Every Thanksgiving, families have traditions that are special to them. From watching the Macy’s Parade to eating special food, it’s something people look forward to every year.
Before 1863, Thanksgiving was not a national holiday. According to mentalfloss.com, William Bradford wrote about how the colonists hunted turkeys in the autumn. Since the turkey is a uniquely American bird, it caught on as the Thanksgiving meal of choice after Lincoln declared it as a national holiday in 1863.
Many families also love to watch the classic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade.
Over 50 million people nationwide watch this televised event, which began in 1924.
”My family watches the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade while making turkey. This makes it very special to me because it's a tradition and we always think the balloons are cool,” said sophomore Sarah Stachowski.
Some families might not go the traditional route.
”My family goes to St. Matt’s church in Mishawaka and we serve thanksgiving [food] to homeless people that come in for lunch or dinner. Then we go home and watch a movie and order pizza,” said 11th grader Allison P.
Some students just enjoy spending time with their family on Thanksgiving.
“So, for our Thanksgiving, the whole family comes to our house. Our house is an old farmstead therefore it’s beautiful all decorated with fall things and cornucopias.” said senior Joel Kelley.
They even have a huge variety of favorite foods.
“We pack the house with ham and turkey, potatoes, corn casserole, rolls, sweet potato pie, pumpkin pie, minced meat pie, apple pie, cherry pie, baclava, pretzel salad, and other delicacies.” said Kelley.
Some families continue their festivities even after Thanksgiving.
“[On] Black Friday, as some shop, others of us watch the Rose Bowl Parade. Sunday, we all go to the Christmas in New Carlisle Parade. Before and afterwards, we set up our Christmas trees and festive decorations,” explained Kelley.
Whether you have special traditions for your family, or just like to enjoy the holiday, Thanksgiving is great for many families.