Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving celebrates the ‘first’ Thanksgiving meal shared between Pilgrims and Native Americans in 1621. The meal was shared to thank the Native Americans for teaching the Pilgrims how to grow and harvest crops.

Who celebrates?

It is celebrated by Americans around the world. Thanksgiving is also celebrated in Canada in October and in Liberia in November.

How do people celebrate?

• Most families will come together and share a large Thanksgiving meal with traditional foods being turkey, corn-on-the-cob and pumpkin pie
• It is also a time to reflect on things you have been grateful or throughout the year – some families may share these thoughts around the table during their meal
• Many Americans watch NFL (American Football games) and the Thanksgiving day parade.

What should I know?

• Thanksgiving takes place on the fourth Thursday of November each year
• In the US, Thanksgiving is recognised as a national holiday and people take one or two days off work to spend time with their families and prepare Thanksgiving meals.

How can I support others?

• Ask people in your organisation if they will be celebrating
• Be understanding that this day has some controversy and may be sensitive for Native Americans due to how the story is told
• Be understanding that people may take the day off to spend with their families
• Encourage celebrations internally and externally
• Ask people if they would be willing to share what Thanksgiving means to them and what they are grateful for this year.

Independent: https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/what-is-thanksgiving-day-when-meaning-b1761908.html

BBC recipies: https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/collection/thanksgiving-day-recipes