Miranda Lambert will headline the Dallas Cowboys' Thanksgiving Day halftime show this year, performing at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, when the team hosts the Philadelphia Eagles on Thursday, November 26, 2026. The country star will take the stage for the nationally televised show, marking the 30th consecutive Salvation Army Red Kettle Kickoff Halftime Show.
The tradition began in 1997 at Texas Stadium with Reba McEntire and launches The Salvation Army's 136th Red Kettle Campaign, which raises funds for people in need. Lambert, a multi-platinum artist and three-time Grammy winner, grew up in East Texas, about an hour east of Dallas.
Her announcement carries a hometown flavor, and she said she cannot wait to be "back home in Texas this Thanksgiving to help carry it forward." She also spoke about the occasion, saying music brings people together in a special way, particularly when it spreads joy and hope to families who need it most.
The halftime slot has grown into one of the most prominent spots on the American country and pop calendar. Previous performers include Beyoncé and Destiny's Child, Dolly Parton, Carrie Underwood, Post Malone, who played last year, Lainey Wilson in 2024, and the Jonas Brothers, who appeared in 2008 and 2022.
The idea of turning the halftime show into the campaign's kickoff came from Charlotte Jones, the Cowboys' chief brand officer and co-owner, who is a former national advisory board chairman for The Salvation Army. Fans across the country look forward to this iconic event every year, blending professional football with high-energy musical entertainment.
The collaboration between the sports franchise and the charitable organization has raised millions of dollars over the decades. Organizers expect tens of thousands of fans to fill the stadium seats while millions more tune in from their homes across the United States.
Security arrangements and logistical preparations are already underway to ensure a smooth event. Lambert's unique vocal style and deep connection to her home state make her an ideal choice for this milestone anniversary performance.
Her recent musical projects have received critical acclaim and commercial success nationwide. As the holiday season approaches, ticket sales and promotional activities for the game and the halftime show are ramping up significantly.
The Dallas Cowboys organization remains committed to maintaining this proud annual tradition for years to come. Ultimately, the combination of sports competition, festive celebration, and charitable giving embodies the true spirit of Thanksgiving for millions of American families watching the broadcast.