skibitskyi stated that pro-Russian journalists are distributing publications in Italy about supposed Ukrainian crimes against civilians in occupied Donetsk and Luhansk oblasts.

Russian officials continue to seize on the Ukrainian incursion into Kursk Oblast as part of a long-standing Kremlin information operation that falsely portrays Ukraine as unwilling to engage in legitimate, good-faith negotiations and places the onus for peace negotiations on Ukraine. Russian Security Council Deputy Chairperson Dmitry Medvedev claimed on August 21 that Russia could have previously fallen into a "negotiation trap" by entering into "unnecessary peace negotiations" with Ukraine, but that the Ukrainian incursion into Kursk Oblast has clarified that Russia will not negotiate with Ukraine until Ukraine is "completely defeated." [103] Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) Spokesperson Maria Zakharova claimed that Ukraine's incursion into Kursk Oblast a priori cancels the possibility of peace negotiations. [104] ISW continues to assess that the Kremlin is only interested in a negotiated settlement that results in complete Ukrainian capitulation and that any Russian statements to the contrary are intended to delude the West into making pre-emptive concessions on Ukraine's sovereignty and territory integrity. [105]

Significant activity in Belarus (Russian efforts to increase its military presence in Belarus and further integrate Belarus into Russian-favorable frameworks and Wagner Group activity in Belarus)

The Belarusian Ministry of Defense (MoD) reported on August 21 that the head of the MoD's First Directorate of the Department of International Military Cooperation, Colonel Dmitry Ryabikhin, visited an unspecified People's Liberation Army (PLA) unit during his visit to the People's Republic of China (PRC). [106]

Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko dismissed Major General Igor Butkevich as First Deputy Chairman of the Belarusian Border Committee due to Butkevich's age on August 21 and appointed Colonel Andrey Filatov as the new first deputy chairman. [107]

Note: ISW does not receive any classified material from any source, uses only publicly available information, and draws extensively on Russian, Ukrainian, and Western reporting and social media as well as commercially available satellite imagery and other geospatial data as the basis for these reports. References to all sources used are provided in the endnotes of each update.

[1] https://meduza dot io/feature/2024/08/21/v-kremle-schitayut-chto-boi-v-kurskoy-oblasti-prodlyatsya-neskolko-mesyatsev-i-hotyat-ubedit-rossiyan-chto-eto-novaya-normalnost

[2] https://www.pravda dot com.ua/eng/news/2024/08/21/7471267/

[3] https://www.pravda dot com.ua/eng/news/2024/08/21/7471267/; https://t.me/cikrossii/3944

[4] https://meduza dot io/paragraph/2024/08/21/kursk-ne-slomit-kak-v-geroicheskom-1943-m-my-vse-ot-hipsterov-do-vatnikov-dolzhny-ob-edinitsya

[5] https://t.me/warhistoryalconafter/180564

[6] https://meduza dot io/feature/2024/08/21/v-kremle-schitayut-chto-boi-v-kurskoy-oblasti-prodlyatsya-neskolko-mesyatsev-i-hotyat-ubedit-rossiyan-chto-eto-novaya-normalnost

[7] https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/assessing-significance-current-russian-and-ukrainian-operations-course-war

[8] https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-june-7-2024

[9] https://meduza dot io/feature/2024/08/21/v-kremle-schitayut-chto-boi-v-kurskoy-oblasti-prodlyatsya-neskolko-mesyatsev-i-hotyat-ubedit-rossiyan-chto-eto-novaya-normalnost

[10] https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-february-26-2023 ; https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-march-12-2023 ; https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-august-10-2024

[11] https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/putin-vulnerable-western-policy-masks-russian-weakness

[12] https://understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-april-30-2023 ; https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-may-12-2024 ; https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-june-24-2023

[13] https://t.me/ukr_sof/1183; https://t.me/kiber_boroshno/9623 ; https://t.me/WarArchive_ua/19046 ; https://t.me/warhistoryalconafter/180535 ; https://x.com/666_mancer/status/1826175406610829766

