When Is Thanksgiving? Dates, History & Traditions

Thanksgiving is a cherished holiday in the United States, marked by feasts, family gatherings, and expressions of gratitude. If you're wondering, "When is Thanksgiving?" you're not alone. It's a question many ask each year as they plan their celebrations. This article provides a comprehensive guide to Thanksgiving, covering its date, history, traditions, and more.

The Date of Thanksgiving: Always the Fourth Thursday in November

Thanksgiving is celebrated annually on the fourth Thursday of November. This date was officially set by President Franklin D. Roosevelt in 1939 and later confirmed by Congress in 1941. Understanding why Thanksgiving falls on this particular day requires a bit of historical context.

Historical Background: Why the Fourth Thursday?

• Abraham Lincoln's Proclamation: In 1863, President Abraham Lincoln declared a national day of Thanksgiving to be celebrated on the last Thursday of November. This was during the Civil War, and Lincoln sought to unite the nation through a day of gratitude and reflection.
• Franklin D. Roosevelt's Decision: In 1939, President Franklin D. Roosevelt moved the date to the second to last Thursday of November to extend the Christmas shopping season. Retailers hoped that an extra week would boost the economy during the Great Depression. However, this change was met with considerable controversy, and in 1941, Congress passed a law officially establishing the fourth Thursday of November as Thanksgiving Day.

Upcoming Thanksgiving Dates:

• 2024: November 28
• 2025: November 27
• 2026: November 26

The History of Thanksgiving: More Than Just a Feast

Thanksgiving's roots are often traced back to the Plymouth Pilgrims' 1621 harvest celebration, but the full story is more complex. While the 1621 event is significant, it wasn't quite the Thanksgiving we know today. — Indiana Pacers: Reliving The 1993-1994 Season

The 1621 Harvest Celebration:

In the autumn of 1621, the Plymouth Pilgrims, along with members of the Wampanoag tribe, celebrated a successful harvest. This event, often considered the "first Thanksgiving," was a three-day feast. Accounts from the time indicate that the Pilgrims and Wampanoag shared food, games, and mutual respect.

• Primary Sources: Edward Winslow's letter provides one of the most detailed accounts of the 1621 celebration. (Source: Mourt’s Relation: A Journal of the Pilgrims at Plymouth)
• Wampanoag Perspective: It's important to acknowledge the Wampanoag's role in this event. They provided crucial assistance to the Pilgrims, helping them adapt to the new land.

Thanksgiving as a National Holiday:

While regional Thanksgiving celebrations occurred sporadically throughout American history, it wasn't until 1863 that President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed a national Thanksgiving Day. This proclamation was heavily influenced by Sarah Josepha Hale, who campaigned for decades to establish a national day of Thanksgiving. (Source: Smithsonian Magazine)

Evolving Traditions:

Over time, Thanksgiving evolved to include elements from various cultural traditions. The holiday became less about specific historical events and more about universal themes of gratitude, family, and community.

Traditional Thanksgiving Celebrations: Food, Family, and Football

Today, Thanksgiving is celebrated with a range of traditions that bring families and communities together. Here are some of the most common:

The Thanksgiving Feast:

The centerpiece of Thanksgiving is the feast, which typically includes:

• Turkey: Roasted turkey is the star of the meal. Many families have their own special recipes and techniques for preparing the perfect bird.
• Stuffing/Dressing: This savory dish is typically made with bread, herbs, and vegetables. It's cooked either inside the turkey or in a separate dish.
• Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes are a staple, often served with gravy.
• Cranberry Sauce: This tart sauce provides a contrast to the richer dishes.
• Pumpkin Pie: No Thanksgiving feast is complete without pumpkin pie. This dessert is often served with whipped cream or ice cream.

Family Gatherings:

Thanksgiving is a time for families to come together, often traveling long distances to be with loved ones. These gatherings provide an opportunity to reconnect, share stories, and create lasting memories.

Thanksgiving Day Parades:

The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City is a beloved tradition, featuring giant balloons, elaborate floats, and marching bands. The parade is broadcast nationally and watched by millions of people.

Thanksgiving Day Football:

Watching football is another popular Thanksgiving tradition. The Detroit Lions and Dallas Cowboys typically host games on Thanksgiving Day, providing entertainment for families across the country.

Expressions of Gratitude:

A central theme of Thanksgiving is gratitude. Many families take time during the meal to express what they are thankful for.

Thanksgiving Around the World: Different Cultures, Similar Themes

While Thanksgiving is primarily a U.S. holiday, similar harvest festivals and expressions of gratitude are celebrated in other parts of the world.

Canada:

Canadian Thanksgiving is celebrated on the second Monday in October. It shares many of the same themes as the U.S. holiday, including harvest celebrations and expressions of gratitude.

Other Harvest Festivals:

Many cultures around the world have their own versions of harvest festivals, such as:

• Chuseok (Korea): A major harvest festival celebrated in the fall.
• Mid-Autumn Festival (China): A harvest festival celebrated with mooncakes and family gatherings.
• Sukkot (Jewish): A week-long harvest festival celebrated in the fall.

Thanksgiving Controversies and Criticisms

Despite its widespread popularity, Thanksgiving is not without its controversies and criticisms.

Native American Perspectives:

For many Native Americans, Thanksgiving is a reminder of the colonization and displacement of indigenous peoples. Some Native Americans view Thanksgiving as a day of mourning rather than celebration.

Ethical Concerns:

Concerns about the treatment of turkeys and other animals raised for Thanksgiving feasts have also been raised. Ethical eating and sustainable food practices are increasingly important considerations for many people. — Where To Watch Ravens Games: Live Streams & TV Channels

FAQ: Common Questions About Thanksgiving

1. Why is Thanksgiving on a Thursday?

Thanksgiving was originally proclaimed by Abraham Lincoln to be on the last Thursday of November. Franklin D. Roosevelt later changed it to the second to last Thursday to boost the economy, but Congress officially set it as the fourth Thursday in 1941.

2. What was the first Thanksgiving meal?

The first Thanksgiving meal in 1621 likely included deer, wild fowl, corn, and other local produce. It was a shared feast between the Plymouth Pilgrims and the Wampanoag tribe.

3. How did Thanksgiving become a national holiday?

Sarah Josepha Hale campaigned for decades to establish a national day of Thanksgiving. Her efforts, combined with Abraham Lincoln's proclamation in 1863, led to Thanksgiving becoming a national holiday. — Dodgers Game Today: Time, Tickets, And How To Watch

4. What are some alternative Thanksgiving celebrations?

Alternative Thanksgiving celebrations can include vegetarian or vegan feasts, community service activities, or educational events focused on Native American history and culture.

5. How can I make my Thanksgiving more sustainable?

You can make your Thanksgiving more sustainable by buying local and organic food, reducing food waste, and choosing ethically raised turkeys.

6. What is the significance of the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade?

The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is a beloved tradition that marks the start of the holiday season. It features giant balloons, elaborate floats, and marching bands, and is watched by millions of people.

Conclusion: Celebrating Gratitude and Reflection

Thanksgiving is more than just a date on the calendar; it's a time for gratitude, reflection, and coming together with loved ones. Whether you're planning a traditional feast or seeking alternative ways to celebrate, remember to embrace the spirit of thankfulness and appreciate the blessings in your life. As you gather with family and friends this Thanksgiving, take a moment to reflect on the history, traditions, and significance of this cherished holiday. And, of course, don't forget to enjoy the delicious food and the company of those you hold dear. Happy Thanksgiving!