Thanksgiving Day: History, Facts, Celebrations, Quotes, & Deals
A world where the air is filled with the tantalizing aromas of roasted turkey, cinnamon-spiced pumpkin pie, and the laughter of loved ones gathered around a table adorned with gratitude. Thanksgiving Day, a symphony of flavors and warmth, invites us to pause, reflect, and embrace the simple joys that enrich our lives.
It is a time when hearts are filled with appreciation when traditions weave their magic, and when the bonds of family and friends are celebrated with open arms. So, let’s make ourselves known about Thanksgiving, where we’ll savor the essence of gratitude and discover the timeless tales that make this holiday a cherished moment in our hearts.
What is Thanksgiving?
Thanksgiving is a celebrated holiday in the United States that holds deep cultural and historical significance. It is a time when people come together to give thanks for the blessings in their lives and to appreciate the abundance of the harvest season.
At its core, Thanksgiving is a celebration of gratitude. It is an opportunity to reflect on the many things we have to be thankful for, whether it be good health, loving relationships, personal achievements, or simply the small joys that brighten our everyday lives. It encourages us to pause, take stock, and express our appreciation for the blessings we often take for granted.
The History of Thanksgiving Day
The history of Thanksgiving Day in the United States can be traced back to the early colonial period. The Pilgrims, who were English Separatists seeking religious freedom, arrived on the shores of Plymouth, Massachusetts, in 1620. They faced a harsh and challenging first winter, but with the help and guidance of Native Americans, particularly the Wampanoag tribe, they learned to cultivate the land and secure a successful harvest in the following year.
In 1621, to celebrate their bountiful harvest, the Pilgrims organized a three-day feast, known as the First Thanksgiving. It was a time of thanksgiving and gratitude, where the Pilgrims and Native Americans came together to share food, express appreciation, and foster friendship. While the specific details of the feast are not well-documented, historical accounts suggest that it featured a variety of wild games, fish, fruits, and vegetables.
Thanksgiving did not become an annual holiday immediately after the first feast. It wasn’t until the 19th century that efforts were made to establish a national day of Thanksgiving. In 1863, during the midst of the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed Thanksgiving as a national holiday, to be observed on the final Thursday in November. This was largely influenced by the advocacy of Sarah Josepha Hale, a writer, and editor who campaigned for a national Thanksgiving holiday as a way to promote unity and healing during a time of division.
Over the years, Thanksgiving has evolved into a holiday that transcends its historical roots. It has become a time for families and friends to gather, share a festive meal, and express gratitude for the blessings in their lives. The traditional Thanksgiving meal often includes a roasted turkey as the centerpiece, along with side dishes such as stuffing, cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, and various vegetables. Pumpkin pie is a popular dessert choice to end the meal.
Thanksgiving has also been associated with parades, particularly the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade held in New York City since 1924. It has become a time for charitable acts, with many individuals and communities engaging in volunteer work and contributing to those in need.
While the historical origins of Thanksgiving lie in the early colonial period, the holiday has come to symbolize gratitude, togetherness, and the celebration of abundance. It serves as a reminder to appreciate the blessings in our lives and to foster a spirit of unity and generosity.
When is Thanksgiving Day Celebrated?
Thanksgiving Day is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November each year in the United States. This date was officially designated by a proclamation from President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1941, setting it as a national holiday. The specific day can vary from year to year, but it typically falls between November 22nd and November 28th. It marks the beginning of the holiday season and is followed by the “Black Friday” shopping day, which has become a significant retail event in the country.
How To Celebrate Thanksgiving Day?
Celebrating Thanksgiving Day is a wonderful opportunity to express gratitude, spend time with loved ones, and create lasting memories. While traditions can vary among families and regions, here are some common ways to celebrate Thanksgiving:
- Feast: The centerpiece of Thanksgiving is the festive meal. Many families gather around a table laden with traditional dishes such as roasted turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie. Sharing a delicious meal with loved ones is a cherished tradition that brings people together.
- Gratitude Circle: Before or during the meal, it is common to take a moment to express gratitude. Each person can share what they are thankful for, whether it’s personal achievements, family, friends, good health, or other blessings. This practice fosters a sense of appreciation and reflection.
- Parade Viewing: Watching Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is a popular tradition for many families. This grand spectacle in New York City showcases enormous floats, giant balloons, marching bands, and performances. It is broadcasted live on television and entertains all ages.
- Football: Football has become synonymous with Thanksgiving for many Americans. Watching football games, either on television or participating in a friendly backyard match, has become a beloved tradition. It brings together sports enthusiasts and adds excitement to the day.
