Thanksgiving is an annual holiday primarily celebrated in the United States on the fourth Thursday of November, marking gratitude for the harvest and life's blessings through family gatherings and feasts.

History

The modern U.S. holiday draws from a 1621 harvest feast between Plymouth colonists (Pilgrims) and the Wampanoag people, though it evolved through proclamations by George Washington in 1789 and Abraham Lincoln in 1863, becoming federally fixed in 1941. Canada observes it earlier on the second Monday in October.

Traditions

Families share a meal centered on turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and pies like pumpkin or pecan, often preceded by prayers or grace. Many watch football games, attend church, or shop on the following day, known as Black Friday.

Meaning

At its core, Thanksgiving involves public or personal expressions of thanks, rooted in religious gratitude but now largely secular, emphasizing togetherness amid cultural changes.