Grocery stores battle for Thanksgiving shoppers: Here's where to find the best deals

There is a battle being waged at the grocery store - All the major stores and big box retailers are competing for your Thanksgiving dollars. They're cutting prices and offering deals to get you in the door.

The trend is to get you to shop earlier this year. Stores have been rolling out sales on typical Thanksgiving items all month long.

There is some good news for shoppers. Food price inflation has moderated over the past year to 1.3% which is well below inflation. The price of turkeys is down 16% from a year ago, according to a Wells Fargo Agri-Food Institute report. But not all items on your Thanksgiving table will be lower this year. So you will have to be a savvy shopper to scoop up the best deals.

Turkeys are averaging $1.37 per pound.

But you may be able to get one for free - Several retailers are giving them away.

BJ's is giving members a free Butterball turkey with $150 spent in November.

Giant and Safeway have similar deals.

You may find a great deal on a bundled prepared meal.

Target has a Thanksgiving meal bundle for $20. That price is $5. lower than last year. The meal feeds four people and includes turkey and all the fixings.

Walmart is offering an inflation-free Thanksgiving from now until Christmas Eve. It includes 29 items and serves 8 people for less than $7 per person.

Aldi is offering its lowest-priced Thanksgiving meal in five years, undercutting Walmart. It feeds 10 people for $4.70 per person.

Sam's Club's meal for members, feeds up to 10 people for under $100.

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Safeway's meal serves 6-8 people for under $70.

But while turkey prices are down, that doesn't mean the rest of the items for your Thanksgiving dinner will also be good deals. Russet potatoes, leafy greens, canned green beans, canned pumpkin, and beer will all cost you more this year, according to Swanson.

And if you prefer ham to turkey, you'll pay more for that too this year. Ham prices are up 5.2%.

Experts say the key to maximizing your dollars is to keep your eye out for savings at several different retailers, shop early, buy in bulk, and don't be loyal to brands.