- Giving Back: Thanksgiving is a time to remember those in need. Many families engage in acts of kindness and community service, such as volunteering at shelters, donating food to food banks, or organizing fundraisers to support charitable causes. This tradition of giving back reflects the spirit of Thanksgiving.
- Family Activities: Families often engage in various activities to bond and have fun together. This may include taking a leisurely walk or hike, playing board games, watching movies, or engaging in crafts and activities centered around the holiday theme.
- Harvest Decorations: Decorating the home with autumn-themed elements and harvest-inspired decorations adds to the festive ambiance. Pumpkins, cornucopias, fall foliage, and candles create a warm and inviting atmosphere for Thanksgiving celebrations.
- Friendsgiving: In addition to celebrating with family, many people also host “Friendsgiving” gatherings. Friends come together to share a meal and celebrate friendship. This tradition allows individuals who may not have family nearby to enjoy the holiday spirit with their chosen family and friends.
Remember, while these are common traditions, the beauty of Thanksgiving lies in the personal touches and unique customs that each family or individual brings to the celebration. It is a time to create meaningful traditions and cultivate a spirit of gratitude and togetherness.
Fun Thanksgiving Day Facts
Origin of the Presidential Turkey Pardon: The tradition of the President pardoning a live turkey and sparing it from being eaten started with President George H.W. Bush in 1989. The pardoned turkeys often go on to live out their days on a farm or at a historic site.
- Turkey Trot Races: Many cities and towns organize “Turkey Trot” races on Thanksgiving morning. These are fun runs or walks that encourage people to get active before indulging in their festive meal.
- National Football League (NFL) Tradition: The NFL has a long-standing tradition of hosting football games on Thanksgiving Day. The Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys are particularly known for playing on Thanksgiving, with games dating back to the 1930s.
- Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Balloons: The first Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade took place in 1924 and featured live animals from the Central Park Zoo. In 1927, the parade introduced its first giant character balloon, which was Felix the Cat.
- Cranberry Sauce: Cranberries are a staple of Thanksgiving meals, and it’s interesting to note that they are one of three fruits native to North America (along with blueberries and Concord grapes).
- Turkey Consumption: It is estimated that approximately 46 million turkeys are consumed on Thanksgiving Day in the United States.
- Wishbone Tradition: A common tradition involves two people pulling on the turkey’s wishbone, also known as the furcula. The person who ends up with the larger piece is said to have their wish granted.
- Pumpkin Pie: Pumpkin pie is a classic Thanksgiving dessert. The world’s largest pumpkin pie was baked in 2020 and weighed over 3,699 pounds (1,678 kilograms)!
These fun facts add a touch of trivia and history to the Thanksgiving holiday, making it even more enjoyable to share with family and friends.
Wonderful Places To Spend Thanksgiving
This Thanksgiving can be more special if you celebrate your special occasions with serene beauty and thrilling hikes and adventures. Below are some of the places you just visit to make Thanksgiving more auspicious:
- Lake Placid, New York
Lake Placid, New York is a wonderful place to spend Thanksgiving. Not only is the town home to Olympic Stadium (the Winter Olympics were held in 1932, and 1980 here) and many historic attractions, but it's also nestled among the beautiful Adirondack Mountains. One can fish, bike, camp, or even hike in the area.
- Santa Barbara, California
Santa Barbara is a wonderful place to spend Thanksgiving. This city has been called the American Riviera and it's easy to see why. From its beautiful beaches and stunning vineyards to its rich history and world-class restaurants, there is plenty for visitors to enjoy during their stay in Santa Barbara.
- Honolulu, Hawaii
This place is known for its warm weather and beautiful scenery perfect conditions for enjoying Thanksgiving Day! The island also offers plenty of activities such as golfing or whale watching during your stay. If you are willing to fly to this beautiful island, then you should know all the offers that are in store for you, especially the best time to book flights for affordable options.
- Boston, Massachusetts
If you're looking for an international atmosphere with all the classic American traditions, Boston should be on your list. This historic city has some fantastic dining options, including lots of restaurants specializing in Thanksgiving fare (or any other type of cuisine). And don't forget about Fenway Park, one of the popular tourist attractions.
- Killington, Vermont
Killington is a beautiful place to spend Thanksgiving in America. The town is known for its picturesque snow-capped peaks and lovely glens. It's also home to the Killington ski resort, which offers plenty of activities for those who are looking to enjoy some family fun on this special day. Several restaurants offer delicious traditional Thanksgiving dishes, as well as unique options that you won't find anywhere else. This place is known best known for having the boldest shades of yellows, reds, and oranges.
