Thanksgiving has been celebrated in various forms throughout American history, with origins dating back to the early 17th century. In 1863, President Abraham Lincoln officially declared Thanksgiving a national holiday, setting the date as the final Thursday in November. Later, in 1941, Congress passed a resolution to establish Thanksgiving as the fourth Thursday in November. This decision created consistency for families and businesses, ensuring Thanksgiving would always be part of a four-day weekend, which remains popular today.
Thanksgiving Traditions: Celebrating Gratitude
Thanksgiving is a time for family, friends, and gratitude. Here are a few ways Americans celebrate:
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The Thanksgiving Feast: Traditional dishes include roast turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie. Each family has its unique recipes, and the meal often varies by region.
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Football Games: Watching football is a beloved Thanksgiving pastime, with the NFL hosting several Thanksgiving Day games that attract millions of viewers.
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The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade: A highlight of the holiday, this New York City parade features giant balloons, floats, and performances, drawing viewers nationwide.
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Giving Back: Many families volunteer or donate to charities on Thanksgiving, helping those in need enjoy a meal or holiday warmth.
Preparing for Thanksgiving 2024
With Thanksgiving 2024 on November 28, now is a great time to plan. Here are a few tips:
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Travel Plans: Thanksgiving is one of the busiest travel times of the year, so book flights, trains, or rental cars early to avoid high prices and limited availability.
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Meal Prep: Planning the menu ahead, shopping early, and prepping dishes in advance can help keep stress low and ensure a smooth Thanksgiving feast.
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Gathering Essentials: If hosting, check your kitchen supplies, decorations, and seating to ensure everything is ready for guests.
Thanksgiving is celebrated each year on the fourth Thursday in November, a tradition that has held since 1941 when Congress officially set the holiday's date. In 2024, Thanksgiving will be observed on Thursday, November 28. This date aligns with the longstanding practice that ensures Thanksgiving always falls within the last full week of November, creating a beloved four-day weekend for many families across the country.
Knowing the date early gives ample time to make travel plans, prepare your feast, and coordinate gatherings with family and friends. With Thanksgiving on November 28 in 2024, it’s also closer to December, bringing Thanksgiving and the start of the holiday season even closer together.