Thanksgiving is more than just a day for turkey and pumpkin pie; it’s a holiday steeped in history, traditions, and gratitude. As we prepare to gather around the table on November 28, 2024, let’s dive into the origins of this quintessentially American holiday, its customs, and some little-known facts that make Thanksgiving unique.
The History of Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving’s roots go back to 1621 when the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag people shared an autumn harvest feast in Plymouth, Massachusetts. While many of us imagine a turkey-laden banquet, the actual meal likely consisted of venison, wildfowl, corn, and seafood.
Interestingly, the Pilgrims did not refer to this feast as Thanksgiving. For them, “Thanksgiving” meant religious observances of prayer and fasting rather than feasting. The event we celebrate today was more of a harvest festival, a common practice in Europe at the time.
Thanksgiving became a national holiday only in 1863, when President Abraham Lincoln, during the Civil War, declared it a day of gratitude and unity. This proclamation came after years of campaigning by Sarah Josepha Hale, a magazine editor often referred to as the “Mother of Thanksgiving.” She spent nearly 20 years writing to presidents, urging them to establish a national day of thanks.
Thanksgiving Traditions
The traditions of Thanksgiving are as diverse as the families who celebrate it. Here are a few customs that have become staples of the holiday.
The Turkey Feast
Turkey has been synonymous with Thanksgiving since the 1800s. According to the National Turkey Federation (yes, it’s a real organization), approximately 46 million turkeys are consumed each Thanksgiving. But why turkey? It’s believed that turkeys were abundant and large enough to feed an entire family, making them the ideal centerpiece for the feast.
Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
Launched in 1924, Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has become a symbol of the holiday season. What began as a promotional event featuring live animals from the Central Park Zoo now includes giant balloons, elaborate floats, and celebrity performances. For many, the parade marks the unofficial start of Christmas.
Football and Thanksgiving
Watching football on Thanksgiving has been a tradition since the early 20th century. The Detroit Lions have hosted a Thanksgiving Day game since 1934, creating a lasting sports tradition.
The Presidential Turkey Pardon
Each year, the President of the United States “pardons” a turkey, sparing it from becoming dinner. This quirky tradition, known as the Presidential Turkey Pardon, was officially started by President George H.W. Bush in 1989.
Black Friday Eve
Though not technically part of Thanksgiving, the evening of the holiday has become synonymous with early Black Friday shopping. Many Americans finish their meals and head to stores for deals or shop online from the comfort of their couches.
What We Eat and Why
A Thanksgiving meal is a culinary celebration in itself. While turkey takes center stage, side dishes and desserts are just as important.
- Stuffing. Recipes vary widely by region. Northerners often use bread-based stuffing, while Southerners prefer cornbread dressing.
- Cranberry Sauce. Originally introduced by Native Americans, cranberries were used as both food and dye. Today, this tart condiment is a Thanksgiving staple.
- Mashed Potatoes and Gravy. Comfort food at its finest, this pairing is a must-have on most tables.
- Pumpkin Pie. Pumpkins were part of Native American diets long before Europeans arrived. Today, pumpkin pie is the crown jewel of Thanksgiving desserts.
Interesting Thanksgiving Facts
The First TV Dinner Was Inspired by Thanksgiving. In 1953, Swanson overestimated the number of frozen turkeys needed for Thanksgiving, leaving the company with 260 tons of surplus birds. Their solution? Package the leftovers into what became the first-ever TV dinner.
Thanksgiving Was Once Celebrated in October. Before Lincoln’s proclamation, states celebrated Thanksgiving on various dates. Some Southern states even held it in October.
Californians Consume the Most Turkey. Surprisingly, California leads the nation in turkey consumption, likely due to its large population and diverse culinary traditions.
Thanksgiving Was Rescheduled During WWII. In 1941, President Franklin D. Roosevelt moved Thanksgiving to the third Thursday of November to extend the holiday shopping season. The move was controversial, and Congress later solidified the fourth Thursday as the official date.
Benjamin Franklin Wanted the Turkey as the National Bird. Franklin admired the turkey’s resourcefulness and rejected the bald eagle, calling it a bird of “bad moral character.” However, some historians believe this story to be a myth.
Thanksgiving Trends for 2024
Thanksgiving evolves with each generation, and 2024 is no exception. Here are a few new trends:
- Plant-Based Feasts. With the rise of plant-based diets, many families are opting for meatless mains like lentil loaf or stuffed squash.
- Friendsgiving. Celebrated in the weeks leading up to Thanksgiving, these casual gatherings among friends have become a cultural phenomenon.
- Tech-Enhanced Traditions. Technology is playing an increasingly significant role in celebrations, from virtual cooking classes to interactive Thanksgiving games.
Global Flavors. Families are increasingly incorporating international dishes into their Thanksgiving spreads, reflecting America’s melting-pot culture.
Whether you’re celebrating with family, friends, or a mix of both, Thanksgiving is a day to reflect on what truly matters. It’s a reminder that even in challenging times, there’s always something to be thankful for.
So, as you gather around the table this year, take a moment to appreciate the history, traditions, and people that make Thanksgiving special. After all, Thanksgiving is a testament to the enduring power of gratitude and togetherness.
Happy Thanksgiving 2024!
