Hello there! Thanksgiving is just around the corner, which means it’s time to bust out your favorite sweaters, prepare for the Black Friday chaos, and start dreaming about that succulent turkey with all the trimmings. But have you ever wondered what makes this day so special? Why do we gather around a bountiful table each year to give thanks? Well, let’s take a journey together to explore the history, traditions, and delights of this beloved holiday!
Section 1 – The Origin Story
Thanksgiving Day can be traced back to 1621 when English Pilgrims celebrated their first successful harvest in Plymouth. However, it wasn’t until 1863 during Abraham Lincoln’s presidency that Thanksgiving was officially declared a national holiday. In an attempt to bring unity amidst the Civil War’s chaos, President Lincoln named the last Thursday of November as a day of thanksgiving.
Section 2 – Food Glorious Food!
Think Thanksgiving and your mind will likely wander straight to food – glorious food! Yes indeed folks; let’s talk turkey (and cranberry sauce…and pumpkin pie…). The traditional Thanksgiving dinner typically includes roast turkey stuffed with savory dressing made from bread crumbs or cubes mixed with onions, celery and spices. This is often served alongside mashed potatoes drenched in gravy. For veggie lovers there’s usually green beans or Brussels sprouts on offer too.
Subsection: Beyond Turkey
But it’s not all about turkey; many families also enjoy ham or roast beef as part of their festive feast. As for dessert – well where do we even begin? Pumpkin pie is an absolute must-have but plenty of tables are also graced with pecan pie or apple pie. Some households even put their own unique spin on dessert such as making sweet potato pie or a decadent chocolate cake.
Section 3 – The Parade and Football
Thanksgiving Day would not be complete without the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Since its inception in 1924, millions of Americans gather around their TV sets to watch gigantic balloons, elaborate floats, marching bands, and Broadway show performances parade down New York City’s streets. Don’t forget football! With games starting early afternoon and running late into the evening, sports enthusiasts are guaranteed a day filled with action-packed entertainment.
Section 4 – Giving Thanks
At its core though is the act of giving thanks. It’s a time for us to reflect on our blessings and appreciate what we have. Many families have a tradition where they go around the table during dinner and everyone shares what they’re thankful for. It’s also a time of charitable acts as many volunteer at local shelters or donate food to ensure those less fortunate can also enjoy a hearty meal.
Section 5 – Black Friday
Post-Thanksgiving comes Black Friday which offers bargain hunters some fantastic deals. Originally named ‘Black Friday’ because it allowed stores to move from the “red” into the “black,” it has now become an integral part of many people’s Thanksgiving traditions (or weekend nightmares depending on your perspective!).
Conclusion
So there you have it folks; that’s your full guide to Thanksgiving! From feasting on traditional foods, watching parades and football games, giving thanks for our blessings to braving Black Friday – there’s something for everyone this holiday season. No matter how you choose to celebrate this Thanksgiving Day just remember at its heart it’s about gratitude. So here’s wishing all of you a Happy Turkey Day filled with love, laughter…and seconds on pie!
Happy Thanksgiving!
