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 been observed nationally since 1863, after a proclamation by President Abraham Lincoln.

Traditions and Customs

Families and friends gather for a traditional meal that usually includes roast turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie. Many also take time to express what they are thankful for, watch parades like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, or enjoy American football games.

A Message of Gratitude

At its heart, Thanksgiving is about giving thanks—for the blessings of the past year, for loved ones, and for the simple joys of life. In a fast-paced world, it offers a moment to pause, reflect, and connect.