What Day Is Thanksgiving This Year? If you’re asking that question, you’re not alone! WHAT.EDU.VN provides the answer and everything you need to know about this cherished holiday, ensuring you’re well-prepared for the festivities. Uncover the history, fun facts, and shopping dates associated with Thanksgiving.
1. Finding The Exact Thanksgiving Day Date
Thanksgiving is always celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November. This means the holiday can fall anywhere between November 22nd and November 28th, depending on the year.
In 2024, Thanksgiving Day is on Thursday, November 28th. Get ready to enjoy your turkey dinner then!
Keep in mind that this later date means there will be fewer days between Thanksgiving and Christmas for holiday shopping. Plan accordingly to snag those deals.
For reference, in 2023, Thanksgiving was on November 23rd, and in 2025, it will be on November 27th.
2. The Reason Behind Thanksgiving’s Thursday Celebration
The tradition of celebrating Thanksgiving on a Thursday dates back over 230 years. In 1789, President George Washington declared November 26th as a National Day of Thanksgiving.
However, even before that, American colonists had been celebrating their harvest bounty with gatherings. The first recorded Thanksgiving took place in 1621. Some historians suggest that Thanksgiving feasts may have occurred as early as 1565. You can find historical records from the Washington Post.
Initially, November 26th was the designated date. But in 1863, Abraham Lincoln changed it to the last Thursday of November. This was to differentiate it from fixed-date holidays like Christmas or the Fourth of July.
In 1939, the last Thursday of November coincided with the very last day of the month. This drastically shortened the Christmas shopping season, raising concerns about the nation’s economic recovery from the Great Depression.
In 1941, President Franklin Roosevelt signed a resolution. This officially declared the fourth Thursday in November as Thanksgiving Day, and it has remained that way ever since.
3. Interesting Facts About Thanksgiving
Most people know the basics of Thanksgiving history. The Pilgrims arrived in America on the Mayflower and landed at Plymouth Rock.
Actually, the Pilgrims’ first stop was Cape Cod in Provincetown in 1620, according to the Boston Globe. They spent over five weeks there before realizing the sandy terrain wasn’t suitable for planting crops. Then, they moved on.
The first recorded Thanksgiving between the settlers and Native Americans took place a year later. It likely featured venison, goose, duck, fish, and corn porridge, rather than the elaborate turkey feasts we know today.
Want to know which Native American tribe shared that first three-day feast with the Pilgrims? Curious how many Pilgrims attended? You can discover these and other intriguing Thanksgiving trivia questions right here.
4. When are Black Friday and Cyber Monday in 2024?
Now that you know when Thanksgiving is, you probably want to know when Black Friday and Cyber Monday are. This will help you prepare to score the best holiday deals.
Black Friday always falls on the day after Thanksgiving. In 2024, it will be on Friday, November 29th.
Cyber Monday is on Monday, December 2nd. This gives you just over three weeks to finish your holiday shopping.
5. Thanksgiving Traditions and Customs
Thanksgiving is a holiday rich in traditions and customs, many of which have evolved over centuries. Understanding these can deepen your appreciation for this special day.
5.1. The Thanksgiving Feast
The centerpiece of Thanksgiving is undoubtedly the feast. A typical Thanksgiving meal includes:
- Turkey: Often roasted or fried, it’s the main dish.
- Stuffing/Dressing: A mixture of bread, herbs, and vegetables baked inside or alongside the turkey.
- Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and comforting, often served with gravy.
- Gravy: Made from turkey drippings, it adds richness to the potatoes and turkey.
- Cranberry Sauce: A tart and sweet condiment.
- Sweet Potato Casserole: Often topped with marshmallows or pecans.
- Green Bean Casserole: A creamy dish made with green beans, mushroom soup, and fried onions.
- Corn: Served as corn on the cob or creamed corn.
- Rolls/Biscuits: Freshly baked bread for sopping up gravy.
- Pumpkin Pie: The quintessential Thanksgiving dessert.
- Apple Pie: Another popular dessert choice.
This feast represents the abundance of the harvest and the blessings of the past year.
5.2. Thanksgiving Day Parade
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is a beloved tradition for many Americans. It features:
- Giant Balloons: Characters from popular culture float through the streets of New York City.
- Floats: Elaborately decorated vehicles showcasing various themes.
- Marching Bands: High school and college bands from across the country perform.
- Performers: Singers, dancers, and Broadway stars entertain the crowds.
- Santa Claus: His appearance marks the unofficial start of the Christmas season.
The parade is broadcast nationwide and watched by millions of viewers.
5.3. Football Games
Watching football is another popular Thanksgiving tradition. The NFL typically schedules games throughout the day, providing entertainment for families gathered together.
5.4. Giving Thanks
At its core, Thanksgiving is a time to express gratitude. Many families take time during the meal to share what they are thankful for. This can be a simple and meaningful way to connect and appreciate the good things in life.
