Thanksgiving 2024: Date, History, Significance, Celebrations, and Everything You Need to Know

Be it you are a student or a working professional, holidays are everyone's favourite days of the year. Although most holidays bring joy and a feeling of togetherness, one that sits on the top of the throne for many is none other than Thanksgiving.

Thanksgiving: A Day of Gratitude

If we talk about the day explicitly, it is one of the most cherished holidays in the United States. In fact, at its core, Thanksgiving is a celebration of gratitude. Falling on the fourth Thursday of November every year, the day reflects on the blessings in our lives, big and small. However, beyond gratitude, the day is also a celebration of togetherness. It's a time to reconnect with loved ones, share stories, and create lasting memories.

Though Thanksgiving has initially been popular in America, over the years the day has gained prominence across the globe, with many countries, including India, celebrating the special occasion. So, without further ado, let’s get into it directly!

History And Significance

If we talk about the history and how the day came into existence, we have to go back to 1621. It was the time when the Pilgrims, early European settlers of Plymouth Colony, held a harvest feast to celebrate their first successful crop. This joyous occasion was also shared with the Wampanoag Native American tribe, who had helped the Pilgrims adapt to their new environment. The spirit of friendship and mutual appreciation that defined this inaugural feast has continued to inspire generations of Americans.

The traditional Thanksgiving meal, featuring a roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie, is a symbol of abundance and nourishment. It's a feast that brings people together, fostering a sense of community and belonging.

In recent years, Thanksgiving has also become an opportunity to give back to the community. Many people volunteer their time at local food banks, shelters, and other charitable organizations. This spirit of giving reflects the true meaning of Thanksgiving, which is not just about receiving blessings but also about sharing them with others.

Thanksgiving Facts and Fiction

The reason we have so many myths associated with Thanksgiving is because it is an invented tradition. So, let's delve into some facts to get a clear picture:

First Feast: The first Thanksgiving celebration in 1621 was a three-day event shared by the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag Native American tribe. They feasted on a variety of foods, including venison, duck, goose, fish, and cranberries.

A National Holiday: Thanksgiving Day became a national holiday in the United States in 1863, thanks to President Abraham Lincoln. In truth, the day is celebrated annually on the fourth Thursday of November, not the last.

A Day of Family and Football: Modern Thanksgiving is synonymous with family gatherings, football games, and a traditional feast. It's a time for people to come together, express gratitude, and enjoy each other's company.

As we gather around the table this Thanksgiving, let us remember the value of appreciation and community. Let's be grateful for the benefits in our lives and cherish the relationships we have with our loved ones. By manifesting the spirit of Thanksgiving, we can certainly create a more positive and meaningful environment for ourselves and others.