Thanksgiving Day is one of the most cherished and festive holidays in the United States. Celebrated every fourth Thursday of November, it is a time when families and friends gather to share food, reflect on blessings, and enjoy a slower pace before the busy holiday season begins. While most people associate Thanksgiving with turkey, pie, parades, and football, the holiday carries a deep sense of gratitude and togetherness that makes it truly special.
At its heart, Thanksgiving is about pausing to acknowledge both the big and small gifts that life brings. Whether it’s family, health, friendships, or even the simple joy of surviving a chaotic year, Thanksgiving invites everyone to take a moment to appreciate the good.
History of Thanksgiving Day
The story of Thanksgiving dates back to 1621, when the Pilgrims, early English settlers, shared an autumn harvest feast with the Wampanoag Native Americans. After a difficult first winter and a year of learning how to cultivate the land, the Pilgrims celebrated with a three-day feast to give thanks for the harvest and the help they received from the Wampanoag people.
Although this 1621 gathering is often referred to as the “First Thanksgiving,” the holiday did not become a regular national celebration until much later. In 1863, during the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln declared Thanksgiving a national holiday to promote unity and gratitude during one of the most challenging times in American history. His proclamation established the tradition of an annual day of thanks for all Americans. Later, in 1941, the U.S. Congress officially set Thanksgiving as the fourth Thursday of November, a date that continues to this day.
Fun Facts About Thanksgiving Day
1. The first feast didn’t have turkey
Historical records suggest the 1621 meal included venison, fish, and seasonal vegetables, but probably no turkey.
2. The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade began in 1924
Originally featuring animals from the Central Park Zoo, it has grown into a beloved tradition with balloons, floats, and performances watched by millions every year.
3. Americans eat around 46 million turkeys each Thanksgiving
That’s roughly one turkey for every seven people in the country.
4. The tradition of football games goes back to 1876
The first Thanksgiving football game was played between Yale and Princeton, and today it remains one of the holiday’s biggest traditions.
5. The Presidential Turkey Pardon is surprisingly modern
Although presidents occasionally spared turkeys throughout history, the official annual “pardon” became formal during the George H.W. Bush administration in 1989.
How to Celebrate Thanksgiving Day
Host or Share a Meal
The iconic Thanksgiving dinner often includes turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie. But every family brings its own twist; some add mac and cheese, or even seafood.
Practice Gratitude
Start a gratitude circle where each person shares something they’re thankful for. This simple exercise can set a positive tone for the holiday.
Enjoy Entertainment
Watch the Macy’s Parade, join the football fans, or choose a cozy family movie after the feast.
Give Back
Thanksgiving is a great time to volunteer at a shelter, donate food, or support a local charity. Giving to others deepens the spirit of gratitude.
Create Traditions
Whether it’s a family walk, a board game, a “funny stories from the kitchen” session, or a post-dinner nap tradition, these small rituals make the day more meaningful.
What greater blessing to give thanks for at a family gathering than the family and the gathering. Robert Brault
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Rae Aria holds a bachelor’s degree in English and Literary Studies and enjoys writing family-oriented topics. When she’s not writing or working as an editor on Support for Stepdads, she enjoys spending time with her two sons and reading a variety of subjects.
