History of the celebration and traditions of Thanksgiving Day

Thanksgiving is a national holiday primarily celebrated in the United States, Canada, and several other countries. It is dedicated to expressing gratitude for the harvest, successes, and well-being, as well as for loved ones and important moments in life.

The History of Thanksgiving Origins of the Holiday:

The first known celebration of Thanksgiving in North America is associated with 1621, when English settlers, the Pilgrims (whose arrival marks the founding of Plymouth Colony), held a festive meal together with the local Native Americans of the Wampanoag tribe. This was a gesture of gratitude for the help they received in growing crops on the new land.
This meal included autumnal gifts such as turkey, corn, and pumpkin, which later became symbols of the holiday.

Formalization of the Holiday:

• In the United States, Thanksgiving became an official holiday in 1863 thanks to President Abraham Lincoln, who declared it a national day of gratitude, unity, and prayer.
• In Canada, Thanksgiving was officially established in 1879.

When is it Celebrated

• United States: Celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November.
• Canada: Celebrated on the second Monday of October.
• In some other countries, such as Liberia, Thanksgiving is also observed, but the dates and traditions may differ.

 

Thanksgiving Traditions Family Dinners:

The centerpiece of the holiday is the meal, where the whole family gathers. Traditional dishes include turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, pies (especially pumpkin and apple), corn, and vegetables.

Expressions of Gratitude:

Families often begin their meal by sharing what they are thankful for over the past year.

The Macy’s Parade in New York:

One of the most famous parades takes place in New York City, organized by Macy’s. This parade features giant balloons, floats with performers, and marching bands.

Football:

Watching American football has become an integral part of Thanksgiving in the United States.

Charity:

Many people participate in volunteer programs, distribute food to those in need, or make donations on this day.

The “Turkey Pardon”:

The President of the United States holds a ceremony to “pardon” one turkey, symbolically sparing it from being eaten on Thanksgiving.

 

Where It Is Celebrated:

United States: Thanksgiving is most widely observed here, with great cultural and historical significance.
Canada: Celebrated as a time to give thanks for the harvest and nature.
Liberia: Established as an adaptation of the American Thanksgiving.
The Netherlands: Some Dutch people observe Thanksgiving in memory of the Pilgrims, who lived in Leiden before sailing to America.

 

Modern Meaning:

Today, Thanksgiving is not only a day to give thanks for the harvest but also a time to strengthen family bonds and express gratitude for life and loved ones. It is also associated with the start of the Christmas season: the next day, “Black Friday,” marks the beginning of major holiday sales.