5.5. Volunteering and Charity
Thanksgiving is also a time for giving back to the community. Many people volunteer at food banks, soup kitchens, or other organizations to help those in need. This reinforces the spirit of generosity and compassion that is central to the holiday.
6. Thanksgiving Around the World: Similar Harvest Festivals
While Thanksgiving, as celebrated in the United States and Canada, is unique, many cultures around the world have similar harvest festivals that share the common theme of gratitude for a successful harvest.
6.1. Canada: Thanksgiving
Canadian Thanksgiving is celebrated on the second Monday in October. It shares many of the same traditions as American Thanksgiving, including a large feast with turkey, stuffing, and pumpkin pie. The holiday is a time to give thanks for the year’s harvest and other blessings.
6.2. China: Mid-Autumn Festival
The Mid-Autumn Festival, also known as the Moon Festival, is a popular harvest festival celebrated in Chinese cultures. It falls on the 15th day of the 8th month of the lunar calendar, usually in September or October. Families gather to admire the full moon, eat mooncakes, and give thanks for the harvest.
6.3. Korea: Chuseok
Chuseok is a major harvest festival in Korea, celebrated on the 15th day of the 8th month of the lunar calendar. Families visit their ancestral homes, perform memorial services, and share a feast of traditional foods, including songpyeon (rice cakes).
6.4. Japan: Labor Thanksgiving Day
Labor Thanksgiving Day is a national holiday in Japan celebrated on November 23rd. It’s a day to give thanks for labor and production and to celebrate the fruits of the harvest.
6.5. Germany: Erntedankfest
Erntedankfest is a German harvest festival celebrated in late September or early October. Churches are decorated with fruits, vegetables, and grains, and families enjoy a traditional meal.
6.6. United Kingdom: Harvest Festival
Harvest Festival is celebrated in the United Kingdom in September or October. Churches and schools hold services to give thanks for the harvest. People often bring donations of food to give to those in need.
6.7. West Africa: Yam Festivals
In West Africa, many cultures celebrate yam festivals to give thanks for the yam harvest. These festivals often involve elaborate ceremonies, feasts, and dances.
These are just a few examples of the many harvest festivals celebrated around the world. While the specific customs and traditions may vary, the underlying theme of gratitude for the earth’s bounty is universal.
7. Planning Your Thanksgiving Dinner: Tips and Ideas
Planning a Thanksgiving dinner can be a daunting task, but with some preparation and organization, you can create a memorable and enjoyable meal for your family and friends.
7.1. Guest List and Budget
Start by creating a guest list to determine how many people you will be feeding. This will help you estimate the amount of food you need and set a budget for your Thanksgiving dinner.
7.2. Menu Planning
Once you have your guest list and budget, you can start planning your menu. Consider the dietary needs and preferences of your guests. Decide which dishes you want to make from scratch and which ones you want to buy pre-made.
7.3. Shopping List
Create a detailed shopping list based on your menu. Organize the list by grocery store sections to make shopping easier. Check your pantry and refrigerator to see what ingredients you already have on hand.
7.4. Timeline and Schedule
Develop a timeline and schedule for preparing your Thanksgiving dinner. Break down the tasks into smaller steps and assign time slots for each task. This will help you stay organized and avoid feeling overwhelmed.
7.5. Turkey Preparation
The turkey is the centerpiece of the Thanksgiving meal, so it’s important to prepare it properly. Decide whether you want to roast, fry, or smoke your turkey. Thaw the turkey in the refrigerator for several days before cooking. Season the turkey with herbs, spices, and salt.
7.6. Side Dish Preparation
Prepare as many side dishes as possible in advance. Many side dishes can be made a day or two ahead of time and reheated on Thanksgiving Day. This will free up your time and oven space on the big day.
7.7. Dessert Preparation
Don’t forget about dessert! Pumpkin pie is a classic Thanksgiving dessert, but you can also offer other pies, cakes, or cookies. Make the desserts ahead of time to reduce stress on Thanksgiving Day.
7.8. Setting the Table
Set the table the day before Thanksgiving. This will save you time and allow you to focus on cooking. Use your best china, silverware, and glassware. Add a festive centerpiece to create a welcoming atmosphere.
7.9. Enjoy the Day
Most importantly, remember to relax and enjoy the day with your family and friends. Thanksgiving is a time to celebrate and give thanks, so don’t let the stress of cooking overshadow the joy of the occasion.
8. Fun Thanksgiving Activities for the Whole Family
Thanksgiving is more than just a delicious meal; it’s a time for family, friends, and fun. Here are some activities to keep everyone entertained:
8.1. Thanksgiving Trivia
Test your knowledge of Thanksgiving history and traditions with a fun trivia game. You can find trivia questions online or create your own. Offer prizes for the winners.
8.2. Thanksgiving Crafts
Get creative with Thanksgiving-themed crafts. Make handprint turkeys, decorate pumpkins, or create a gratitude tree. This is a great activity for kids and adults alike.
8.3. Thanksgiving Movie Marathon
Snuggle up on the couch and watch Thanksgiving-themed movies. Some popular choices include “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving,” “Planes, Trains, and Automobiles,” and “Home for the Holidays.”
