Happy Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a national holiday in the United States and Canada. Initially, it was a celebration of harvests and a time to express gratitude for the blessings of the past year. Today, it has become a special occasion for families to gather and enjoy delicious meals together. Let’s take a closer look at the history and significance of this meaningful holiday!

The origins of American Thanksgiving can be traced back to the 17th century when English colonists in America and the local Native Americans held a grand feast to celebrate a successful harvest. This event not only eased tensions between the two groups but also helped the settlers, who were struggling to adapt to the new land, improve their lives, ushering in a brief period of peace.

Over time, various regions began to choose their own dates to celebrate Thanksgiving. In 1863, thanks to the efforts of writer Sarah Josepha Hale, President Abraham Lincoln officially declared the last Thursday of November as a National Day of Thanksgiving. Later, President Franklin D. Roosevelt adjusted the date to the fourth Thursday of November, which remains the tradition today.

In Canada, Thanksgiving was influenced by the traditions of immigrants and was originally a time to give thanks for harvests and peace. Since 1957, Canada has celebrated Thanksgiving on the second Monday of October. It is said that the difference in dates between the two countries stems from variations in their harvest seasons due to climatic differences.

Thanksgiving is a day for family reunions, expressing gratitude to loved ones, and appreciating the good things in life. Classic Thanksgiving dishes include turkey, cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie. In addition to family gatherings, institutions like schools, military bases, and churches often prepare Thanksgiving meals for those unable to be with their families, spreading warmth and joy to everyone.

Beyond enjoying food, Thanksgiving features various celebratory activities. In the United States, Thanksgiving football games are a long-standing tradition, along with lively parades and the start of the holiday shopping season on Black Friday.  In Canada, fireworks displays add a festive touch. These activities infuse Thanksgiving with a mix of cultural tradition and modern cheer.

In Taiwan, we also have festivals that bring families together and celebrate gratitude and blessings, such as the Lunar New Year’s Eve reunion dinner and the year-end peace rituals. These occasions are not only about giving thanks but also about sharing blessings with one another. Let us celebrate this special day together and wish for bountiful success in our studies and life ahead!

Reference:

https://www.britannica.com/topic/Thanksgiving-Day

https://www.courier-journal.com/....../71652578007/

https://www.parenting.com.tw/article/5095391

https://www.ef.com/....../celebrate-first-thanksgiving-us/