Thanksgiving is widely celebrated in the United States, and people of different cultural backgrounds participate in the holiday. While it originated as a harvest festival among the Pilgrims and Native Americans, it is now a national holiday observed by people of richly diverse backgrounds. There is no specific ethnic or religious group exclusive to Thanksgiving celebrations. People of all backgrounds, including White Americans, African Americans, Hispanic Americans, Asian Americans, Indigenous Americans, and others, often come together with family and friends to give thanks and enjoy a festive meal on Thanksgiving Day. The holiday is a time for expressing gratitude and celebrating community, and it is embraced by a broad spectrum of the American population.
Food:
Cultural groups celebrate Thanksgiving with diverse culinary traditions. For example, in Hispanic communities, you might find a fusion of traditional Thanksgiving dishes with Latin flavors, like turkey seasoned with adobo or stuffing with chorizo. Explore more on this at Hispanic Kitchen.
Festivals:
Various cultural groups infuse their unique festivities into Thanksgiving celebrations. Indigenous American communities may incorporate traditional dances and ceremonies, emphasizing gratitude for the harvest. Explore Indigenous American Thanksgiving events at Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian.
Values:
Thanksgiving values can vary among cultural groups. Some Asian communities may prioritize familial harmony and express gratitude through collective acts of kindness. Explore these values further at Asia Society.
But is there a wrong/right way to celebrate? Celebrating Thanksgiving often involves a festive meal with family and friends. Many people gather around a table laden with traditional dishes like turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce. Some families have unique customs, like sharing what they’re thankful for before eating. Additionally, watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade or a football game is a common tradition for many. While some may attend community events or volunteer at local charities, others might take the opportunity to reflect on gratitude in a more personal way. Whichever way that you celebrate Thanksgiving, have a happy one.
Explore the following websites for more detailed information and ideas on Thanksgiving celebrations.