Thanksgiving Day is one of the warmest and most beloved holidays in the United States. It is celebrated every year on the fourth Thursday of November. The holiday symbolizes gratitude for the harvest, health, family, and all the good things in life.
For Americans, Thanksgiving is not just a day off — it is a time to gather with family, enjoy a festive meal, and reflect on what they are thankful for. Even those who live far away often make a point to return home for this day.

The History of the Holiday

Thanksgiving traces its roots back to the 17th century. In 1620, a group of English settlers known as the Pilgrims arrived in North America aboard the Mayflower. Their first winter was harsh, and many perished. Thanks to the help of the local Native Americans, especially the Wampanoag tribe, the Pilgrims learned how to grow corn and survive.
In the fall of 1621, after their first successful harvest, the Pilgrims held a three-day feast together with the Native Americans. This event is considered the first Thanksgiving.
Thanksgiving became an official national holiday much later, in 1863, when President Abraham Lincoln declared it a day of gratitude and unity during the Civil War.

Main Traditions

Turkey — The Star of the Table

The centerpiece of the Thanksgiving meal is a roast turkey. It is served with cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and sweet potatoes. Turkey became a tradition because it was abundant in North America and easy to prepare.

Pies and Desserts

Pumpkin, apple, and pecan pies are traditional desserts. Pumpkin pie, in particular, symbolizes the harvest and the autumn season.

Words of Gratitude

Before the meal, each family member shares what they are thankful for. This simple yet meaningful tradition reminds everyone that happiness isn’t measured by material things.

Parades and Sports

Every year, New York hosts the famous Macy’s Parade — a colorful procession with orchestras, giant balloons, and performers. In the evening, millions of Americans watch football games, another Thanksgiving tradition.

Thanksgiving Today

Today, Thanksgiving is not only a family holiday but also a day of kindness. Many Americans volunteer, donate meals to the needy, or participate in charitable events.

It also marks the start of the holiday season: the day after Thanksgiving is Black Friday, the beginning of the winter shopping season, and cities are decorated with festive lights and ornaments.

Interesting Facts About Thanksgiving

Every year, the President of the United States participates in a “Turkey Pardon” ceremony, sparing one turkey from being eaten.

• Americans consume about 45 million turkeys on Thanksgiving.
• In Canada, Thanksgiving is celebrated earlier, on the second Monday in October.
• Traditional Thanksgiving meals take time to prepare, so many households start cooking early in the morning.
• Some families end the day with board games, songs, or watching classic movies.

Thanksgiving brings generations together and emphasizes simple values: family, home, friendship, and kindness. It is a day when people slow down and reflect on what they are grateful for.
The holiday teaches that gratitude is a universal language, understood and shared across all cultures.

Try It Yourself

Do you want to learn how Americans express gratitude and the common phrases they use at the Thanksgiving table?
Sign up for a free trial lesson with a native English speaker at Native Speakers Courses!

During the lesson, you will:

• Learn real expressions used at Thanksgiving,
• Discuss American traditions, food, and family rituals,
• Practice conversational skills and pronunciation.

Start now and experience the warm atmosphere of a real Thanksgiving with a native speaker!