Thanksgiving Day

Thanksgiving Day celebrates the Pilgrims’ first harvest in the New World in October 1621. It was a traditional feast aimed to thank God for all the blessings they received.

About Thanksgiving Day

It began as a harvest festival and has been celebrated since the XVIIIth century. It has a historical meaning related to the Europeans arrived in the Americas and a religious meaning related to praising thanks for all that we have. Thanksgiving Day celebrates all the riches of the American land and is considered the beginning of the winter season. It was proclaimed a federal holiday in 1863 by Abraham Lincoln and has been celebrated since.

How is the Thanksgiving Day celebrated?

On Thanksgiving Day people offer food and donations to the poor. It’s an occasion for charitable actions. It’s also an occasion for family reunions; Thanksgiving dinner is probably the most famous American meal. Turkey is a traditional food, accompanied by potatoes, corn, and pumpkin pie. Thanksgiving Day is also an occasion for religious services, mealtime prayers, public events, and sports.

When is Thanksgiving Day?

Thanksgiving Day is celebrated each year on the fourth Thursday of November.

Is Thanksgiving Day a federal holiday?

Thanksgiving Day is one of the ten federal holidays recognized by the United States Government. Federal non-essential government offices and many private businesses are closed on Thanksgiving Day.

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Discover the complete list of US business holidays and federal holidays.