- Long Beach, California
Long Beach has a long history as a holiday destination, and thanks to its warm weather and diverse cultural attractions, it's sure to be a memorable experience for everyone who attends. There are loads of spots to eat inside or outside, including some delicious Thanksgiving options that will have your stomachs thanking you later on. And if you're looking for something fun to do while you're in town, check out famous shopping spots like Shoreline Village or Bixby Knolls where you can find all sorts of festive goodies.
- Grapevine, Texas
This city has a long history of hosting the nation's largest holiday celebration and it doesn't seem to be losing steam anytime soon. Also known as the "Christmas Capital of Texas, Grapevine boasts an impressive array of attractions that are perfect for tourists and locals alike, including the Grapevine Vintage Railroad, LEGOLAND, Texas Motor Speedway, and many more.
- Kauai, Hawaii
For anyone wishing to enjoy Thanksgiving, Kauai is a wonderland. Views of the sunrise and hiking routes through rainforest valleys are just a couple of the island's many attractions and activities that will make your vacation special. Moreover, a lot of eateries serve creative dishes honoring American tradition. Consider booking a stay in one of Kauai's lovely homes or cottages if you're searching for something more intimate. These accommodations are ideal for gathering with loved ones and exploring everything that this breathtaking place has to offer.
- Aspen, Colorado
Aspen is a beautiful town located in the Rocky Mountains, and it is perfect for spending Thanksgiving. The location provides stunning views of the surrounding peaks while living in an upscale environment. Many restaurants and venues will accommodate your needs during this special holiday, and you can even take advantage of special deals that typically go up during this time. In addition, Aspen offers plenty to do whether it's skiing or hiking. When all was said and done, Aspen should be on your list of places to spend Thanksgiving!
- Jackson Hole, Wyoming
This stunning valley is home to some of the most beautiful landscapes in America and features plenty of activities such as hiking, horseback riding, skiing, fishing, cycling (including rentals), kayaking/canoeing/sailing...the list goes on! And if that's not enough, downtown Jackson provides an array of restaurants and shops perfect for celebrating this special holiday.
Thanksgiving Day Inspirational Quotes
"Gratitude is when memory is stored in the heart and not in the mind.
- Lionel Hampton
"The turkey. The sweet potatoes. The stuffing. The pumpkin pie. Is there anything else we all can agree so vehemently about? I don't think so.
- Nora Ephron
"Let gratitude be the pillow upon which you kneel to say your nightly prayer.
- Maya Angelou
"True forgiveness is when you can say, 'Thank you for that experience.’
- Oprah Winfrey
"I am happy because I'm grateful. I choose to be grateful. That gratitude allows me to be happy.
- Will Arnett
"Good mashed potato is one of the great luxuries of life.
- Lindsey Bareham
"Thanksgiving is the meal we aspire for other meals to resemble.
- Jonathan Safran Foer
"What I love about Thanksgiving is that it's purely about getting together with friends or family and enjoying food. It's really for everybody, and it doesn't matter where you're from.
- Daniel Humm
"Thanksgiving is one of my favorite days of the year because it reminds us to give thanks and to count our blessings. Suddenly, so many things become so little when we realize how blessed and lucky we are.
- Joyce Giraud
"As we express our gratitude, we must never forget that the highest appreciation is not to utter words, but to live by them.
- John F. Kennedy
Thanksgiving Day Deals 2024
Thanksgiving sales have become an integral part of the holiday season, with American consumers eagerly seeking out deals and discounts. In recent years, there has been a significant shift towards online shopping on Thanksgiving Day. According to Adobe Analytics, American consumers shattered records by spending a staggering $5.3 billion online on Thanksgiving Day alone. This figure represents a notable 3% increase compared to the previous year.
The rise in online sales can be attributed, in part, to the growing trend of physical stores remaining closed on Thanksgiving Day. This shift has fueled the convenience and accessibility of online shopping, allowing consumers to shop from the comfort of their homes while still enjoying the excitement and savings associated with this shopping extravaganza.
And to make things easier for you, we have curated a list of Thanksgiving deals that will surely make you bag'em all!