[14] https://t.me/ukr_sof/1183; https://t.me/motopatriot/26477

[15] https://t.me/VARYAGI_155/105 ; https://x.com/AudaxonX/status/1826198757483896954 ; https://x.com/AudaxonX/status/1826222767802351867 ; https://x.com/AudaxonX/status/1826225646197952718 ; https://x.com/AudaxonX/status/1826233665426456948 ; https://x.com/AudaxonX/status/1826236574507679841; https://x.com/giK1893/status/1826214202534437305; https://t.me/creamy_caprice/6464

[16] https://t.me/rusich_army/16657

[17] https://t.me/dva_majors/50276

[18] https://t.me/morpexiMO/6306 ; https://x.com/franfran2424/status/1826200674851344588 ; https://x.com/GNovosibir79446/status/1826192342170189845; https://x.com/moklasen/status/1826202988295127510; https://x.com/moklasen/status/1826202992103539130; https://t.me/morpexiMO/6306; https://t.me/creamy_caprice/6462

[19] https://x.com/moklasen/status/1826296192013304096; https://t.me/khornegroup/2556

[20] https://t.me/DnevnikDesantnika/14331; https://t.me/motopatriot/26459; https://t.me/motopatriot/26447; https://t.me/voenkorKotenok/58401; https://t.me/philologist_zov/1260

[21] https://t.me/dva_majors/50306 ; https://t.me/RVvoenkor/75284 ; https://t.me/s/NgP_raZVedka ; https://t.me/boris_rozhin/134360 ; https://t.me/mobilizationnews/19905

[22] https://x.com/EjShahid/status/1826295667318280343; https://t.me/rusich_army/16669

[23] https://t.me/astrapress/62346 ; https://t.me/dva_majors/50306; https://x.com/AudaxonX/status/1825990685901615544 ; https://t.me/dva_majors/50231; https://t.me/control_sigma/33709 ; https://t.me/DnevnikDesantnika/14319

[24] http://kremlin dot ru/events/president/news/74906

[25] http://kremlin dot ru/events/president/news/74904

[26] https://isw.pub/UkrWar103023 ; https://isw.pub/UkrWar122023 ; https://isw.pub/UkrWar033024

[27] http://kremlin dot ru/events/president/news/74904

[28] https://isw.pub/UkrWar081624 ; https://isw.pub/UkrWar081924 ; https://isw.pub/UkrWar081424

[29] https://media.defense.gov/2024/Aug/16/2003527561/-1/-1/1/OAR_Q3_JUN2024_FINAL_508.PDF

[30] https://media.defense.gov/2024/Aug/16/2003527561/-1/-1/1/OAR_Q3_JUN2024_FINAL_508.PDF

[31] https://isw.pub/UkrWar061524 ; https://isw.pub/UkrWar042024 ; https://isw.pub/UkrWar041924 ; https://isw.pub/UkrWar020924 ; https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-may-2-2024 ; https://isw.pub/UkrWar041924 ; https://www.ft.com/content/daa1a6ad-9ada-42ba-bfb2-2c199118e904 ; https://archive.ph/7LGbR

[32] https://isw.pub/UkrWar060724

[33] https://isw.pub/UkrWar072524 ; https://isw.pub/UkrWar073024 ; https://isw.pub/UkrWar052124 ; https://isw.pub/UkrWar031224 ; https://isw.pub/UkrWar121623 ;

[34] https://isw.pub/UkrWar071624 ; https://isw.pub/UkrWar071424 ; https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-june-9-2024 ; https://isw.pub/UkrWar042324 ; https://isw.pub/UkrWar040824 ; https://isw.pub/UkrWar032024 ; https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-january-29-2024 ; https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-january-21-2024

[35] https://media.defense.gov/2024/Aug/16/2003527561/-1/-1/1/OAR_Q3_JUN2024_FINAL_508.PDF

[36] https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-august-17-2024

[37] https://isw.pub/UkrWar071224

[38] https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-august-17-2024

[39] https://isw.pub/UkrWar072424 ; https://isw.pub/UkrWar072024

[40] https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid0xJoc2FgD5hUcErqdGSmku86d2jBJSLAp22DNCGhaDHtvNVkjW5hVySfgxy9PRMbJl

