Everything You Need to Know About Thanksgiving: History, Dinner, and Fun Facts

Thanksgiving is one of the most beloved holidays in the United States. It’s a time to gather with friends and family, enjoy a hearty Thanksgiving dinner, and reflect on the blessings of the past year. From its historical roots to modern traditions, let’s explore what makes Thanksgiving so special. Along the way, we’ll also touch on Thanksgiving trivia, family traditions, and the shopping frenzy that follows: Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

What Is Thanksgiving?

Thanksgiving is a national holiday celebrated in the United States on the fourth Thursday of November. The day is centered around gratitude and spending time with loved ones. It’s marked by elaborate meals, festive parades, and cherished traditions. Thanksgiving is also a prelude to the holiday shopping season, making it an exciting time of year for millions of Americans.

The History of Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving dates back to 1621, when the Pilgrims celebrated a successful harvest with the Wampanoag Native Americans in Plymouth, Massachusetts. The feast was a way to give thanks for the abundance of food and the support of their Native neighbors.

It wasn’t until 1863, during the Civil War, that President Abraham Lincoln declared Thanksgiving a national holiday. He set aside the last Thursday in November as a day for Americans to unite and express gratitude despite the nation’s struggles. In 1941, Congress officially established the fourth Thursday in November as Thanksgiving Day.

Fun Thanksgiving trivia: Did you know that the famous Thanksgiving turkey pardon by the President started as an informal tradition in the 1940s? Today, it’s a lighthearted ceremony that officially spares a turkey’s life.

Thanksgiving Dinner: The Heart of the Celebration

No Thanksgiving celebration is complete without a delicious Thanksgiving dinner. The traditional meal typically includes:

• Turkey: The star of the show, roasted to perfection.
• Stuffing and Gravy: Savory and rich, these sides are essential.
• Mashed Potatoes and Sweet Potatoes: Creamy and comforting staples.
• Cranberry Sauce: Sweet and tart, a perfect complement to the turkey.
• Pumpkin Pie: The classic dessert that completes the meal.

For some families, Thanksgiving dinner also features regional favorites like cornbread, green bean casserole, or pecan pie. Hosting a Thanksgiving dinner is no small task, but it’s a labor of love that brings everyone together around the table.

Thanksgiving Movies to Watch After Dinner

Once the dishes are cleared and everyone is stuffed with turkey, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie, the perfect way to unwind is by cozying up for some Thanksgiving-themed entertainment. Movies centered around Thanksgiving offer a blend of humor, nostalgia, and heartfelt moments, making them a wonderful way to keep the holiday spirit alive. Whether you’re sharing laughs with family or enjoying a quiet moment after a busy day, these films are sure to set the right tone for the evening.

Here are some timeless Thanksgiving movie favorites:

1. “Planes, Trains, and Automobiles”

Planes, Traind and Automobiles is a 1987 comedy classic, starring Steve Martin and John Candy, tells the hilarious tale of two mismatched travelers desperately trying to get home for Thanksgiving. Filled with laugh-out-loud moments, unexpected detours, and a heartfelt ending, this film highlights the lengths people will go to for family and tradition. Its humor is timeless, making it a favorite for all generations.

2. “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving”

For a dose of nostalgia, nothing beats this animated gem: A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving. In this 1973 TV special, Charlie Brown and the Peanuts gang create their own unconventional Thanksgiving dinner, complete with popcorn, toast, and jelly beans. It’s a charming reminder of the importance of friendship and gratitude, perfect for kids and adults alike. Pair it with a cup of hot cocoa and enjoy a trip down memory lane.

3. “Home for the Holidays”

Home for the Holidays is directed by Jodie Foster. This heartfelt dramedy dives into the chaos and quirks of a family Thanksgiving gathering. With a stellar cast including Holly Hunter and Robert Downey Jr., the movie portrays the love, tension, and humor that often come with family get-togethers. It’s relatable and touching, capturing the complexities of family dynamics with warmth and wit.

4. Honorable Mentions

• “The Blind Side”: While not entirely about Thanksgiving, this inspiring film features a memorable Thanksgiving scene that reflects themes of gratitude and family.
• “Pieces of April”: A quirky indie film about a young woman trying to host her first Thanksgiving dinner for her estranged family in a tiny apartment.
• “Dutch”: This lesser-known gem blends humor and heart as a man and his girlfriend’s son endure a wild road trip home for Thanksgiving.

Why Thanksgiving Movies Matter

These movies do more than just entertain, they encapsulate the essence of Thanksgiving. They celebrate themes of togetherness, gratitude, and the occasional chaos that makes the holiday so memorable. Watching Thanksgiving movies has become a cherished tradition for many families, offering a way to bond and reflect on what the holiday truly represents.

Whether you’re laughing at Steve Martin’s travel woes, reminiscing with Charlie Brown, or seeing your own family in the characters of “Home for the Holidays,” Thanksgiving movies provide a perfect blend of joy and reflection to end the day on a high note. So, grab a blanket, settle in, and let the magic of these films keep the Thanksgiving spirit alive!

Thanksgiving: Friends, Family, and Togetherness

At its core, Thanksgiving is about connecting with loved ones. For many, it’s the one time of year when extended family comes together. Some households host traditional Thanksgiving dinners, while others embrace more casual “Friendsgiving” celebrations with close friends.

No matter how you celebrate, Thanksgiving is an opportunity to:

• Share gratitude and reflect on the good things in life.
• Enjoy quality time with family and friends.
• Create new traditions and relive old ones.

Are Stores Open on Thanksgiving?

If you’re wondering whether stores are open on Thanksgiving, the short answer is no. Most major retailers close their doors on Thanksgiving Day to allow employees to enjoy the holiday with their families.

However, many stores offer extended hours on Thanksgiving Eve, making it a great time to pick up last-minute groceries or supplies for Thanksgiving dinner. And don’t forget, Black Friday sales start the very next day!

A Quick Note on Black Friday and Cyber Monday

Black Friday, the Friday after Thanksgiving, marks the unofficial start of the holiday shopping season. The term originated in the 1960s to describe the day retailers finally turned a profit (“in the black”). It’s a day of massive sales and early morning shopping sprees.

If you’d rather shop from the comfort of your home, Cyber Monday, the Monday after Thanksgiving, offers incredible online deals across all categories.

Thanksgiving Trivia to Impress Your Guests

Want to add some fun to your Thanksgiving celebration? Share these Thanksgiving trivia facts:

• The first Thanksgiving feast lasted three days!
• Americans eat an estimated 46 million turkeys on Thanksgiving.
• The tradition of watching football on Thanksgiving dates back to 1876, when Yale and Princeton played the first Thanksgiving Day football game.
• The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, one of the most iconic events, started in 1924.

Final Thoughts on Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is more than just a holiday; it’s a celebration of gratitude, togetherness, and tradition. From its historical origins to the modern-day Thanksgiving dinner, the holiday offers something for everyone. Whether you’re hosting family, watching a Thanksgiving movie, or gearing up for Black Friday, Thanksgiving is a time to cherish the things that truly matter.

So, as you gather with loved ones this Thanksgiving, take a moment to reflect on the holiday’s rich history and the joy of being surrounded by friends and family. And if you’re ready to shop, don’t forget to plan for the deals on Black Friday and Cyber Monday.

Happy Thanksgiving!