Family Thanksgiving Traditions to Start in 2024

Thanksgiving traditions are what make this holiday feel so magical, bringing families together in ways that never fail to warm our hearts. Think back to those crisp autumn days when the smell of roasted turkey filled the air, and laughter echoed around the dinner table. 

These moments aren’t just about celebrating but about remembering and reconnecting. Every dish, every story told, and every cheer for the Thanksgiving football game holds a special place in our hearts, making this day a true celebration of gratitude and togetherness.

The very first Thanksgiving happened in 1621. The pilgrims, who were early settlers in America, celebrated their first successful harvest in Plymouth, Massachusetts. They invited the Wampanoag people to join them in a feast. They all shared foods like turkey, corn, and pumpkin. This feast lasted for three days and marked the beginning of a tradition we still celebrate today.

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In 1789, George Washington, the first President of the United States, declared a national day of Thanksgiving. He wanted everyone to take a moment to be thankful for the country’s independence and blessings. This proclamation helped to unify the country and set a precedent for future Thanksgiving celebrations.

Read the full history of Thanksgiving Day on Wikipedia

Later, in 1863, President Abraham Lincoln made Thanksgiving an official holiday to be celebrated on the last Thursday of November. He hoped it would help heal the nation during the Civil War by encouraging people to unite in gratitude. Lincoln’s proclamation emphasized the importance of giving thanks for our blessings, even during difficult times.

Early settlers celebrated Thanksgiving by praising their harvests and sharing meals with their neighbors. They often included games and prayers as part of their celebrations. These early traditions laid the groundwork for the Thanksgiving celebrations we know today.

Today, Thanksgiving is celebrated with large family gatherings. People enjoy a big feast that often includes turkey, cranberry sauce, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, green beans, and pumpkin pie. These dishes have become staples of the Thanksgiving meal and are enjoyed by families nationwide.

One of the most exciting Thanksgiving traditions is the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade in New York City. Huge balloons, floats, and marching bands fill the streets, delighting millions of viewers. The parade has become a beloved part of the holiday and a symbol of the festive spirit of Thanksgiving.

In some schools, children celebrate Thanksgiving Basket Day by bringing food to share with their classmates. This tradition teaches kids the importance of sharing and being thankful. It also helps them understand the value of community and working together to help those in need.

Watching football is a popular Thanksgiving tradition. Many families gather around the TV to watch the annual NFL Thanksgiving Day games. This tradition adds excitement and fun to the holiday, as people cheer for their favorite teams.

To coincide with the fall season, many people decorate their homes with autumn-themed colors. From the tablecloth on the dinner table to the floral centerpiece, we can go for any decoration that’s red, orange, or yellow. Pumpkins, gourds, and autumn leaves are also popular decorations.

Many people use Thanksgiving as an opportunity to give back to their communities. Volunteering at soup kitchens, donating food, or participating in charity events are common ways people help those in need during the holiday season.

In many cities, people participate in Turkey Trot races on Thanksgiving morning. These fun runs or walks help people get active before the big feast and often raise money for charitable causes.

Friendsgiving is a newer Thanksgiving tradition where friends gather to celebrate the holiday together, usually with a potluck dinner. This is especially popular among people who may not be able to spend Thanksgiving with their families. 

The traditional Thanksgiving meal includes turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, green beans, and pumpkin pie. These dishes have become staples of the holiday and are enjoyed by families all across the country.

Thanksgiving traditions are all about being grateful. When we think about what we are thankful for, it makes us happier and healthier. Being grateful can help us sleep better, feel less stressed, and even strengthen our immune system. Gratitude, an essential part of Thanksgiving traditions, helps us appreciate the good things in life and can improve our overall well-being.

Let’s also remember to be kind and help those who are less fortunate. By spreading kindness, we can make the world a better place for everyone. Simple acts of kindness, like donating to charity or helping a neighbor, can have a big impact.

Thanksgiving is more than just a holiday; it’s a time to be grateful and to celebrate with those we love. By understanding and celebrating these traditions, we continue to honor the spirit of Thanksgiving.

Happy Thanksgiving Day!