Giving Thanks for Thanksgiving Traditions
November 17, 2023
Thanksgiving is a time of year when we gather with loved ones and reflect on all the things we’re thankful for. This special day is steeped in tradition, from the turkey dinner to the football games and everything in between. For many of us, Thanksgiving is a sentimental holiday that brings up memories of family gatherings, delicious food, and heartwarming moments. As the holiday approaches, let’s take a closer look at some of the traditions that make Thanksgiving so special.
One of the most iconic traditions of Thanksgiving is the big feast. Families come together to cook a delicious meal with all the fixings, featuring the all-important turkey as the centerpiece. Many families have their own special recipes and rituals when it comes to cooking the perfect turkey, from brining to basting to deep-frying. And of course, there are always plenty of sides and desserts to go around, like stuffing, mashed potatoes, pumpkin pie, and more.
Another Thanksgiving tradition is the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade, which has been a staple of the holiday since 1924. Each year, giant balloons, floats, and performers take to the streets of New York City to entertain millions of viewers both in person and on TV. The parade also marks the official start of the holiday shopping season, with Santa Claus bringing up the rear as a sign that it’s time to start thinking about Christmas.
Many families also have their own traditions when it comes to Thanksgiving weekend activities. Some people like to watch football games, either at home or in person if they’re lucky enough to score tickets. Others prefer to hit the stores for Black Friday sales, or to watch classic holiday movies like “It’s a Wonderful Life” or “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving.” Still, others like to spend time outdoors, maybe going for a hike or a bike ride to work off some of that Thanksgiving dinner.
Of course, Thanksgiving isn’t just about food and fun activities. It’s also a time to give thanks for all the blessings in our lives. Many families have their own traditions when it comes to expressing gratitude, such as going around the table and saying something they’re thankful for, or writing down what they’re grateful for on slips of paper and putting them in a jar to read later on. Taking the time to acknowledge our blessings can bring a sense of peace and contentment to the holiday season.
As you prepare for Thanksgiving this year, remember all the traditions that make this holiday so special. Whether you’re cooking up a feast or watching the parade, spending time with loved ones or reflecting on your blessings, these traditions help us connect to the past and create new memories for the future. And if you need a little extra storage space to accommodate all your holiday decor, dishes, or furniture, consider renting a self storage unit to keep everything safe and secure until you need it again next year. Happy Thanksgiving!