8.4. Thanksgiving Games
Play classic board games or card games. This is a great way to spend quality time with family and friends.
8.5. Outdoor Activities
If the weather is nice, go for a walk, play football, or have a scavenger hunt in the backyard.
8.6. Volunteer Together
Spend time giving back to the community by volunteering at a food bank, soup kitchen, or homeless shelter.
8.7. Share What You’re Thankful For
Go around the table and have everyone share what they are thankful for. This is a meaningful way to connect and appreciate the good things in life.
8.8. Create a Family Cookbook
Gather your family’s favorite recipes and create a Thanksgiving cookbook. This is a great way to preserve family traditions and pass them on to future generations.
8.9. Take Family Photos
Capture memories of your Thanksgiving celebration by taking family photos. These photos will be cherished for years to come.
8.10. Relax and Enjoy
Most importantly, remember to relax and enjoy the company of your loved ones. Thanksgiving is a time to celebrate and give thanks, so make the most of it.
9. Frequently Asked Questions About Thanksgiving
Here are some frequently asked questions about Thanksgiving:
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| Why is Thanksgiving celebrated? | Thanksgiving is celebrated to give thanks for the year’s harvest and other blessings. |
| When is Thanksgiving celebrated in the US? | The fourth Thursday in November. |
| When is Thanksgiving celebrated in Canada? | The second Monday in October. |
| What is the traditional Thanksgiving meal? | Turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, gravy, cranberry sauce, sweet potato casserole, green bean casserole, corn, rolls, pumpkin pie, and apple pie. |
| What are some common Thanksgiving traditions? | The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, watching football games, giving thanks, volunteering, and spending time with family and friends. |
| What are some fun Thanksgiving activities? | Thanksgiving trivia, crafts, movie marathons, games, outdoor activities, and sharing what you’re thankful for. |
| What is Black Friday? | The day after Thanksgiving, known for its deep discounts and shopping deals. |
| What is Cyber Monday? | The Monday after Thanksgiving, known for its online shopping deals. |
| What are some other harvest festivals around the world? | Mid-Autumn Festival (China), Chuseok (Korea), Labor Thanksgiving Day (Japan), Erntedankfest (Germany), Harvest Festival (UK), and Yam Festivals (West Africa). |
| How can I plan a stress-free Thanksgiving dinner? | Start early, plan ahead, create a timeline, delegate tasks, and remember to relax and enjoy the day. |
10. Understanding the Significance of Thanksgiving
Beyond the feasting and festivities, Thanksgiving holds a deeper significance rooted in history, culture, and the human spirit.
10.1. Acknowledging Gratitude
At its core, Thanksgiving is a holiday dedicated to expressing gratitude. It’s a time to reflect on the blessings in our lives – family, friends, health, and the simple joys that often go unnoticed. By consciously acknowledging these blessings, we cultivate a sense of contentment and appreciation.
10.2. Remembering History
Thanksgiving’s historical roots are complex and often romanticized. While the traditional narrative focuses on the Pilgrims’ first harvest and their shared meal with Native Americans, it’s important to acknowledge the full context of that encounter. The holiday serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by early settlers and the complex relationship between European colonists and indigenous populations.
10.3. Celebrating Community
Thanksgiving is a time for coming together. It’s an opportunity to connect with loved ones, share a meal, and create lasting memories. The holiday fosters a sense of community and belonging.
10.4. Embracing Generosity
Thanksgiving often inspires acts of generosity and kindness. Many people volunteer their time, donate to food banks, or offer support to those in need. This spirit of giving back is an essential part of the holiday’s meaning.
10.5. Reflecting on Values
Thanksgiving provides an opportunity to reflect on our values. What truly matters to us? What are we most grateful for? How can we live more meaningful lives? The holiday encourages introspection and self-awareness.
10.6. Creating New Traditions
While honoring traditional customs is important, Thanksgiving also allows for the creation of new traditions. Families can personalize the holiday with their own unique rituals, recipes, and activities. This helps to keep the holiday fresh and relevant for future generations.
10.7. Looking Forward
As we give thanks for the past year, Thanksgiving also offers a moment to look forward to the future. It’s a time to set goals, make plans, and embrace new opportunities. The holiday inspires hope and optimism.
10.8. Appreciating Diversity
Thanksgiving can be a time to celebrate diversity and inclusion. By acknowledging the contributions of different cultures and backgrounds, we can create a more welcoming and inclusive holiday for everyone.
10.9. Promoting Sustainability
Thanksgiving can also be an opportunity to promote sustainability. By making conscious choices about food sourcing, waste reduction, and energy consumption, we can minimize our environmental impact.
10.10. Living with Gratitude Year-Round
Ultimately, the true significance of Thanksgiving lies in its ability to inspire a year-round practice of gratitude. By cultivating a daily attitude of thankfulness, we can experience greater joy, resilience, and connection in our lives.
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