What Is Thanksgiving?
Thanksgiving is a national holiday celebrated each year in the United States on the fourth Thursday of November. It’s a time when families and friends come together to share a special meal and express gratitude for all the good things that happened over the past year.
History of the Holiday
The tradition began hundreds of years ago when the Pilgrims celebrated their first successful harvest with help from the Native Americans. They shared food, stories, and friendship. In 1863, President Abraham Lincoln officially declared Thanksgiving a national holiday.
Thanksgiving Traditions
Today, Thanksgiving is still celebrated with a big meal. The centerpiece is usually a roast turkey, often served with mashed potatoes, stuffing, cranberry sauce, green beans, and other traditional side dishes. No Thanksgiving dinner is complete without a slice of pumpkin pie!
In different parts of the U.S., families prepare their own regional dishes. These traditions continue to spread as people travel and mix cultures.
Festive Activities
Kids often take part in school plays that tell the story of the first Thanksgiving. They also enjoy making crafts that celebrate friendship and gratitude. Families decorate their homes with autumn colors and symbols like pumpkins, corn, and leaves.
Many people spend the long weekend traveling to visit loved ones. Thanksgiving is one of the busiest travel times in America.
It’s also a time for fun: families play outdoor games like football, or watch matches on TV. Most importantly, Thanksgiving is about spending quality time together.
Comprehension Questions
- On which day of November is Thanksgiving celebrated?
- Why do families and friends gather on this day?
- Who helped the first Pilgrims grow food?
- Which U.S. president made Thanksgiving a national holiday?
- What do children do to celebrate Thanksgiving?
- What are some traditional foods eaten during the meal?
- Why is Thanksgiving weekend a busy time for travel?
- What games or sports are associated with Thanksgiving?
- Which dessert is a Thanksgiving favorite?