Thanksgiving is one of the most celebrated holidays in the United States, bringing families and friends together for a day filled with gratitude, food, and fun. While it’s best known for its turkey feasts and cozy gatherings, there’s a lot more to Thanksgiving than meets the eye. Here are some fun and surprising facts about this American tradition to spark your interest.
1. The First Thanksgiving Wasn’t Just About Turkey
The first Thanksgiving feast in 1621, shared between the Pilgrims and Native Americans, likely featured venison, fish, and seasonal vegetables like squash and corn. Turkey wasn’t the star of the show—it only became a Thanksgiving staple later.
2. It Wasn’t Always in November
Thanksgiving didn’t have a fixed date until 1863, when President Abraham Lincoln declared it a national holiday to be celebrated on the last Thursday of November. Before that, it was celebrated irregularly.
3. A Day for Eating—A Lot!
Americans eat around 46 million turkeys on Thanksgiving Day! That’s roughly one turkey for every seven people in the country. Add to that millions of pumpkin pies, mashed potatoes, and cranberry sauce servings.
4. The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
The famous Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade has been a tradition since 1924. It features giant helium balloons of cartoon characters, live music, and marching bands. It’s broadcast across the U.S. and watched by millions every year.
5. Football and Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving is also about football! The NFL has hosted Thanksgiving Day games since 1920, making it a must-watch tradition for sports fans.
6. Turkey Gets a Presidential Pardon
Each year, the U.S. President pardons a turkey, sparing it from becoming dinner. This quirky tradition began in 1989 under President George H.W. Bush.
Celebrate Your Way
While Thanksgiving is an American tradition, its message of gratitude and togetherness is universal. Whether it’s with friends, family, or classmates, it’s a great opportunity to pause, reflect, and appreciate the people and things that bring joy to your life.
References
- History.com Editors. (2021) Thanksgiving 2021. Available at: https://www.history.com/topics/thanksgiving/history-of-thanksgiving (Accessed: 27 November 2024).
- Macy’s. (2024) Thanksgiving Day Parade. Available at: https://www.macys.com/social/parade/ (Accessed: 27 November 2024).
- National Turkey Federation. (2024) Turkey Facts. Available at: https://www.eatturkey.org (Accessed: 27 November 2024).
- NFL. (2024) Thanksgiving Football Tradition. Available at: https://www.nfl.com/history (Accessed: 27 November 2024).
