The halftime show Thanksgiving 2025 brought some of the most unforgettable music moments of the holiday season. This year’s NFL Thanksgiving games not only delivered exciting football action but also featured star-studded performances that entertained millions across the country.
With over 40 million viewers tuning in nationwide, the Thanksgiving halftime tradition continued its legacy of blending sports and live entertainment. From Detroit to Dallas, each performance showcased a unique blend of pop, country, and classic holiday spirit — making Thanksgiving Day 2025 one to remember.
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Detroit Lions Game: Big Sean and Jelly Roll Take the Stage
The first halftime celebration of the day took place at Ford Field in Detroit, where the Detroit Lions hosted the Chicago Bears in the early afternoon matchup. Detroit native Big Sean headlined the show, marking a major homecoming performance for the rapper.
The Grammy-nominated artist brought high energy to the field, opening with his hit “Bounce Back” before transitioning into “I Don’t F*** With You,” which had the crowd singing along. The performance highlighted the pride of Detroit, with visuals of the city skyline displayed across massive LED screens.
Big Sean then introduced a surprise guest — Jelly Roll, one of the biggest breakout artists in country and rock. The two delivered a mashup that blended rap and Southern rock elements, performing Jelly Roll’s 2024 chart-topping single “Save Me.”
Their collaboration brought a cross-genre energy that perfectly reflected today’s evolving music scene. Fans at the stadium — and millions watching on CBS — praised the halftime spectacle as one of the most exciting Thanksgiving shows in recent years.
Dallas Cowboys Game: Carrie Underwood’s Electrifying Performance
The second major halftime show came from AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, where the Dallas Cowboys hosted the Miami Dolphins. This year’s Dallas performance continued the NFL’s long-running partnership with the Salvation Army Red Kettle Campaign, celebrating its 29th year.
Headlining the event was none other than Carrie Underwood, a seven-time Grammy winner and one of country music’s most recognizable voices.
Underwood opened her set with her classic hit “Before He Cheats”, followed by “Blown Away” and “Denim & Rhinestones.” The performance featured dazzling pyrotechnics, LED visuals, and hundreds of dancers dressed in glittering red and gold — a nod to the holiday theme.
Her finale, “Crazy Angels,” brought the stadium to its feet as confetti rained down in the signature Salvation Army red color.
In her post-performance interview, Underwood shared how special it was to perform on Thanksgiving Day, saying that the holiday is about “faith, gratitude, and giving back.” Her set not only entertained but also marked the official launch of the Salvation Army’s annual fundraising campaign.
Green Bay Packers Game: Jonas Brothers Bring Pop Energy to the Cold
The evening game featured the Green Bay Packers hosting the San Francisco 49ers at Lambeau Field — and despite freezing temperatures, the crowd was on fire for the performance by the Jonas Brothers.
This marked the band’s return to the Thanksgiving stage after their fan-favorite performance in 2021. The trio — Kevin, Joe, and Nick Jonas — performed a dynamic three-song medley, including “Waffle House,” “Sucker,” and their 2024 single “Wings.”
The brothers embraced the chill with matching Packers-themed winter jackets while delivering pitch-perfect harmonies and synchronized choreography. During the finale, snow began to fall lightly across the stadium — creating a cinematic moment that quickly trended across social media.
The group later posted behind-the-scenes clips of their performance, thanking fans and joking that “nothing says Thanksgiving like frostbite and fireworks.”
The Legacy of Thanksgiving Halftime Performances
Thanksgiving football halftime shows have become as iconic as the games themselves. What began decades ago as simple marching band performances has evolved into full-scale musical productions featuring global superstars.
Over the years, the Thanksgiving stage has hosted artists including:
- Kelly Clarkson (2022)
- Jack Harlow (2023)
- Dolly Parton (2023)
- Jon Bon Jovi (2024)
Each year, the NFL and its partners — particularly CBS, FOX, and NBC — compete to deliver unforgettable holiday entertainment that complements the spirit of the season.
In 2025, the production value reached new heights. From holographic stage effects to massive LED field designs, this year’s shows demonstrated how technology continues to redefine live performance experiences.
Behind the Scenes: Production and Preparation
The Thanksgiving halftime events involve weeks of preparation and coordination between artists, production crews, and the NFL’s entertainment division.
Each performance typically lasts between 7–10 minutes — but pulling them off requires over 400 stagehands, technicians, and choreographers working in perfect sync.
In Detroit, Big Sean’s production team incorporated over 250 LED panels and multiple pyrotechnic units. In Dallas, Carrie Underwood’s team rehearsed for several days to perfect timing and camera transitions for the live FOX broadcast.
Despite the short setup window between game quarters, stage crews executed flawless transitions — a testament to the professionalism behind these massive productions.
Fan Reactions Across the Country
Social media platforms lit up throughout Thanksgiving Day as fans shared reactions to each halftime performance.
Highlights included:
- Big Sean’s Detroit Homecoming: Trending at #1 on X (formerly Twitter) under “Detroit Pride.”
- Carrie Underwood’s Power Vocals: Her rendition of “Denim & Rhinestones” reached over 2 million views on TikTok within hours.
- Jonas Brothers’ Snow Finale: Fans praised the cinematic visuals, calling it “a Hallmark movie moment.”
Audiences also applauded the balance of genres represented — hip-hop, country, and pop — which made this year’s lineup appealing to viewers of all ages.
The NFL reported that combined viewership for all three halftime shows reached record levels, reinforcing Thanksgiving Day as one of television’s biggest live entertainment events.
What Makes These Performances Special
Thanksgiving halftime shows are more than just concerts — they’re cultural touchstones. They combine America’s favorite sport with music that unites millions of households.
Beyond the spectacle, the shows often serve a charitable purpose. The Dallas halftime partnership with the Salvation Army has raised over $3 billion since it began in 1997, funding meals, shelters, and disaster relief nationwide.
Meanwhile, in cities like Detroit and Green Bay, performances are deeply tied to local identity — celebrating community, resilience, and tradition. Halftime Show Thanksgiving 2025
Each act brings its own flavor:
- Big Sean symbolized hometown pride.
- Carrie Underwood represented generosity and grace.
- The Jonas Brothers embodied joyful nostalgia for younger fans.
Together, they made Thanksgiving 2025’s halftime shows not just entertaining, but meaningful.
Looking Ahead to 2026
While official announcements for next year’s performers have not yet been made, speculation is already building about who could headline Thanksgiving 2026. Halftime Show Thanksgiving 2025
Given the rising popularity of artists like Morgan Wallen, Doja Cat, and Luke Combs, fans are hopeful for another diverse lineup that blends country, pop, and contemporary hits.
The NFL’s entertainment division continues to promise bigger and more inclusive productions, reflecting the league’s effort to make Thanksgiving not just a sports holiday — but a celebration of American music and culture.
This year’s halftime performances captured everything fans love about Thanksgiving — unity, tradition, and unforgettable music. Which 2025 show was your favorite? Share your thoughts in the comments and join the conversation celebrating another year of football and live entertainment.
