Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving Day is observed in the United States on the fourth Thursday of November each year. It’s one of the most important family holidays, with Christmas preparations and Black Friday sales right around the corner.

History

The holiday traces back to 1621, when Pilgrims at Plymouth Colony in Massachusetts held a three-day harvest feast after a successful first harvest. Many settlers had perished during their first winter, and the Wampanoag people taught them how to cultivate local crops. To express gratitude, the colony’s governor declared a feast and invited their Wampanoag allies to join the celebration.

During the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed a national Thanksgiving Day in 1863. However, dates varied by state until Congress fixed the holiday in 1941 as the fourth Thursday in November. Today, families gather to give thanks and share a meal that traditionally includes roast turkey, cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, pumpkin pie, and other classic dishes.

Interesting Facts

• Wild turkeys were once considered the most likely candidate for America’s national bird; Benjamin Franklin famously preferred it to the bald eagle.
• New York City’s Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade began in 1924 and draws millions of spectators each year.
• The White House turkey pardon has been an annual tradition since the mid-20th century, sending one lucky bird to live out its life on a farm.

How to Take Part

• Plan a festive menu in advance—try new side dishes or heritage recipes passed down through your family.
• Set the table with seasonal decorations and place cards to welcome each guest.
• Share what you’re thankful for by going around the table and inviting each person to speak.
• If you can’t be together in person, send heartfelt cards or arrange a video call to celebrate virtually.

When is Thanksgiving Day in 2025?

Thanksgiving Day is observed on the fourth Thursday in November each year.

Observations