1. Thanksgiving Electronics Offers
Score incredible savings on the latest gadgets and electronics as retailers offer exclusive discounts and promotions during the Thanksgiving season. From discounted TVs to discounted laptops, seize the opportunity to upgrade your tech arsenal while enjoying the holiday festivities. Here are some of the best electronics deals up for grabs on Thanksgiving:
- Amazon – iRobot Roomba for just $180 instead of $280
- Best Buy – $150 off on Lenovo IdeaPad
- Samsung – Price cuts up to $450 on Samsung Galaxy Z Fold
- Apple – Pay $200 less for an Apple MacBook Air
- Walmart – Acer Chromebook for just $149
2. Thanksgiving Turkey and Grocery Offers
Make your Thanksgiving feast even more delightful with jaw-dropping deals on turkeys and grocery essentials. Avail of special discounts and promotions on everything from fresh produce to pantry staples, ensuring you can create a delicious and budget-friendly holiday spread. Take advantage of these offers to stock up on all your Thanksgiving essentials and enjoy a bountiful celebration without breaking the bank:
- Aldi – Save up to 30% on desserts, drinks, and more
- Walmart – Get your turkey for $1 or less per pound
- Lidl – Thanksgiving staple for just $30 or less
- Ibotta – Complete the bonuses to get a free turkey
- Carrs Safeway – A turkey for $150 grocery purchase
3. Thanksgiving Fashion Sales
Elevate your holiday style with incredible deals on fashion and accessories during Thanksgiving. From trendy clothing to stylish footwear, retailers offer enticing discounts and promotions, allowing you to enhance your wardrobe for the festive season. Take advantage of these fashion sales to find the perfect attire and make a statement during Thanksgiving gatherings and celebrations:
- J.Crew – Concessions up to 40% on sweaters
- Saks – 60% discount on Cinq a Sept Opalina Midi
- Banana Republic – Pay $84 for a Portfolio Leather Tote
- Loft – Save up to 50% on Textured Moto coat
- Nike – Extra savings of 25% on Nike Air Huarache Ultra
Best Thanksgiving Gifts to Give Your Hosts
There are many different types of gifts that could be a perfect fit for someone who is preparing to host Thanksgiving. Here are the top gift ideas:
- A cookbook or guide to classic Thanksgiving recipes This can help the host in preparation and ensure that the meal is delicious and memorable.
- Home cooking tools This can include utensils, gadgets, oven mitts, etc., which will make preparation much easier and less time-consuming.
- Wine collection If wine is not your personal drink of choice, this gift may still be appreciated as it provides another beverage option for guests during the holiday season.
- Chocolatiers Signature Collection Box It is a great gift for someone who loves chocolate. This special box contains delicious chocolates that are made with unique and intricate flavors, perfect for Thanksgiving.
- Round Glass Storage Set It is perfect for the host who has a lot of cookware on hand or anyone who likes to decorate their kitchen in style. This set comes with four beautiful glass storage jars that can be used to store all sorts of things, from herbs and spices to nuts and seeds.
- Blender This small kitchen item is an essential kitchen gadget, and is an excellent gift for health-conscious Thanksgiving host. It makes quick work of smoothies, cocktails, or other drinks.
- A crockpot This is a great gift if your friend is already on board with healthy eating habits, or if they're just looking for an easy way to prepare meals. It makes preparing meals a breeze!
- An electric turkey cooker/fryer If you're looking to up the ante a bit and have everyone excited for Thanksgiving, then get them an electric turkey cooker. They will love being able to cook their bird themselves without all the fuss!
- A mug with a personalized message This unique gift can show how much you care about your host, and it can be personalized using any text or photo.
- A spoon set This is a great gift for someone who loves to cook and needs spoons for different cooking tasks
- A spice set Can be ideal if the person you're buying it for likes to cook a wide range of cuisines.
- Oven mitts This is another great gift idea because they come in handy no matter what type of cooking the recipient does! A regular oven glove doesn't do much protection against burns and other injuries, so this is a valuable addition to their kitchen arsenal.
- Home baking supplies Cookies, cake mixes, bagels... You name it! Hosts love getting homemade goodies on occasion (or every day!), so why not pack some simple ingredients along with relevant recipe instructions for easy home-baking goodness?
- Cheese knife set This happens to be a great gift for anyone who loves to eat cheese. Even if they don't cook, this set will come in handy when it comes time to slice and dice those delicious bits of cheese.
- Temperature Control Smart Mug An amazing mug that controls your drink temperature is perfect for sipping on your favorite hot beverage while keeping your hands warm and cozy!
- Gratitude tree This heartfelt gift can be placed anywhere within the home as a reminder of why we're thankful. It's also a fun way to get everyone involved!
- Gratitude journal Whether you give one as a present or have guests write down their thoughts on paper, this thoughtful gesture will help them reflect on their happy moments throughout the year. Thankfulness may just become contagious!
