Thanksgiving 2021: What is Thanksgiving, when is thanksgiving, where is it celebrated and why?

Thanksgiving will be celebrated across North America this November, but what is the meaning of thanksgiving and why is it celebrated?
Watch more of our videos on Shots! 
and live on Freeview channel 276
Visit Shots! now

With the Holiday season upon us, in the UK we are starting to get ready for Christmas, but across the water in the USA they are getting ready to celebrate Thanksgiving.

This holiday is often depicted in our favourite films and TV shows, but what is it all about?

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Here’s everything you need to know about the American holiday of Thanksgiving, including some Thanksgiving Day greetings.

Turkey is traditionally eaten with Thanksgiving Dinner.Turkey is traditionally eaten with Thanksgiving Dinner.
Turkey is traditionally eaten with Thanksgiving Dinner.

What is Thanksgiving?

Thanksgiving is celebrated predominantly in North America and is the holiday of thanks and gratitude.

People come together with family and friends to give thanks for whatever the past year has brought them.

Key features of the holiday include a Thanksgiving Day dinner and watching the Thanksgiving Day parades.

Read More
Black Friday 2021: When is Black Friday? Date of Black Friday 2021 and how to ge...

When is Thanksgiving?

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

In the United States, Thanksgiving is always celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November, meaning this year it will fall on Thursday, November 25.

However, in Canada, Thanksgiving is celebrated much earlier on the second Monday of October.

Where is Thanksgiving celebrated?

Thanksgiving is celebrated in the United States and Canada.

However, it is well known across the globe, thanks to the popularity of American TV, films and culture.

Many Thanksgiving favourites such as pecan pie and pumpkin spice are now enjoyed around the world, and many people outside of North America are aware of the holiday and its traditions.

What is served at a traditional Thanksgiving dinner?​

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

A traditional Thanksgiving dinner is similar to a British Christmas Dinner in that it features turkey, stuffing and mashed potatoes with gravy.

But a Thanksgiving Day spread also includes sweet potatoes, cranberry sauce, sweetcorn, turnips and bread rolls for the main.

With pecan pie and pumpkin pie for the dessert.

How do you wish someone a Happy Thanksgiving?

If someone you know is celebrating Thanksgiving, you can let them know you are thinking of them with one of these phrases.

Here are a few ways you can wish someone a happy Thanksgiving.

Happy Thanksgiving!

Happy Thanksgiving Day!

Have a blessed Thanksgiving!

Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family.

Related topics: