Thanksgiving Traditions

Although Thanksgiving is an American Holiday and tradition that most of the country celebrates with a big turkey dinner, there are some regional traditions that are unique to different parts of the United States. Thanksgiving originated with the pilgrims landing on Plymouth Rock and receiving turkey and other food from the Wampanoag Native Americans. Some of the foods still served on Thanksgiving originated from the Pilgrim’s first Thanksgiving in 1621. Foods popular in certain regions of the US have also made their way into traditional Thanksgiving dishes. In the south, cornbread is often used to make dressing, which is served on the side. In other parts of the country, white bread is used for stuffing and as the name implies, is stuffed into the turkey. Lobster and lobster stew is commonly served alongside turkey in New England. Pumpkin pie is a national tradition but pecan pie is a popular Thanksgiving dessert in the south and apple pies tend to be more common in the northern part of the country.
Every year since 1947, the White House has made a tradition of granting a presidential pardon to one of three turkeys donated by the National Turkey Federation. The tradition of making a wish on the wishbone dates back to the Etruscans. The English colonists brought this superstition with them to the “New World”. As the belief goes, two people make a wish as they’re playing tug of war with the bone, whoever breaks off the bigger piece gets their wish to come true. The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day parade and watching football are also big traditions in the US. Staying up all night and camping out for Black Friday to score early bird deals on Holiday gifts has also become customary for some families.