What is Thanksgiving?
Thanksgiving is a national holiday celebrated mainly in the United States and Canada. In the U.S., it is observed on the fourth Thursday of November. It is a time for families and friends to gather, share a meal, and give thanks for the blessings of the past year.
Common Thanksgiving Vocabulary
- Thanksgiving Day – The holiday itself
- Turkey – The traditional main dish
- Stuffing – A mixture cooked inside the turkey
- Cranberry sauce – A sweet red sauce made from cranberries
- Pumpkin pie – A classic dessert
- Gravy – A sauce made from turkey drippings
- Cornucopia – A symbol of abundance, often filled with fruits and vegetables
- Harvest – The gathering of crops, historically linked to Thanksgiving
Useful Phrases
- "Happy Thanksgiving!" – A common greeting during the holiday.
- "I’m thankful for..." – Used to express gratitude.
- "What are you thankful for this year?" – A typical conversation starter.
- "Let’s give thanks." – Said before the meal begins.
Fun Facts
- The first Thanksgiving was celebrated in 1621 by the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag people.
- President Abraham Lincoln declared Thanksgiving a national holiday in 1863.
- The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City is a famous annual event.
- Many Americans watch football on Thanksgiving Day.