Modern Thanksgiving

A Coming Together of Traditions

Thanksgiving is one of those celebrations that feels steeped in tradition, yet it’s constantly evolving. The essence of the holiday, a time to gather, give thanks, and indulge – remains steadfast, but the details have shifted over the centuries. Let’s dive into the origins, evolution, and modern twists of Thanksgiving, peeling back the layers of what makes it a unique and fascinating celebration.

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Turkey: The Star of the Feast

Turkey wasn’t always the leading act of Thanksgiving dinners. In the early days, the Pilgrims’ table likely featured venison, seafood, and local vegetables. By the 19th century, however, turkey cemented its place as the holiday’s culinary icon.

Why did the Pilgrims eat Turkey?

It’s practical. Turkeys are native to North America, large enough to feed a family, and don’t double as dairy or egg producers like cows or chickens. Over time, cultural influences, including Norman Rockwell’s iconic Freedom from Want painting, solidified turkey as the face of Thanksgiving.

Rockwell’s 1943 artwork, part of his Four Freedoms series (displayed on the right), depicts a family presenting a golden turkey at the centre of a bountiful feast. While the painting doesn’t explicitly scream “Thanksgiving,” the image of family, food, and festivity resonated deeply with Americans, particularly during the turmoil of World War II. Today, it’s an indelible symbol of the holiday.

A Feast of Evolving Traditions

The modern Thanksgiving table is a symphony of comfort foods: mashed potatoes, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie. Interestingly, many of these staples are 19th-century additions, not colonial creations.

Take pumpkin pie, for instance. While pumpkins were abundant, Pilgrims didn’t have ovens to bake pies as we know them today. Similarly, mashed potatoes weren’t a thing in 1621. For us Brits, the concept of pumpkin pie feels foreign, roast potatoes and pumpkin soup are more familiar sights. Yum.

Still, the meal is a celebration of autumn’s bounty, blending culinary influences from across centuries. It’s the ultimate homage to seasonal abundance.

Football: Thanksgiving’s Favourite Game

Thanksgiving isn’t just about food; it’s also about football, American football, that is. Not “proper football” as I would call it! This tradition dates back to the late 1800s when college teams started scheduling games on Thanksgiving Day. Today, the NFL takes centre stage, with televised games drawing millions of viewers, providing a post-feast activity for families.

For UK readers, think of it as Thanksgiving’s version of Boxing Day football, a cherished time to gather with family and friends for a shared love of the game. The atmosphere, camaraderie, and tradition are universal, whether the game is football or “football”.

The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade

A tradition nearly as iconic as the turkey is the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. First held in 1924, this extravaganza is televised nationwide, featuring giant balloons, marching bands, and celebrity performances. If you’ve seen Miracle on 34th Street, you’ll recognise the parade’s magic, it’s as much a symbol of Thanksgiving as the feast itself.

Community Spirit and Commercialisation

Thanksgiving isn’t just about personal indulgence; it’s also a time for community care. Many organisations host food drives and soup kitchens to ensure everyone has a meal to enjoy. This emphasis on giving back adds a deeper layer of meaning to the holiday.

However, Thanksgiving’s charitable vibes shift abruptly the following day. Black Friday transforms the post-Thanksgiving lull into a retail frenzy, kicking off the Christmas shopping season. While Black Friday has its critics, it’s become an undeniable part of the Thanksgiving weekend.

Thanksgiving’s Enduring Appeal

Modern Thanksgiving is a tapestry of traditions, blending history, family, food, and fun. Whether it’s the comforting aroma of turkey in the oven, the thrill of a football game, or the spectacle of the Macy’s Parade, the holiday offers something for everyone.

At its heart, Thanksgiving is about connection, whether around the table, on the field, or through acts of generosity. And while it’s unmistakably American, its themes resonate far beyond the US.