Who is singing the national anthem at the Packers vs Lions game on Thanksgiving?
The Thanksgiving Day game in Detroit will feature native artists, including one famous gospel singer to kick things off right ahead of the Lions-Packers.
It’s finally Thanksgiving and that means it’s time for some Detroit Lions football! They face the Green Bay Packers this year, which marks their 86th annual Thanksgiving Day game. As is typical, the Lions will have artists native to Detroit performing before and during the game.
CeCe Winans to perform national anthem at Lions-Packers Thanksgiving Day game
Ahead of the Lions vs Packers game, gospel legend CeCe Winans will sing the National Anthem. Winans, now 61 years old, grew up in the Motor City watching Lions games with her family.
The first Noel the angel did say
— CeCe Winans (@cecewinans) November 22, 2025
Was to certain poor shepherds
In fields as they lay
The Official Music Video for 'The First Noel' is out now on my Youtube Channel! #TheFirstNoel #Hymns #CeCeWinans pic.twitter.com/eFBgty8El2
“I grew up in Detroit in a house with Mom, Dad, seven brothers and two sisters. Every Thanksgiving was all about gratefulness to God, family, food and football,” Winans said in a statement.
“The Lions games were on all the time in our home. The idea that my family and I are part of such a rich heritage of music flowing from our hometown is so amazing and we thank God every day,” she said.
Winans’ four-decade career includes 17 Grammy Awards, 33 Dove Awards, and inductions into the Gospel Music Hall of Fame and the Hollywood Walk of Fame, cementing her as one of Detroit’s most influential musical figures.
Winans said she is honored to return home for the holiday tradition. At halftime, Detroit native and White Stripes co-founder Jack White will perform.
This year’s game also adds a charitable focus. For the first time, the Lions are partnering with Feeding America to fight nationwide food insecurity, encouraging viewers to donate during the broadcast. Verizon will also host a volunteer station at Pride Plaza outside Ford Field, where fans can help assemble hunger-relief kits before kickoff.
The Lions-Packers Thanksgiving Day game gets underway a half-hour later than usual this year, and will kick off at 1 p.m. ET from Ford Field.
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