According to a research by Lucky Peak, sports betting during Thanksgiving week is predicted to break all prior records in the US. According to analysts, bets between November 25 and December 1 would equal an astounding $4.5 billion, an 11% rise over the same time last year.
The surge in sports betting activity is largely attributed to the growing number of states legalizing sports wagering. Since the Supreme Court struck down the federal ban on sports betting in 2018, 38 states and Washington, D.C., have embraced regulated markets. Missouri recently joined the wave, with voters approving sports betting legalization in the latest election.
Chad Beynon, an analyst at Macquarie, highlighted this upward trend, noting that the expansion of legal markets continues to drive betting volumes. “The growth reflects not only increased availability but also the growing enthusiasm among bettors nationwide,” Beynon remarked.
The Thanksgiving holiday lineup is also expected to play a pivotal role in boosting betting activity. The NFL has scheduled three high-profile games during the week, while a variety of college football matchups will further attract wagers. Combined, these events create a fertile environment for heightened sports betting participation.
In addition to the traditional sports betting market, the broader iGaming sector in the U.S. remains relatively untapped. Currently, only seven states, including Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Nevada, have legalized online casino gaming. This limited adoption suggests significant room for growth in the digital gaming industry alongside sports wagering.
As more states consider legalization and high-profile events continue to draw attention, the U.S. sports betting market appears set to grow exponentially. With Thanksgiving week offering a mix of tradition and opportunity, this period could further solidify the industry’s role in the nation’s economy.