Thanksgiving Traditions

As the autumn leaves begin to fall and the scent of pumpkin spice fills the air, anticipation builds for one of the most cherished holidays of the year: Thanksgiving. This special time serves as a reminder to have gratitude and appreciation for the blessings in our lives. It is a time for families to reconnect, reminisce about shared memories, and strengthen the bonds that tie us together.

Thanksgiving is steeped in history, honoring the spirit of unity between early settlers and Native Americans who came together in Plymouth in 1621 to celebrate the harvest. The feast was more than just a meal; it was a demonstration of friendship and mutual respect between the English colonists and the Wampanoag people. According to an article written by National Geographic Kids, the first Thanksgiving meal “...consisted of deer, corn, shellfish, and roasted meat, different from today's traditional Thanksgiving feast. [Alongside the culinary offerings, the people] played ball games, sang, and danced.” Today, this spirit transcends borders, as countries such as Canada, Japan, Germany, Australia, and Brazil join the celebration of gratitude.

In my family, Thanksgiving traditions revolve around the joyous act of cooking and sharing a meal. We organize a festive get-together filled with laughter, playful board games, and the delightful dishes we have prepared together. This sentiment resonates with Mia Chu, a freshman at Tesoro, who shares, “For Thanksgiving, my family and I create our favorite foods and enjoy a grand feast together.”

Thanksgiving is not just a holiday; it is an opportunity to honor traditions, embrace loved ones, and express heartfelt gratitude. As we gather around the table each year, let us remember to cherish these moments and celebrate the diverse ways we give thanks.