With Thanksgiving right around the corner, local families are already thinking about how to stretch their grocery dollars without skimping on the classics.
Two major retailers — ALDI and Walmart — are making that easier this year with full Thanksgiving meal options priced at roughly $40 for 10 people.
Here’s how they stack up, and what local shoppers should know before choosing where to shop.
ALDI: A Classic Thanksgiving Feast on a Budget
ALDI is promoting what it calls a “Thanksgiving meal for 10” for about $40 total, or $4 per person.
Instead of a pre-packaged basket, ALDI provides a curated list of 21 ingredients that make up a traditional dinner: a 14-pound turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes and gravy, green bean casserole, cranberry sauce, rolls, sweet potato casserole, and pumpkin pie.
Shoppers pick up each item individually in store or order through curbside pickup and delivery partners. ALDI’s list will be clearly marked in stores to help you stay on budget.
Why it’s appealing:
- You get flexibility to swap or skip items.
- You can trust ALDI’s everyday low prices.
- Ideal for those who enjoy shopping the aisles and hand-picking what they need.
What to keep in mind:
- The $40 total assumes everything is in stock and priced at ALDI’s current rates.
- Popular items, especially turkeys, may sell out early.
- Prices can vary slightly between stores in the Southern Tier.
Walmart: One-Click Convenience for Busy Households
Walmart’s Thanksgiving deal also serves 10 people for less than $40 total.
The difference is convenience as shoppers can grab the entire meal basket with one click online, for pickup or delivery.
The basket includes about 20 items, such as a Butterball turkey, Stove Top stuffing, potatoes, rolls, canned vegetables, gravy, and pumpkin pie ingredients.
Walmart also offers specialty variations like gluten-free, high-protein, or even a prime rib holiday basket, all designed to make holiday shopping easier.
Why it’s appealing:
- Quick “one-click” option for busy families.
- Mix of national brands and Walmart’s private labels.
- Flexible online ordering with pickup or delivery options.
- Dietary variations available for specific needs.
What to keep in mind:
- Some baskets may include items your family doesn’t need.
- Delivery or pickup fees may apply depending on your location.
- High demand could mean delays or limited stock as Thanksgiving nears.
Side-by-Side Snapshot
| Feature | ALDI | Walmart |
|---|---|---|
| Price | Around $40 for 10 | Under $40 for 10 |
| Format | Curated list you shop yourself | One-click basket (pickup/delivery) |
| Brands | Mostly ALDI exclusives | Mix of national and store brands |
| Flexibility | High – choose your items | Moderate – fixed basket |
| Specialty Options | None formal, but easy to substitute | Gluten-free, balanced swaps, prime rib basket |
| Ordering | In-store, curbside, or partner delivery | Online basket, pickup, or delivery |
Which Is Best for You?
- Budget-conscious and hands-on shoppers might prefer ALDI, where you can see every price, swap items, and stay in control of your list.
- Busy families or those who value convenience may gravitate toward Walmart’s ready-to-order basket.
Both deals aim to keep the holiday meal under $40, a welcome relief for local families watching grocery bills rise this year.
Local Tips for Southern Tier Shoppers
- Shop early. Turkeys and side staples often sell out in Olean, Jamestown, and nearby towns as the holiday approaches.
- Check for local price differences. Each store may have slightly different pricing on certain ingredients.
- Plan for add-ons. If your family has traditional dishes beyond the basics, budget a little extra.
- Use these bundles as a foundation. Both stores’ deals can cover your essentials, leaving room for your own homemade touches.
This Thanksgiving, whether you lean toward ALDI’s no-frills affordability or Walmart’s one-click convenience, both offer simple ways to gather your loved ones around a hearty meal without breaking the bank, and that’s something to be thankful for.
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