What Thanksgiving means ?

1. A National Holiday for Giving Thanks

Thanksgiving is a major U.S. holiday celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November every year.

The main purpose is to give thanks for:

• Family

• Friends

• Health

• Opportunities

• The blessings of the past year

It’s all about gratitude.

2. Origin Story

The tradition is based loosely on a 1621 harvest feast shared by:

• Pilgrims (European settlers)

• Wampanoag Native Americans

They celebrated the first successful harvest together.

Modern historians note it’s a mix of history and tradition — but today the focus is on gratitude and family.

3. What People Do on Thanksgiving

Most Americans:

• Gather with family and friends

• Cook a big meal (turkey, mashed potatoes, pumpkin pie, etc.)

• Watch football games

• Watch the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade

• Start holiday shopping (Black Friday the next day)

4. Symbol of Family & Togetherness

For many people, it’s the biggest family holiday of the year — even bigger than Christmas for some.

People travel across the country to reunite with loved ones.

5. A Day Off Nationwide

Schools, banks, government offices, and most workplaces are closed.

It’s one of the most important national holidays in America.