[41] h ttps://t.me/andriyshTime/26252 ; https://t.me/vrogov/17127 ; https://x.com/666_mancer/status/1826251220308430880 ; https://vk.com/wall-90644414_39836 ; https://t.me/golubev_vu/1494 ; https://t.me/golubev_vu/1495 ; https://t.me/etorostov/62864 ; https://t.me/vchkogpu/50118

[42] https://t.me/rybar/62951

[43] https://t.me/sotaproject/85660 ; https://t.me/astrapress/62407; https://t.me/milinfolive/128915

[44] https://t.me/VGrudina/2794 ; https://x.com/666_mancer/status/1826270072307855362 https://x.com/666_mancer/status/1826292246460711184 ; https://x.com/Grimm_Intel/status/1826270127722996150; https://t.me/voenkorKotenok/58419 ; https://t.me/voenkorKotenok/58417 ; https://t.me/milinfolive/128912%20;%20https:/t.me/milinfolive/128915

[45] https://t.me/tass_agency/267622 ; https://t.me/sotaproject/85664

[46] https://t.me/milinfolive/128915 ; https://t.me/vchkogpu/50145 ; https://meduza dot io/news/2024/08/21/glava-murmanskoy-oblasti-zayavil-ob-ugroze-bespilotnikov-v-regione-mestnyy-aeroport-vremenno-zakryli

[47] https://suspilne dot media/800159-droni-gur-atakuvali-npz-vijskovi-aerodromi-rf-i-poskodili-nadzvukovij-bombarduvalnik-dzerela/ ; https://armyinform.com dot ua/2024/07/27/chorni-dni-rosijskoyi-aviacziyi-detali-atak-na-obyekty-v-tylu-rf/

[48] https://t.me/tass_agency/267588 ; https://t.me/tass_agency/267597 ; https://meduza dot io/feature/2024/08/21/v-rossii-perestali-otkryvatsya-telegram-whatsapp-steam-discord-i-mnogie-drugie-servisy-chto-proishodit-neponyatno

[49] https://t.me/tass_agency/267601

[50] https://t.me/agentstvonews/7046

[51] https://meduza dot io/short/2020/06/18/dva-goda-popytok-blokirovki-telegram-v-rossii-kak-eto-bylo

[52] https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-july-7-2023

[53] https://www.kommersant dot ru/doc/6905653 ; https://www.vesti dot ru/article/4103600; https://meduza dot io/feature/2024/08/21/vlasti-smogut-privlekat-uehavshih-rossiyan-po-politicheskim-statyam-koap-a-razve-ranshe-ne-privlekali-ili-teper-oni-budut-delat-eto-chasche

[54] http://kremlin dot ru/events/president/news/74910

[55] https://t.me/tass_agency/267576

[56] https://t.me/tass_agency/267528

[57] https://armyinform dot com.ua/2024/08/21/na-harkivskomu-napryamku-rosiyany-zmenshyly-zastosuvannya-taktychnoyi-aviacziyi/

[58] https://suspilne dot media/817997-zsu-kontroluut-93-naseleni-punkti-v-kurskij-oblasti-trivae-evakuacia-z-pokrovska-910-den-vijni-onlajn/?anchor=live_1724252042&utm_source=copylink&utm_medium=ps; https://armyinform.com dot ua/2024/08/21/v-otu-harkiv-rozpovily-pro-stanovyshhe-okupantiv-na-agregatnomu-zavodu-u-vovchansku/

[59] https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid02mbcfj2CsF4Zev5JUw6tqFFzHABZsE9uVBhz9tSKev7YcfT8NvQUYajTna6B7vAUQl ; https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid02F1pqeXSUWGYRQ1xdb5t2uwAyf9GudeWCy3oNHFZvP775hNmxQpgwqVTfYVPgbnD6l; https://t.me/wargonzo/21670

[60] https://t.me/otukharkiv/841

[61] https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid02mbcfj2CsF4Zev5JUw6tqFFzHABZsE9uVBhz9tSKev7YcfT8NvQUYajTna6B7vAUQl ; https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid02F1pqeXSUWGYRQ1xdb5t2uwAyf9GudeWCy3oNHFZvP775hNmxQpgwqVTfYVPgbnD6l

