Before the turkey is carved and families gather around the Thanksgiving table, another beloved tradition takes center stage across Connecticut: high school football.
For generations, Thanksgiving week has brought together hometown rivals, former classmates, families, and friends. From the excitement of a Wednesday night matchup to the crisp autumn air of Thanksgiving morning, these games are about much more than the final score.
Whether you're cheering on your alma mater, supporting a local team, or simply enjoying the community spirit, here's a look at some of the Thanksgiving football traditions taking place across Connecticut in 2026, with a special focus on Central Connecticut, Greater Hartford, and the Farmington Valley.
Central Connecticut & Greater Hartford
Some of the area's best-known rivalries take place throughout Thanksgiving week, giving local families plenty of opportunities to enjoy a game before the holiday celebrations begin.
| Date & Time | Matchup | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Sat., Nov. 21 1:00 PM |
Hall at Conard | Conard High School 110 Beechwood Road West Hartford, CT |
| Wed., Nov. 25 6:00 PM |
Farmington at Plainville | Tinty Stadium Plainville High School 47 Robert Holcomb Way Plainville, CT |
| Wed., Nov. 25 6:00 PM |
Rocky Hill at Cromwell/Portland | Cromwell High School 34 Evergreen Road Cromwell, CT Field assignment to be confirmed |
| Thu., Nov. 26 10:00 AM |
Southington at Cheshire | Cheshire High School 525 South Main Street Cheshire, CT Exact field to be confirmed |
| Thu., Nov. 26 10:30 AM |
Maloney at Platt | Meriden, CT 2026 field assignment to be confirmed |
| Thu., Nov. 26 10:30 AM |
Bristol Central at Bristol Eastern | Bristol, CT Game field to be confirmed |
Farmington Valley
In the Farmington Valley, Avon and Lewis S. Mills continue their holiday-week football matchup, bringing together families and supporters from neighboring communities.
| Date & Time | Matchup | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Tue., Nov. 24 6:00 PM |
Avon at Lewis S. Mills | Lewis S. Mills High School 26 Lyon Road Burlington, CT |
More Connecticut Thanksgiving Rivalries
Beyond Greater Hartford, several longstanding rivalries draw fans from throughout the state on Thanksgiving morning.
| Date & Time | Matchup | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Thu., Nov. 26 10:00 AM |
Ansonia at Naugatuck | Naugatuck, CT Game field to be confirmed |
| Thu., Nov. 26 10:00 AM |
Shelton at Amity Regional | Amity Regional High School 25 Newton Road Woodbridge, CT Exact field to be confirmed |
| Thu., Nov. 26 10:00 AM |
West Haven at North Haven | North Haven, CT Game field to be confirmed |
| Thu., Nov. 26 10:00 AM |
Lyman Hall at Sheehan | Wallingford, CT Game field to be confirmed |
Schedule note: Games, kickoff times, and locations may change. Please confirm details with the participating schools before attending.
Another Connecticut Thanksgiving Classic
The Manchester Road Race
Football isn't the only Thanksgiving morning tradition that brings Connecticut communities together. The Manchester Road Race has become a holiday favorite for runners, walkers, families, and spectators.
The 2026 race takes place on Thursday, November 26, at 10:00 AM, following its familiar 4.737-mile route through Manchester. Known for its enthusiastic crowds, costumes, music, and community spirit, it's a wonderful way to celebrate Thanksgiving morning.
More Than Just a Football Game
What makes Thanksgiving football so special isn't simply the competition. It's the familiar faces in the stands, the school colors worn with pride, the generations of families cheering together, and the memories that return year after year.
Whether you're heading to a local game, participating in a Turkey Trot, or gathering with family and friends, here's wishing you a wonderful Thanksgiving filled with community, connection, and traditions worth celebrating.