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 of giving thanks for the blessings of the year, often marked by a large meal shared with family and friends.

History of Thanksgiving

The most commonly referenced origin of Thanksgiving dates back to 1621, when Pilgrims and Wampanoag Native Americans shared an autumn harvest feast in Plymouth, Massachusetts. While this event was not called “Thanksgiving” at the time, it became symbolic of cooperation and gratitude. Thanksgiving was officially established as a national holiday by President Abraham Lincoln in 1863.

Traditional Foods

A typical Thanksgiving meal includes roasted turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, gravy, and pumpkin pie. Regional and family variations abound, but the centerpiece remains the shared experience of a home-cooked feast.

Celebrating with Gratitude

Beyond the meal, many families use Thanksgiving as an opportunity to reflect on what they are thankful for. Some share gratitude around the table, volunteer at community events, or watch the annual Thanksgiving Day Parade or football games.