Thanksgiving 2023: A Celebration of Gratitude and Tradition
Date of Thanksgiving USA 2023
Thanksgiving 2023 will be observed on Thursday, November 23. As a longstanding tradition, Thanksgiving always falls on the fourth Thursday in November. The history of Thanksgiving dates back to the late 18th century when President George Washington designated November 26 as a day of National Thanksgiving in 1789. Later, in 1863, President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed the last Thursday in November as a day to observe Thanksgiving during the Civil War. Finally, in 1941, President Franklin Roosevelt declared the fourth Thursday in November as Thanksgiving, which has been followed ever since.
Thanksgiving is known as a holiday that brings families together to celebrate and give thanks for the blessings in their lives. It is a time to express gratitude and enjoy a special meal with loved ones. In addition to the date of Thanksgiving, people often have questions about the history and origins of this beloved holiday.
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History and Origins of Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving has its roots in harvest festivals celebrated by Native Americans and early European settlers in the 1600s. The most famous Thanksgiving celebration is the one that took place in 1621 when the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag Native Americans came together for a harvest feast. The Pilgrims, who had recently arrived in Plymouth, Massachusetts, shared a meal with the Native Americans as a way to express gratitude for a successful harvest and to forge alliances.
The idea of a national Thanksgiving holiday gained traction in the late 18th century. In 1789, President George Washington issued a proclamation designating November 26 as a day of National Thanksgiving. This was done to unite the nation and give thanks for the establishment of the new government. President Abraham Lincoln later proclaimed a national Thanksgiving Day to be held each November, in 1863, during the Civil War. This was an effort to foster unity and express gratitude for the blessings of the nation. President Franklin D. Roosevelt briefly changed the date of Thanksgiving in 1939, moving it to the second-to-last Thursday in November, but it was changed back to the fourth Thursday in 1941.
The history and origins of Thanksgiving are rooted in the spirit of gratitude and coming together as a community. It is a holiday that reminds us of the importance of expressing appreciation and celebrating the blessings in our lives.
Traditional Thanksgiving Activities and Customs
Thanksgiving is a holiday associated with various traditional activities and customs. The centerpiece of Thanksgiving is a feast featuring a roasted turkey, often accompanied by stuffing, potatoes, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie. This bountiful meal symbolizes the abundance of the harvest season and is shared among family and friends.
Another tradition is the act of giving back to the community. Many people engage in volunteering and charitable activities during Thanksgiving, extending the spirit of gratitude to those in need. This can include serving meals at shelters, donating to food drives, or participating in fundraisers for local charities. These acts of kindness and generosity reflect the true meaning of Thanksgiving.
Parades are also a popular tradition, with the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City being the most famous. This colorful event features giant floats, marching bands, and performances, bringing joy to both participants and spectators alike. It is a beloved tradition that has been entertaining families for decades.
Additionally, the presidential pardoning of turkeys has become a well-known Thanksgiving custom, where the president spares the lives of two turkeys that would have otherwise been destined for the dinner table. This lighthearted gesture adds a touch of humor to the holiday and has become a symbol of compassion and mercy.
These traditions and customs are an integral part of Thanksgiving, creating a sense of unity and celebration among communities across the country.
Popular Thanksgiving Recipes
Traditional Thanksgiving recipes are beloved by many, and they offer a delicious way to celebrate the holiday. The star of the Thanksgiving table is usually a roast turkey, which is often accompanied by stuffing and gravy. Mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and green bean casserole are common side dishes that complement the turkey. When it comes to desserts, pumpkin pie, apple pie, and pecan pie are popular choices to satisfy the sweet tooth. Of course, there are variations and additional recipes available to cater to individual preferences and dietary restrictions. From vegetarian stuffing to gluten-free pies, there are options for everyone to enjoy a memorable Thanksgiving meal.
In addition to the traditional dishes, many families have their own unique recipes that have been passed down through generations. These cherished family recipes add a personal touch to the Thanksgiving table and create a sense of nostalgia. Whether it’s Grandma’s famous sweet potato casserole or Aunt Susan’s homemade cranberry relish, these family favorites make Thanksgiving even more special.
With the abundance of delicious recipes available, Thanksgiving is a time to indulge in comfort food and savor the flavors of the season. It is a culinary celebration that brings joy and satisfaction to all who gather around the table.
Businesses Hours on Thanksgiving
Business hours on Thanksgiving can vary. While some businesses choose to close for the day, allowing employees to celebrate with their families, many retail stores and online retailers offer special Thanksgiving Day sales and promotions. This has become a popular tradition known as “Black Friday” where shoppers can take advantage of discounted prices and start their holiday shopping early. It is advisable to check with specific businesses for their operating hours on Thanksgiving to plan your shopping or other activities accordingly.
In recent years, there has been a growing trend of businesses choosing to remain closed on Thanksgiving Day to prioritize the well-being and time off of their employees. This shift reflects a recognition of the importance of work-life balance and the value of spending time with loved ones during the holiday season.
Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to open on Thanksgiving is up to individual businesses and their respective industries. It is important to respect and support those businesses that prioritize the well-being of their employees and choose to close on Thanksgiving. Stores like Dollar General, Dollar Tree, and some food retail stores remain open on Thanksgiving.
Celebrate Thanksgiving 2023 with Gratitude and Joy
Thanksgiving is a time of gratitude, celebration, and togetherness. It is an opportunity to express appreciation for life’s blessings and spend quality time with loved ones. Whether it’s enjoying a festive feast, participating in volunteer work, watching parades, or simply embracing the spirit of gratitude, Thanksgiving offers a chance to create lasting memories and strengthen bonds with family and friends. So, mark your calendars for November 23, 2023, and prepare to celebrate Thanksgiving with gratitude and joy.
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