What is Thanksgiving Day?

Thanksgiving Day is a national holiday celebrated primarily in the United States on the fourth Thursday of November. It originated as a harvest festival and has been celebrated nationally since 1863.

Historical Background

The most commonly told story of the first Thanksgiving took place in 1621, when Pilgrims from the Plymouth Colony shared an autumn harvest feast with the Wampanoag Native Americans. This event is often cited as one of the first Thanksgiving celebrations in the colonies.

Modern Traditions

Today, Thanksgiving is celebrated with family gatherings, feasting (typically featuring roast turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie), watching parades like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, and football games. Many also take time to express what they are thankful for.

The Spirit of Gratitude

At its core, Thanksgiving is about giving thanks—for blessings, community, and the abundance of the year. It serves as a reminder to appreciate what we have and to share with others in need.