What Is Thanksgiving?

Thanksgiving is a national holiday celebrated primarily in the United States on the fourth Thursday of November. It originated as a harvest festival and has evolved into a day for expressing gratitude for the blessings of the past year.

Historical Roots

The most commonly referenced origin of Thanksgiving dates back to 1621, when the Pilgrims at Plymouth Colony shared an autumn harvest feast with the Wampanoag Native Americans. This event is often considered the first Thanksgiving, though similar celebrations occurred earlier in other parts of North America.

Modern Traditions

Today, Thanksgiving is marked by family gatherings, festive meals featuring roast turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie. Many people also watch the annual Thanksgiving Day Parade or football games, and some participate in charitable activities such as serving meals at shelters.

A Time for Reflection

Beyond the food and festivities, Thanksgiving offers a moment to pause and reflect on what we are thankful for—family, friends, health, and community. In a fast-paced world, this tradition of gratitude remains deeply meaningful.