Thanksgiving is almost here!
This year, Thanksgiving apparently looks a bit different as we’re still grappling with the pandemic. But that shouldn’t hamper your spirits. You can have a simple yet meaningful celebration with the people you love.
As much as it’s important to prepare the recipes for stuffing, cornbread, turkey, and pies, it’s also essential to remember some holiday facts and how Thanksgiving was celebrated back then.
Not a National Holiday at First
Lincoln made Thanksgiving a national holiday during his time. But Thomas Jefferson, who believed in the separation of church and state, refused to declare it a national holiday. He thought recognizing the event would violate the First Amendment. He also didn’t consider Thanksgiving a federal holiday but a state one.
A Three-Day Affair
At present, Thanksgiving is celebrated for a day. But did you know that it was 3-day affair back then? In 1621, the settlers’ first corn harvest was so successful that Governor William invited the Plymouth colonists’ Native American allies to a huge gathering. Food was shared among members of the Wampanoag tribe. With so much harvest, the revelers extended the celebration to two more days making the holiday a 3-day affair.
No Turkey at the Feast
Turkey is the star of Thanksgiving. But no one actually confirmed if it was included in the feast back in 1621. The revelers enjoyed a sumptuous meal consisting of lobster, swan, and seal. Even the Wampanoag tribe brought five deer to the feast. Now if you like to include venison in your celebration, consider yourselves impeccably in alignment with this long-established tradition.
No Balloons on the Very First Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
Ever saw those giant floats which feature your favorite characters on Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade? Well, it wasn’t like that before. In the 1920s, puppets were seen riding the floats as well as Santa Claus and a few celebrities. But when the parade made its big debut in 1924, there was something a bit wilder than balloons —animals from Central Park Zoo.
46 million Turkeys
Would you believe that there’s a staggering 46 million turkeys for Thanksgiving every year? The almighty bird is that special among American families. It’s apparently not popular throughout the rest of the year. But for Thanksgiving, you can’t have a feast without a turkey as it can serve large gatherings.
Whether you have an intimate celebration at home with a few friends over or celebrate virtually, the little tidbits above will help keep the conversation going. It’s weird how things are moving this year, but let’s be thankful that we’re all safe, healthy, and with our loved ones at home.