- A linen candle These soft-burning candles remind us of all the good things in life and make any space feel cozy and welcoming (especially during those long family gatherings).
- Glass cocktail shaker This is a beautiful addition that can be used in many different ways from making delicious cocktails on Thanksgiving night to entertaining guests after dinner.
- Photo gallery collage puzzle Create an amazing photo collage as your host's personal tribute to all of the wonderful memories shared on this special occasion. With rich colors and plenty of photos from past Thanksgiving combined with lovely new shots commemorating this year's festivities, this masterpiece will be cherished forever!
What is the best time to shop for Thanksgiving?
Although your location and personal preferences may influence the optimum time to shop for Thanksgiving, there are some broad guidelines that can guide your choices. First of all, try to shop early in the day before sales end, and be careful to compare stores online as many merchants offer fantastic discounts through their websites.
The ideal day to shop if you need to buy food or groceries is a Monday. This may seem too far, but according to data from Google Maps, Saturdays are the busiest days to visit a grocery shop during this season. Therefore, Monday, preferably at 8 am, is the least busy day.
Why Is Black Friday Celebrated After Thanksgiving?
In the United States, Black Friday is a colloquial term for the Friday following Thanksgiving Day (celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November). This marks the start of the Christmas shopping season, with thousands of deals available to shoppers across the country.
In accounting, the term "Black refers to profitable businesses. During this season, retailers across the United States slash prices and offer unbelievable deals on popular items, which is why it’s called 'Black Friday.'
Happy Thanksgiving!
As we conclude our exploration of Thanksgiving Day, we are reminded of the timeless traditions, heartfelt gratitude, and cherished moments that make this holiday so special. From its humble origins to modern-day celebrations, Thanksgiving continues to bring people together, fostering a sense of appreciation and togetherness.
It is a day when we pause to reflect on our blessings, savor delicious feasts, and create lasting memories with loved ones. Whether through shared meals, acts of kindness, or expressions of gratitude, Thanksgiving invites us to embrace the beauty of gratitude and the power of connection. So, as we bid farewell to this blog, let us carry the spirit of Thanksgiving in our hearts every day, spreading kindness, thankfulness, and love to all those around us.
FAQs
1. Which president refused Thanksgiving as a holiday and why?
The third President of the United States Thomas Jefferson declined to issue a proclamation in 1801 and did not support the holiday of Thanksgiving. He believed that because Thanksgiving has Puritan religious roots, embracing the holiday amounted to support for state-sponsored religion.
2. What was eaten at the first Thanksgiving?
One of the first things that was eaten at the First Thanksgiving was fowl. Other seafood dishes included Eels, lobster, clams, bass, oysters, and mussels. Bread and corn were also popular items on the table.
3. What are the most popular foods to eat on Thanksgiving dinner?
The most popular foods to eat on Thanksgiving dinner are roast turkey, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, apple pie, gravy, green bean casserole, and pecan pie.
4. Which president declared National Thanksgiving Day?
Thanksgiving Day was first proclaimed as a national holiday by George Washington. He declared Thursday, November 26, 1789, to be the day to observe Thanksgiving in a proclamation. This day wasn't traditionally observed on the last Thursday of November each year until President Abraham Lincoln's proclamation in 1863.
5. What is a traditional Thanksgiving dinner?
A traditional Thanksgiving dinner typically consists of roasted turkey, cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes and gravy, green beans, pumpkin pie, or apple tart. It is also common to serve bread stuffing, sweet potatoes, garlic mashed parsnips, etc. Other optional dishes include candied yams and red gelatin eggs.
6. When do Thanksgiving offers typically start?
Thanksgiving sales often start a few days before Thanksgiving Day itself, with many retailers offering early-bird deals and promotions to attract shoppers.
7. Are online Thanksgiving sales as good as in-store?
Yes, online Thanksgiving deals can be just as good, if not better, than in-store sales. Many retailers offer exclusive online-only deals and discounts, making it a convenient and cost-effective way to shop.
8. Can I find deals on electronics during Thanksgiving?
Absolutely! Thanksgiving sales are known for offering enticing discounts on electronics. It’s a great time to score deals on items like TVs, laptops, smartphones, and other gadgets.
9. Are there any specific times during Thanksgiving Day when the best deals are available?
Yes, there are certain periods during Thanksgiving Day when retailers may offer special doorbuster deals or limited-time promotions. It’s advisable to keep an eye on early morning or evening hours for potentially significant discounts.
