Thanksgiving Day, one of the most anticipated holidays in the United States, will be celebrated on November 28, 2024. Observed annually on the fourth Thursday of November, it is a time to give thanks for the harvest and blessings of the past year. While Thanksgiving is a national holiday in the U.S. and Canada, it has also gained popularity worldwide. The day is filled with family gatherings, festive meals, and, of course, football.
History of Thanksgiving: From Harvest Feasts to National Holiday
The origins of Thanksgiving date back to 1621, when Plymouth colonists and the Wampanoag people shared a feast to celebrate the autumn harvest. This gathering is often recognized as one of the first Thanksgiving celebrations in the American colonies. Over the next two centuries, various colonies and states observed days of thanksgiving.
However, it wasn’t until 1863, during the U.S. Civil War, that President Abraham Lincoln declared Thanksgiving a national holiday. Lincoln established the day as an official occasion for Americans to pause and reflect on their blessings, which included harvest celebrations and a day of rest.
Traditions of Thanksgiving: Feasts, Family, and Fun
Today, Thanksgiving is synonymous with family gatherings, hearty meals, and fun-filled activities. The most iconic food items on the Thanksgiving table include roast turkey, pumpkin pie, cranberry sauce, stuffing, and mashed potatoes. Families often come together to enjoy a large meal, play games, watch football, and simply spend quality time together.
In recent years, Thanksgiving also marks the beginning of the holiday shopping season, with Black Friday following right after. Many retailers offer significant discounts on this day, making it a major event for shoppers.
Controversy Surrounding Thanksgiving
Despite its celebratory nature, Thanksgiving is not without controversy. For many Native Americans, the holiday represents a painful reminder of the history of colonization and oppression. The feast between the Plymouth colonists and the Wampanoag people, while seen as a symbol of cooperation by some, masks the complex and often violent relationship between European settlers and Native Americans that followed.
Many Americans, particularly those of Native American descent, use Thanksgiving as an opportunity to reflect on the true history of these events and raise awareness about the ongoing challenges faced by indigenous communities.
Sending Thanksgiving Wishes
Whether you’re celebrating with loved ones or reflecting on the year, Thanksgiving is a time for gratitude and togetherness. Here are a few Thanksgiving messages to share:
- “We are so thankful for you and your family. Wishing you peace and warmth this Thanksgiving!”
- “Happy Thanksgiving! May your day be filled with love, laughter, and delicious food!”
- “Wishing you a safe and happy Thanksgiving! Enjoy the warmth of your family and friends.”
- “Grateful for your kindness this year. Have a joyful Thanksgiving!”
A Time for Reflection and Thanks
Thanksgiving remains a cherished holiday in the United States and Canada, celebrated with food, family, and gratitude. While it’s a time to reflect on the blessings of the past year, it’s also an opportunity to acknowledge the complex history that shaped the holiday. Whether you’re enjoying a traditional feast or taking time to reflect, Thanksgiving is a moment to appreciate what truly matters—togetherness, love, and a sense of community.
