Friday, March 28, 2025
The origins of Thanksgiving date back to 1621, when the Pilgrims and Wampanoag Native Americans shared a three-day feast in Plymouth, Massachusetts, to celebrate the Pilgrims’ first successful harvest.
After enduring a harsh winter marked by food shortages and disease, the Pilgrims experienced a successful harvest, largely thanks to the guidance of the Wampanoag, particularly Squanto, who taught them agricultural techniques Although the holiday’s historical context has been debated, its modern significance centers on expressing gratitude and spending quality time with loved ones. However, it was not initially an annual tradition.
Thanksgiving as we know it evolved over time. In colonial America, days of thanksgiving were declared sporadically to mark events such as military victories or bountiful harvests. By the late 18th century, certain states, particularly in New England, began observing annual Thanksgiving holidays. It was President George Washington who, in 1789, issued the first national Thanksgiving proclamation, encouraging Americans to express gratitude for the establishment of the Constitution.
The holiday became a permanent fixture in the national calendar during the Civil War. In 1863, President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed the last Thursday of November as a day of national thanksgiving, partly influenced by the tireless lobbying of Sarah Josepha Hale, a writer and editor. This date was solidified as a federal holiday in 1941.
Thanksgiving traditions vary across households but often feature a grand feast. The centerpiece of the meal is typically a roasted turkey, accompanied by stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and an array of vegetables. Desserts such as pumpkin pie, pecan pie, and apple pie are also staples of the celebration. Some families infuse their heritage into the menu, adding dishes that reflect their cultural roots.
According to notable recipe website delish.com, green bean casserole is the most uniquely searched Thanksgiving side dish in the state of New York In terms of baked goods, delish.com reported that cornbread is the most uniquely searched in New York.
Malverne’s Mayor Tim Sullivan, claims to be a big dessert guy himself. “My favorite dishes to see on this holiday are apple pie and ice cream. I also enjoy leftover turkey, stuffing and gravy on a sandwich.”
His friend Megan O’Rourke Schutta shared a similar sentiment. “Stuffing is my favorite dish. Who doesn’t like stuffing?” she said.
Beyond the food, Thanksgiving is marked by various activities. Watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, a beloved tradition since 1924, kicks off the holiday for many. The parade features floats, giant character balloons, and performances, attracting millions of viewers each year. Football games are another staple, with both professional and collegiate teams taking the field for special Thanksgiving matchups.
Thanksgiving is also a time for giving back. Many communities organize food drives, volunteer opportunities, and charity events to support those in need, emphasizing the holiday’s spirit of generosity.
As families gather around the table, they often share what they are thankful for, reinforcing the holiday’s core message of gratitude. Whether it’s appreciation for health, family, or life’s small joys, Thanksgiving encourages reflection on the positives amid life’s challenges.
In an era of busy schedules and digital distractions, Thanksgiving remains a meaningful opportunity to connect, express gratitude, and embrace the joy of togetherness. As families across the nation celebrate this year, the holiday reminds everyone of the importance of appreciation and community.