[62] https://t.me/vysokygovorit/17012

[63] https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid02F1pqeXSUWGYRQ1xdb5t2uwAyf9GudeWCy3oNHFZvP775hNmxQpgwqVTfYVPgbnD6l; https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid02KwX54hpu7qM9kdUS9qLQhEGJavR3XHNSBMNzsBeoh6Q6oH644FBij6cnaZVo2Cssl; https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid02mbcfj2CsF4Zev5JUw6tqFFzHABZsE9uVBhz9tSKev7YcfT8NvQUYajTna6B7vAUQl

[64] https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid02mbcfj2CsF4Zev5JUw6tqFFzHABZsE9uVBhz9tSKev7YcfT8NvQUYajTna6B7vAUQl ; https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid02F1pqeXSUWGYRQ1xdb5t2uwAyf9GudeWCy3oNHFZvP775hNmxQpgwqVTfYVPgbnD6l; https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid02KwX54hpu7qM9kdUS9qLQhEGJavR3XHNSBMNzsBeoh6Q6oH644FBij6cnaZVo2Cssl

[65] https://t.me/RVvoenkor/75309; https://t.me/voin_dv/10389

[66] https://t [dot] me/motopatriot/26441

[67] https://t.me/mod_russia/42426 ; https://suspilne dot media/817997-zsu-kontroluut-93-naseleni-punkti-v-kurskij-oblasti-trivae-evakuacia-z-pokrovska-910-den-vijni-onlajn/?anchor=live_1724242209&utm_source=copylink&utm_medium=ps

[68] https://t.me/mod_russia/42426

[69] https://suspilne dot media/817997-zsu-kontroluut-93-naseleni-punkti-v-kurskij-oblasti-trivae-evakuacia-z-pokrovska-910-den-vijni-onlajn/?anchor=live_1724242209&utm_source=copylink&utm_medium=ps

[70] https://t [dot] me/z_arhiv/27719; https://t.me/rybar/62934 ; https://t.me/RVvoenkor/75309; https://t.me/dva_majors/50276; https://t.me/boris_rozhin/134415

[71] https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid02mbcfj2CsF4Zev5JUw6tqFFzHABZsE9uVBhz9tSKev7YcfT8NvQUYajTna6B7vAUQl ; https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid02F1pqeXSUWGYRQ1xdb5t2uwAyf9GudeWCy3oNHFZvP775hNmxQpgwqVTfYVPgbnD6l; https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid02KwX54hpu7qM9kdUS9qLQhEGJavR3XHNSBMNzsBeoh6Q6oH644FBij6cnaZVo2Cssl

[72] https://t.me/mod_russia/42396

[73] https://t.me/dva_majors/50276 ; https://t.me/motopatriot/26417; https://t.me/RVvoenkor/75278

[74] https://t [dot] me/z_arhiv/27717; https://t [dot] me/boris_rozhin/134415; https://t [dot] me/z_arhiv/27715; https://t [dot] me/motopatriot/26443; https://t [dot] me/boris_rozhin/134415

[75] https://t.me/RVvoenkor/75281 ; https://t.me/DnevnikDesantnika/14318; https://t.me/boris_rozhin/134415

[76] https://t.me/mod_russia/42412 ; https://understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-august-19-2024

[77] https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid02mbcfj2CsF4Zev5JUw6tqFFzHABZsE9uVBhz9tSKev7YcfT8NvQUYajTna6B7vAUQl ; https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid02F1pqeXSUWGYRQ1xdb5t2uwAyf9GudeWCy3oNHFZvP775hNmxQpgwqVTfYVPgbnD6l; https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid02KwX54hpu7qM9kdUS9qLQhEGJavR3XHNSBMNzsBeoh6Q6oH644FBij6cnaZVo2Cssl

[78] https://t.me/ButusovPlus/12923 ; https://t.me/voenkorKotenok/58405 ; https://t.me/motopatriot/26423

[79] https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid02mbcfj2CsF4Zev5JUw6tqFFzHABZsE9uVBhz9tSKev7YcfT8NvQUYajTna6B7vAUQl ; https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid02F1pqeXSUWGYRQ1xdb5t2uwAyf9GudeWCy3oNHFZvP775hNmxQpgwqVTfYVPgbnD6l ; https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid02KwX54hpu7qM9kdUS9qLQhEGJavR3XHNSBMNzsBeoh6Q6oH644FBij6cnaZVo2Cssl ; https://t.me/wargonzo/21670 ; https://t.me/voenkorKotenok/58402

