Why Do We Celebrate Thanksgiving Day? Meaning Behind the Holiday!

Thanksgiving Day is one of the most cherished holidays in the United States, filled with family gatherings, delicious feasts, and a spirit of gratitude. But why do we celebrate Thanksgiving Day? The answer lies in its historical origins, cultural significance, and evolving traditions. Let’s explore the reasons behind this beloved holiday.

Thanksgiving Day 2024

Thanksgiving Day in the United States is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November each year. This date can vary, but it always falls between November 23 and November 29.

For example:

• In 2024, Thanksgiving Day will be on Thursday, November 28.
• In 2025, it will be celebrated on Thursday, November 27.

This tradition of observing Thanksgiving on the fourth Thursday of November was established in 1941 when the U.S. Congress passed a law setting this date as the official day of celebration.

In Canada, however, Thanksgiving is celebrated earlier, on the second Monday of October, because the harvest season in Canada comes earlier due to its northern climate.

1. The History of Thanksgiving Day

Thanksgiving Day has its roots in the early 17th century. The holiday is commonly linked to a feast held in 1621 between the Pilgrims, early European settlers, and the Wampanoag Native Americans. This event is often seen as a celebration of a successful harvest and the cooperation between the two groups. The Pilgrims, who had struggled through a harsh winter and food shortages, were able to reap a good harvest in the following year, thanks in part to the help of the Native Americans who taught them vital agricultural practices.

The First Thanksgiving Day Feast

The first Thanksgiving Day feast in 1621 lasted for three days and included a variety of foods, although it was quite different from the Thanksgiving meals we enjoy today. Instead of turkey, it likely featured wildfowl, venison, seafood, and corn-based dishes. This gathering was a way for the Pilgrims to give thanks for their newfound alliance with the Wampanoag tribe and the bountiful harvest they had managed to gather.

2. The Establishment of Thanksgiving Day as a National Holiday

For many years, various states and regions in the U.S. celebrated Thanksgiving on different dates. It wasn’t until 1863 that Thanksgiving was declared a national holiday by President Abraham Lincoln. In the midst of the Civil War, Lincoln issued a proclamation establishing the last Thursday in November as a day of “thanksgiving and praise.” He hoped that this holiday would help bring unity to a divided nation.

Why Did Lincoln Choose Thanksgiving?

Lincoln’s decision to make Thanksgiving a national holiday was influenced by the persistent efforts of Sarah Josepha Hale, an American writer and editor. Hale had campaigned for nearly 20 years, writing letters to presidents advocating for a unified national day of thanks. Her vision was to create a holiday that would bring Americans together in a time of division and struggle.

3. The Spirit of Gratitude and Reflection

At its core, Thanksgiving is a day dedicated to expressing gratitude for the good things in our lives. It’s a time to pause and reflect on the blessings we have, whether it’s good health, family, friends, or even the small joys of everyday life. This emphasis on gratitude makes Thanksgiving unique among holidays, focusing on thankfulness rather than commercial aspects like gifts or decorations.

Modern-Day Traditions of Gratitude

Today, families often take turns sharing what they are thankful for before digging into the Thanksgiving meal. This tradition helps reinforce the holiday’s original purpose: to give thanks for the harvest and the blessings of the past year. It’s a reminder to appreciate what we have, even amidst challenges.

4. A Celebration of Harvest and Food

Thanksgiving is synonymous with food. The holiday feast is a central part of the celebration, bringing people together to enjoy traditional dishes like turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie. The abundance of food on the table is symbolic of the successful harvests celebrated by early settlers.

Why Turkey?

The tradition of eating turkey on Thanksgiving is believed to have started in the 19th century. While the Pilgrims likely had wildfowl and venison at their feast, turkey became the preferred choice because it was widely available, large enough to feed a family, and considered a special meal. Today, over 46 million turkeys are consumed each Thanksgiving in the United States!

5. A Time for Family and Togetherness

For many, Thanksgiving is one of the few times in the year when extended families come together. It’s a chance to reconnect, share stories, and create new memories. The holiday is less about giving gifts and more about sharing time and enjoying a meal together, making it a special time for family bonding.

Traveling for Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is one of the busiest travel times of the year in the United States. People often go to great lengths to be with their loved ones, whether it means driving across the state or flying across the country. The effort to gather together underscores the importance of family and connection during this holiday.

6. The Evolution of Thanksgiving Day Traditions

While the core elements of Thanksgiving have remained the same, new traditions have evolved over the years. Some of the most popular include:

• The Thanksgiving Day Parade: The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, held in New York City, has been a tradition since 1924. It features giant balloons, floats, and performances, marking the start of the holiday season.
• Watching Football: Football has become a staple of Thanksgiving Day, with NFL games being broadcast throughout the day. Families often gather around the TV to watch the games, making it part of their holiday tradition.
• Volunteering and Charity: Many people take the spirit of gratitude a step further by giving back to their communities. Volunteering at soup kitchens or donating food to those in need has become a meaningful way to celebrate the holiday.

7. Thanksgiving as a Symbol of Unity and Gratitude

Thanksgiving has come to symbolize unity and the importance of gratitude. While its origins lie in a historical feast, the modern celebration is a time for everyone, regardless of background or beliefs, to come together and give thanks. It serves as a reminder of the values of gratitude, family, and community.

Conclusion

Thanksgiving Day is much more than just a holiday with a big meal. It’s a time to reflect on our blessings, reconnect with loved ones, and appreciate the good in our lives. From its historical roots as a harvest celebration to its role as a day of gratitude and unity, Thanksgiving continues to hold a special place in the hearts of many Americans. It’s a holiday that brings people together, reminding us all to be thankful for what we have.

FAQs

What are some traditional Thanksgiving Day foods?
Traditional dishes include turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie.

When did Thanksgiving Day become a national holiday?
Thanksgiving was declared a national holiday in 1863 by President Abraham Lincoln.

Why do we eat turkey on Thanksgiving Day?
Turkey became the popular choice because it was widely available, large enough to feed families, and considered a special meal.

What is the significance of Thanksgiving Day?
Thanksgiving is a day to give thanks for the harvest, blessings of the past year, and to spend time with loved ones.

How do people celebrate Thanksgiving Day today?
Common traditions include a large meal with turkey, family gatherings, watching football, and attending Thanksgiving parades.

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