Great American Smokeout 2026: The Date, a Simple Quit Plan and Day-One Reminders

The American Cancer Society holds the Great American Smokeout on the third Thursday of November. In 2026 that is Thursday, November 19, exactly one week before Thanksgiving. The idea is simple: use the day to take a first step toward quitting. Here is what the ACS suggests and how to set the day up so it's easier to get through.

The date and what the day is for

The ACS describes the Smokeout as an annual event that encourages people who smoke to take a step toward quitting. Because it's tied to the third Thursday, the 2026 date is November 19. (Some listing sites show November 20 in their page title, but the rule gives the 19th.)

The ACS also says you don't have to stop in one day. Its "Start Day One" approach is about beginning, not about being perfect from the first hour.

What the American Cancer Society suggests

• Use a plan and support. The ACS offers a free email program called Empowered to Quit.
• Talk to someone. You can call 1-800-227-2345 or use live chat on cancer.org (weekdays, 7:00 am to 6:30 pm Central).
• Consider counseling and medication. The ACS says counseling and medication can double or triple your chances of quitting successfully. Ask a doctor or pharmacist which options suit you.

For the full guide, see cancer.org/smokeout.

A simple plan for the week before

These steps are practical suggestions, not medical advice:

• Pick your plan now. Decide whether you're trying 24 hours without tobacco or setting a quit date, and tell one person.
• Book the support. Call the number above or message your doctor or pharmacist before the 19th, not on the day.
• Prepare the day. Plan what you'll do at the times you usually smoke, such as after coffee or on the drive home.
• Remove cues. Clear lighters and ashtrays the evening before.

Reminders that help on the day

A few well-timed prompts are easier than relying on willpower all day:

• The evening before (Wednesday 18th): "Tomorrow is my Smokeout day. Clear lighters and ashtrays."
• Morning of the 19th: "Day one. Start with the plan and one text to my support person."
• Usual smoking times: a short prompt such as "Walk for 5 minutes or drink water".
• Evening: "How did today go? Write down one thing that worked."
• The next morning: "Day two. Keep going."

Frequently asked questions

When is the Great American Smokeout in 2026? Thursday, November 19, 2026, the third Thursday of November.

Do I have to quit completely on that day? No. The ACS says you don't have to stop in one day, and that the aim is to start with day one.

Who can I call for support? The American Cancer Society's number is 1-800-227-2345. Your doctor or pharmacist can also explain counseling and medication.

Do counseling and medication help? The ACS says they can double or triple the chances of quitting successfully.

Is this medical advice? No. This is general information based on ACS guidance. Talk to a health professional about what is right for you.

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