The fourth Thursday of November marks Thanksgiving Day in the United States. In the midst of the Civil War, President Abraham Lincoln declared Thanksgiving a national holiday in 1863. The roots of Thanksgiving go back to some of the first colonists in the United States who shared a celebratory feast with Native Americans in the region after their first successful corn harvest in the New World. Learn more about the historical context of Thanksgiving.
Today, Thanksgiving is celebrated among families and friends in the U.S. with a big meal. Turkey and mashed potatoes are usually the center of the feast. Traditional activities that have developed with the holiday celebration include Thanksgiving Day parades, football games, volunteering and time with family. Thanksgiving also marks the start of the winter holiday season in the U.S. The Friday following Thanksgiving is the biggest shopping day of the year. Many stores have sales called “Black Friday” specials, which require shoppers to go to the store early in the morning to get good deals.
However you celebrate, have a happy Thanksgiving! Share some things that you are thankful for with your friends, family, and co-workers to get in the holiday spirit.