Celebrating Thanksgiving: History, Traditions, and Fun Family Activities

November 13, 2024

Thanksgiving is a holiday rich in history, gratitude, and time spent with loved ones. Observed on the fourth Thursday of November, it has evolved into a celebration of family, reflection, and delicious food. But beyond the turkey and pie, Thanksgiving is also a time to create lasting memories with family and friends. Let’s take a look at the history of Thanksgiving, some of the cherished customs, and some fun crafts and activities to make your celebration even more special.

A Brief History of Thanksgiving

The origins of Thanksgiving date back to 1621, when the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag Native Americans shared a harvest feast. After a difficult first winter, the Pilgrims learned from the Wampanoag how to plant corn, fish, and thrive in the New World. This event is often considered the first Thanksgiving, though it was not a formal holiday.

Thanksgiving became an official national holiday in 1863, thanks to President Abraham Lincoln, who proclaimed a day of “Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the Heavens” during the Civil War. Since then, the holiday has grown to be a time of family gatherings, feasting, and reflection.

Traditional Thanksgiving Customs

Many Thanksgiving traditions have stood the test of time. Here are some key elements that shape the day:

  1. The Thanksgiving Meal: For many, Thanksgiving is synonymous with a big meal that includes turkey, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, stuffing, and pumpkin pie. While the menu can vary, turkey is almost always the centerpiece of the meal.
  2. Giving Thanks: A significant tradition is for each family member to share something they’re grateful for before the meal. This simple act brings the true spirit of Thanksgiving into focus.
  3. Parades and Football: Thanksgiving parades, like the famous Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York, are a much-loved part of the holiday. Football is also a big part of the day for many, with games broadcast across the country.
  4. Volunteerism: Many people choose to volunteer at shelters or donate to food banks, embodying the spirit of giving and gratitude.
  5. Family Time: Above all, Thanksgiving is a time to reconnect with loved ones. Whether it’s through games, storytelling, or simply enjoying each other’s company, it’s a day to appreciate the bonds we share.

Fun Family Crafts and Activities for Thanksgiving

While Thanksgiving can certainly be about food and reflection, it’s also a perfect time to get creative with family crafts and activities. Here are some easy, fun, and meaningful ideas that will add an extra layer of joy to your holiday.

1. Gratitude Tree

  • Supplies: Twigs, a small pot or jar, colorful paper, markers, scissors, string.
  • Instructions: Place the twigs in the pot to create a “tree.” Cut out leaf shapes from the paper, and have each family member write something they’re grateful for on a leaf. Hang the leaves on the tree with string. Display the Gratitude Tree as a beautiful reminder of your blessings!

2. Thanksgiving Handprint Turkey Cards

  • Supplies: Construction paper, markers, googly eyes, glue, scissors.
  • Instructions: Trace each family member’s hand on construction paper and cut it out. Decorate the thumb as the turkey’s head, adding eyes, a beak, and feathers to each finger. Write a message on the card and share with someone you’re thankful for.

3. DIY Thanksgiving Table Centerpieces

  • Supplies: Mini pumpkins, pinecones, candles, leaves, and other autumnal items.
  • Instructions: Create a festive centerpiece by arranging mini pumpkins, pinecones, and candles in the center of your table. You can add leaves or decorative gourds for extra flair. Kids will love helping design the centerpiece, which brings a cozy fall vibe to your table.

4. Pumpkin Bowling

  • Supplies: Mini pumpkins, empty cans or plastic bottles.
  • Instructions: Set up “pins” by stacking cans or bottles at one end of the room or yard. Use a mini pumpkin as a “bowling ball” and take turns trying to knock down the pins. It’s a fun and active way to get everyone moving before or after the meal.

5. Thanksgiving Bingo

  • Supplies: Bingo cards with Thanksgiving-themed images, markers or stickers.
  • Instructions: Create or print out Bingo cards with pictures of turkeys, pumpkins, pie, footballs, etc. Give everyone a card and markers. As you call out images, players can mark their cards. The first to get five in a row wins a small prize!

Reflecting on Gratitude

Thanksgiving is more than a feast; it’s a time to pause and reflect on the good in our lives. In the hustle and bustle of preparing and celebrating, take a moment to simply be with loved ones, to laugh, and to express gratitude. Starting or continuing meaningful traditions – whether it’s cooking together, making a Gratitude Tree, or playing Thanksgiving Bingo – will make your holiday even more special.

May this Thanksgiving bring joy, connection, and warmth to you and your family!

Smiling family eating Thanksgiving dinner