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 evolved into a day for expressing gratitude for the blessings of the past year.

History

The most commonly recounted origin of Thanksgiving in America traces back to a 1621 harvest feast shared by the Pilgrims of Plymouth Colony and the Wampanoag people. While earlier thanksgiving services had been held by Spanish and French explorers, this event became symbolic of cooperation and survival.

Modern Traditions

Today, Thanksgiving is marked by family gatherings, feasting (typically featuring roast turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie), watching parades such as the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, and enjoying American football games. Many also take time to volunteer or donate to those in need.

A Message of Gratitude

At its heart, Thanksgiving reminds us to pause and appreciate what we have—our families, friends, health, and community. In a fast-paced world, it offers a moment of reflection and connection.