[80] https://x.com/PuenteUribarri/status/1826153970517029174; https://x.com/klinger66/status/1826174132343517470; https://x.com/klinger66/status/1826188895937020218; https://t.me/creamy_caprice/6461 ; https://t.me/odshbr79/304; https://t.me/creamy_caprice/6452

[81] https://t.me/DnevnikDesantnika/14324 ; https://t.me/boris_rozhin/134415 ; https://t.me/z_arhiv/27713

[82] https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid02mbcfj2CsF4Zev5JUw6tqFFzHABZsE9uVBhz9tSKev7YcfT8NvQUYajTna6B7vAUQl

[83] https://t.me/motopatriot/26456

[84] https://understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-august-2-2024

[85] https://t.me/operativnoZSU/154906; https://t.me/creamy_caprice/6459

[86] https://t.me/romanov_92/45062; https://t.me/DnevnikDesantnika/14310; https://t.me/sashakots/48517; https://t.me/sashakots/48517

[87] https://t.me/rogozin_do/6326; https://t.me/NgP_raZVedka/18763 ; https://t.me/NgP_raZVedka/18762; https://t.me/NgP_raZVedka/18765; https://t.me/dva_majors/50271 ; https://t.me/romanov_92/45062

[88] https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid02KwX54hpu7qM9kdUS9qLQhEGJavR3XHNSBMNzsBeoh6Q6oH644FBij6cnaZVo2Cssl; https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid02F1pqeXSUWGYRQ1xdb5t2uwAyf9GudeWCy3oNHFZvP775hNmxQpgwqVTfYVPgbnD6l ; https://t.me/SJTF_Odes/11036

[89] https://t.me/orly_rs/5549;

[90] https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid02KwX54hpu7qM9kdUS9qLQhEGJavR3XHNSBMNzsBeoh6Q6oH644FBij6cnaZVo2Cssl ; https://www.facebook.com/GeneralStaff.ua/posts/pfbid02F1pqeXSUWGYRQ1xdb5t2uwAyf9GudeWCy3oNHFZvP775hNmxQpgwqVTfYVPgbnD6l; https://t.me/SJTF_Odes/11036

[91] https://t.me/khersonskaODA/23489; https://t.me/olexandrprokudin/4265; https://t.me/khersonskaODA/23488; https://t.me/khersonskaODA/23482; https://t.me/khersonskaODA/23468; https://t.me/khersonskaODA/23467; https://t.me/khersonskaODA/23459; https://t.me/olexandrprokudin/4268

[92] https://t.me/ComAFUA/393

[93] https://t.me/VA_Kyiv/7492

[94] https://t.me/BalitskyEV/3765

[95] https://t.me/SALDO_VGA/4063

[96] https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-june-23-2024 ; https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-march-24-2024

[97] https://t.me/voenkom_on_line/410 ; https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-august-13-2024

[98] https://www.understandingwar.org/backgrounder/russian-offensive-campaign-assessment-august-13-2024

[99] https://t.me/svobodnieslova/5479 ; https://verstka dot media/chistki-v-minoborony-50-uvoleno

[100] https://www.interfax dot ru/russia/977489

[101] https://theins dot ru/obshestvo/273811

[102] https://t.me/DIUkraine/4274; https://armyinform dot com.ua/2024/08/21/operacziyi-proty-ukrayinskyh-bizhencziv-u-yevropi-gotuye-rf-gur/

[103] https://t.me/tass_agency/267509 ; https://t.me/dva_majors/50281 ; https://t.me/medvedev_telegram/523 ; https://t.me/medvedev_telegramE/19

[104] https://t.me/tass_agency/267567

[105] https://isw.pub/UkrWar081324 ; https://isw.pub/UkrWar072524 ; https://isw.pub/UkrWar072424 ; https://isw.pub/UkrWar071924

[106] https://t.me/modmilby/41217

[107] https://t.me/pul_1/13409