What Is Thanksgiving?
Thanksgiving is a national holiday celebrated primarily in the United States and Canada. It originated as a harvest festival and is now a day to give thanks for the blessings of the past year, often marked by a shared meal with loved ones.
History of Thanksgiving
The most commonly referenced origin of Thanksgiving in the U.S. dates back to 1621, when Pilgrims and Wampanoag Native Americans shared an autumn harvest feast in Plymouth, Massachusetts. Although this event was not called "Thanksgiving" at the time, it has become symbolic of the holiday's spirit of cooperation and gratitude.
Thanksgiving became a federal holiday in the United States in 1863, during the Civil War, when President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed a national day of “Thanksgiving and Praise.”
Modern Traditions
Today, Thanksgiving is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November in the U.S. Common traditions include:
- Sharing a meal featuring roast turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie
- Expressing what you are thankful for
- Watching the Thanksgiving Day Parade or football games
- Volunteering or donating to those in need
The Spirit of Gratitude
Beyond the feast and festivities, Thanksgiving encourages reflection on the good in our lives. In a fast-paced world, it offers a meaningful pause to appreciate family, community, and simple joys.