Thanksgiving In The United States 2024

Thanksgiving in the USA is a lot like that episode of the TV show F.R.I.E.N.D.S., where the gang gathers around the table for a festive feast. You know, the one where Joey tries to save Ross's infamous "moist maker" sandwich. But in real life, Thanksgiving is not just about quirky mishaps and iconic catchphrases; it's a time when Americans come together to give thanks. So, grab a cup of coffee (just like the gang did at their favourite hangout spot) and let's dive into the heartwarming tradition of Thanksgiving!

What is Thanksgiving in the USA? 

Thanksgiving in the USA is a unique holiday where families and friends come together to express their gratitude for the good things in their lives. On this day, they share a big and delicious meal that usually includes roasted turkey, tasty stuffing, and pumpkin pie for dessert, or maybe recreating Rachel's English trifle (definitely not). 

Many people also enjoy watching colourful parades and exciting football games on television. Thanksgiving usually falls on the 4th Thursday of November every year. It is a time for people to get out of their routines, count on their blessings and show appreciation for the people and things that bring joy to their lives. A heartfelt prayer before the meal or a warm gathering with loved ones, Thanksgiving is all about coming together.

Why is Thanksgiving in the USA Celebrated?

Thanksgiving in the USA is celebrated to give thanks to God for a good harvest and blessings. It started with the Pilgrims, who were thankful for their new life. While it's religious in origin, today, people from different backgrounds celebrate it to give thanks for what they have and spend time with loved ones. The concept of Thanksgiving evolved and became a national holiday celebrated by people of various religious backgrounds. While the religious value stays for some, it has also become a more worldly holiday focused on family, gratitude, and togetherness. It's a time for people of all beliefs to come together and appreciate the blessings in their lives.

How is Thanksgiving in the USA Celebrated?

Thanksgiving in the USA is similar to a Friends TV show episode, where everyone gathers for a big meal. Like in many places worldwide, it's a time to be thankful and spend time together. Let's explore how Thanksgiving in the USA is celebrated. 

1. Thanksgiving Dinner

The centrepiece of Thanksgiving celebrations is a grand feast. Families and friends gather to share a meal that typically includes a roasted turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, cranberry sauce, and an array of side dishes like green beans, sweet potatoes, and rolls. Pumpkin pie is a favourite dessert usually served during Thanksgiving in the USA. 

2. Parades

Many cities in the USA host Thanksgiving Day parades. This is one of the fun things to do on Thanksgiving in the USA. The Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City is the most famous parade, and you should definitely add it to your itinerary if you are planning to visit the States. These parades usually have giant balloons, bands and floats, which is a beautiful experience for both live viewers and television viewers.

3. Football Games

Watching football games is a popular Thanksgiving tradition. Many families prefer staying at home with a bowl of popcorn and love watching the game with their loved ones; it's like an unsaid tradition across the country, just like in the TV show, ‘This is Us’ where the Pearsons come together and celebrate thanksgiving, and that becomes a core memory for them!  Professional football games are put out throughout the day, making it a perfect way to enjoy some sports with your family or friends.

4. Decorations

Thanksgiving decorations often include signs of the autumn season, such as colourful autumn leaves, pumpkins, and cornucopias. Many people decorate both the inside and outside of their homes to create a warm and attractive atmosphere. This also acts as a fun family activity, where the family comes together and brings in their bit of creativity to make it more merry! 

5. Family Time

Thanksgiving is a time for family gatherings. Children move out at the age of 18 usually, but Thanksgiving in the USA is the time when everyone in the family comes together and has a gala time. People often travel long distances to be with their loved ones, sharing stories, laughter, and quality time together.

6. Giving Thanks

Before the meal, it's a tradition for someone to say a prayer or some thankful words while holding hands. It's a moment to show gratitude for the food and for having family and friends around.

7. Volunteering

Some individuals and families choose to spend part of their Thanksgiving Day volunteering at local shelters and food banks, helping those in need as a way of giving back to the community.

8. Black Friday Shopping

The day after Thanksgiving, known as "Black Friday," marks the start of the holiday shopping season. Many stores offer special discounts, and some people begin their Christmas shopping on this day.

These traditions and rituals collectively make Thanksgiving a special time for Americans to come together, express gratitude, and create lasting memories with their loved ones

How to celebrate your first Thanksgiving in the USA

Celebrating your first Thanksgiving in the USA can be a wonderful experience. Here's how to do it:

1. Learn About Thanksgiving: Understand that Thanksgiving is a holiday to give thanks and spend time with loved ones. It's usually on the fourth Thursday in November.
2. Join a Gathering: Find friends or family to celebrate with. Many people open their homes to newcomers during Thanksgiving.
3. Traditional Meal: Share a traditional Thanksgiving meal, and dont miss out on the amazing turkey, stuffing, potatoes, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie.
4. Help or Bring a Dish: Offer to help with cooking or bring a dish. This is pretty much like a tradition, more like a potluck, so one person doesn’t have to bear all the workload. 
5. Enjoy Parades and Football: Watch Thanksgiving parades and football games on TV. It's a fun part of the day.
6. Share What You're Thankful For: During the meal, as a tradition, share what you're thankful for with others. It's a heartwarming tradition.
7. Black Friday Shopping: The day after Thanksgiving is known for shopping deals. You can also join in on the Black Friday shopping excitement if you like.
8. Learn Local Customs: Be open to learning about local customs and traditions. You would be very amazed at the customs and traditions. Moreover, it is fun to learn about different cultures. 
9. Give Back: Consider volunteering or donating to help those in need during this season. Many people choose to give back during Thanksgiving.
10. Enjoy and Relax: Finally, enjoy the day and relax with your new friends and the warm spirit of Thanksgiving. It's a time to be thankful and create lasting memories.

What happens after Thanksgiving in the USA?

Right after Thanksgiving in the United States, the holiday season starts with a “THE” shopping day called "Black Friday." Here's some info about what goes on after Thanksgiving in the USA:

Black Friday After Thanksgiving in the USA

1. Shopping Extravaganza

Black Friday is a super busy shopping day that comes right after Thanksgiving. On this day, you can find awesome deals and discounts at lots of stores, both in the actual shops and on the internet.

2. Early Morning Rush

To get the best deals on Black Friday, lots of shoppers wake up super early or even spend the night outside the stores. Some shops open their doors really early in the morning to let excited shoppers inside.

3. Doorbuster Deals

Stores give out "doorbuster" deals on Black Friday. These are a few super cheap items, so you need to be quick. These deals can be on things like gadgets, clothes, toys, and more. 

4. Holiday Shopping Kickoff

Black Friday is considered the official start of the holiday shopping season. Many people use this day to buy gifts for their friends and family at reduced prices.

5. Online Shopping

Lately, online shopping has become a big part of Black Friday. Many people like to look for deals and buy stuff from their own homes. Websites where you can shop online also have discounts on Black Friday.

6. Cyber Monday

The following Monday is known as "Cyber Monday," which is focused on online shopping deals. It's a continuation of the shopping spree that begins on Black Friday.

Thanksgiving in the USA is just like when Joey says, "What's not to like? Custard? Good. Jam? Good. Meat? Good.” It is a beautiful tradition that the people in the USA follow and everything about this festival is just happy! If you are celebrating Thanksgiving in the USA for the first time, it's going to be a tradition that is definitely going to stick around with you. Happy Thanksgiving!