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Top Ten Thanksgiving Traditions
It’s the most beautiful time of the year in the US – a time for food, family, friends, and gratitude. Originating as a harvest festival, Thanksgiving is one of the biggest holidays in the US. People across the country gather to share a meal and reflect on everything they’re grateful for. But there’s much more to do during this beautiful time of giving thanks than just eating. From parades to shopping or volunteering – Thanksgiving is celebrated in various ways. I’ve put together a bucket list for the ultimate US Thanksgiving celebration.
Watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade
The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is now one of the most famous holiday traditions in the United States. In New York City, thousands of people line the streets of Manhattan to watch. This parade is known for its giant inflatable balloons floating between the skyscrapers, high above the onlookers.
Break the wishbone for good luck
It may sound silly, but this is a real thing! After carving the turkey, the wishbone, a Y-shaped bone that carries much superstition, gets set aside to dry. Once the meal is over, two people make their wishes and break the wishbone. Whoever ends up with the bigger piece is said to have their wish come true and good luck for the upcoming year.
Eat a traditional Thanksgiving meal
Thanksgiving Day is only complete with the traditional meal. Must-eats are roast turkey, cranberry sauce, stuffing, mashed potatoes and gravy, sweet potatoes and Brussels sprouts. Green bean casserole has become a popular dish, especially in the Midwest. Completing the meal is, of course, pumpkin pie for dessert. After all of that, it’s time for the next tradition. . .
Take a nap
After an afternoon filled with cooking and eating delicious food, many retreat to the couch for a mid-day nap. Turkey is well known as the culprit of this sudden onset of sleepiness, with its high amino acid tryptophan levels. While tryptophan is known to help release chemicals like melatonin (which makes you drowsy), it’s not entirely the turkey’s fault. Eating other sugar-rich foods (like pie) also increases your tiredness. But with all the business of the holiday, everyone deserves some rest!
Share what you’re most thankful for
Thanksgiving is a perfect time to reflect on the year alongside family and friends. Whether during the meal or while relaxing later in the day, go around the room and share something you’re incredibly grateful for. Hearing everyone talk about their favorite moments and experiences from the previous year is beautiful.
Watch an American football game
Football is the most popular sport in the US, and the idea of games played on Thanksgiving Day dates back as early as 1876, shortly after the game was invented. Families and friends gather to watch their favorite teams compete in one of America’s favorite sports. Or, to burn off some of those Thanksgiving calories, some families split into teams and play a game of football themselves.
Be grateful for Friendsgiving
Because most people celebrate Thanksgiving with their families, dedicating time to give thanks to friends has become equally important. Friends gathering together, aptly called “Friendsgiving,” is a newer tradition. It’s a time to share a meal and enjoy each other’s company before traveling home to join family.
Run a turkey trot
It may seem counterintuitive (or genius) to run a race on America’s biggest food holiday, but turkey trots are a trend across the US on Thanksgiving Day. The name derives from the turkey, the typical centerpiece of Thanksgiving dinner. From 5K fun runs to half marathons, these races bring out runners, walkers, and fans in local communities. It’s a fun way to earn and burn the calories consumed during the Thanksgiving meal.
Shop ’til you drop on Black Friday
Stores nationwide have some of their most significant sales the day after Thanksgiving. Now known as Black Friday, this day is almost a holiday. While this shopping tradition has changed with the rise of e-commerce, people still stand in line for hours early in the morning to get great discounts and start their Christmas shopping.
Giving back
In the spirit of giving thanks and helping others, many communities across the US hold annual food drives that collect non-perishable packaged and canned foods for those in need. These organizations also host Thanksgiving dinners so that everyone has a place to enjoy a warm meal.
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