Thanksgiving is an essential holiday in the United States, and not just for its famous turkey. Behind this emblematic meal there are also other sometimes little-known traditions. Here are some facts you may not know about this day so dear to Americans.
In November, an event brings together most Americans every year: Thanksgiving. A strong symbol of American culture, this holiday is often seen as the most important meal of the year, even surpassing Christmas. Families come together for a day punctuated by various activities and the preparation of a big feast, in which the turkey is the star. But what makes this celebration so special to Americans?
When is Thanksgiving in 2025?
This year, Thanksgiving will take place on Thursday, November 27, 2025. Usually she stands on last Thursday of November in the United States. A date set by President Abraham Lincoln in 1863. This day has also been a public holiday in the United States since 1941. And the next day another completely commercial high mass takes place this time: Black Friday.
What is the story behind Thanksgiving?
The history of Thanksgiving dates back to 1620when the Pilgrim Fathers, after crossing the Atlantic aboard the Mayflower, docked in Plymouth, in what is now Massachusetts. When they arrived, weakened by scurvy and other diseases, they were able to count on the support of certain Amerindians, who passed on to them knowledge of hunting, agriculture and fishing. They even gave them wild turkeys. Notably, one of the natives spoke English after being captured and taken to England as a slave before escaping back home. In gratitude for the good harvests and the help of the Native Americans, William Bradford, then governor of the first settlers, organized a feast to thank God for their harvests, but also the Native Americans for their valuable help. This is the origin of Thanksgiving.
What do we celebrate on Thanksgiving?
Thanksgiving is a day dedicated to giving thanks. Literally, its name means “thanks for the donations“. The key principle of this holiday is to come together as a family to celebrate and appreciate all that the year has brought. The spirit of this day is based on recognition and gratitude towards the events experienced.
What are the traditions of the Thanksgiving holiday?
Thanksgiving is an intense day for many Americans. In the morning, many start by watching television the famous Macy’s parade which crosses New York, followed by the traditional presidential pardon of the turkey. Then, some embark on the final purchases necessary for the big evening meal. THE American football matches are also part of the rituals of the day, until the time of turkey preparation and of dinner. This day is not limited to a simple celebration, it is a true tradition anchored in the hearts of Americans.
The turkey, which had such an impact on sailors in the 17th century, is the star food of Thanksgiving. She is stuffed and roasted in the oven and traditionally accompanied by mashed potatoes or sweet potatoesand cranberry sauce. This is the main dish. For dessert, pumpkin pie often ends the meal. A turkey is also traditionally always pardoned on Thanksgiving by the President of the United States.
Do we celebrate Thanksgiving in France and other countries?
In France, it is not customary to celebrate Thanksgivingbut nothing stops families from taking advantage of this festive day to share a good meal. In any case, Americans are not the only ones to celebrate Thanksgiving. THE Canadians also celebrate this holiday most often on the third Monday of the month of October. The inhabitants of some Caribbean Islands and Liberia also celebrate Thanksgiving.
