What Is Thanksgiving?
Thanksgiving is a national holiday celebrated primarily in the United States on the fourth Thursday of November. It is a day for giving thanks for the blessings of the harvest and the preceding year.
Historical Origins
The most commonly told story of Thanksgiving dates back to 1621, when the Pilgrims of Plymouth Colony shared an autumn harvest feast with the Wampanoag Native Americans. This event is often considered one of the first Thanksgiving celebrations in the colonies.
However, days of thanksgiving were regularly observed throughout early American history. It wasn’t until 1863 that President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed a national Thanksgiving Day to be held each November.
Modern Traditions
Today, Thanksgiving is marked by family gatherings, feasting, and expressions of gratitude. The traditional meal often includes roast turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, sweet potatoes, 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 community centers.
Why It Matters
Beyond the feast and festivities, Thanksgiving offers a moment to pause and reflect on what we are grateful for—family, friends, health, and community. In its spirit, it encourages generosity and togetherness.