What is Thanksgiving? When is it in 2023?

Thanksgiving is a major holiday celebrated in many Western countries. But what is Thanksgiving? What is the significance of eating turkey on this day, and where did the tradition originate? Join us as we explore these questions and more in this article!

1What is Thanksgiving?

When is Thanksgiving 2023?

Thanksgiving, also known as Thanksgiving Day, is an important holiday in countries such as the United States, Canada, some islands in Liberia and the Caribbean, and is celebrated annually during the harvest season.

See also: What is ? Is it compulsory to attend?

Thanksgiving Day

Additionally, according to laws in the United States and Canada, it is also an official holiday for all workers in these two countries. However, Canada celebrates Thanksgiving much earlier than other nations, usually on the second Monday of October.

In 2023, Thanksgiving will be held on Thursday, November 23, 2023.

The following table compares the dates of Thanksgiving in the United States and Canada from 2015 to 2030:

The Origin of Thanksgiving

Around the 16th and 17th centuries, some people in England who belonged to the Catholic Church and were Puritans were imprisoned for refusing to convert to the emperor’s religion. They eventually left England and migrated to Holland, but as they could not assimilate into Dutch culture, they continued on to North America aboard the Mayflower.

The Pilgrims migrating to America on the Mayflower

These people later came to be known as the Pilgrims. When they arrived in Plymouth, New England, in the winter, half of them had perished due to the harsh weather. Fortunately, in the spring, they encountered some kind-hearted Native Americans who provided them with food and taught them how to hunt and farm in the region.

Once they were able to sustain themselves, the Pilgrims held a feast to give thanks to God for His protection during their difficult times, and they also invited the Native Americans to join them. From then on, the descendants of the Pilgrims continued the tradition of holding a Thanksgiving feast each year to express gratitude for the blessings in their lives.

The Significance of Thanksgiving

Initially, the Thanksgiving feast was held to give thanks to God for providing a peaceful and prosperous life. By the mid-19th century, as civil tensions escalated in the United States, Thanksgiving became a means of fostering unity and solidarity among citizens.

Thanksgiving is considered a day for family reunion

Nowadays, Thanksgiving is seen as a day for family members to reunite and spend time together after a year of hard work and study. During the Thanksgiving dinner, family members join hands around the table, close their eyes, and silently give thanks to God for the blessings of the past year, while also praying for peace and good fortune in the year ahead.

See also: Must-know facts about Thanksgiving

2What is Served on Thanksgiving?

Roast Turkey

Roast turkey, a popular dish on Thanksgiving

As one of the symbols of Thanksgiving, roast turkey is incredibly easy to prepare. After cleaning and dressing the turkey, it is stuffed with , , , ,… and then brushed with or before being roasted whole, resulting in a beautifully golden and mouthwatering dish.

Roasted Vegetables

Roasted vegetables, a common dish on Thanksgiving

Although roasted vegetables may seem simple, they add color and nutritional balance to the Thanksgiving table. To ensure the best flavor, choose vegetables of appropriate sizes, season them wisely, and roast until slightly charred.

Baked Green Beans

Baked green beans, a popular dish on Thanksgiving in the US

Another humble yet popular dish on American Thanksgiving tables, green beans are cleaned and baked with , , or ,… This dish not only adds nutritional value but also enhances the flavors of the other dishes.

Stuffing

Stuffing, a popular dish on Thanksgiving

Stuffing is just as popular on Thanksgiving as roast turkey. To prepare this dish, simply chop and mix , vegetables, , smoked meat,… layer them, cover with and bake—a unique and delicious dish that’s sure to impress!

Pumpkin Pie

Pumpkin pie, a traditional dessert on Thanksgiving

Pumpkin pie is a traditional dessert on Thanksgiving, made with pureed and baked with , , , —a unique flavor of autumn that is sweet, nutty, and utterly unforgettable.

Beef and Potato Pie

Beef and potato pie, a popular dish on Thanksgiving in Canada

Also known as La tourtiere, this savory pie is a traditional Thanksgiving dish in Canada, usually made with a crispy potato crust and a filling of or minced beef, resulting in a unique and captivating flavor.

Mashed Potatoes

Mashed potatoes, a common dish on Thanksgiving

is another staple on Thanksgiving tables. After mashing the potatoes, they are mixed with , , cheese, ,… creating a delicious and nutritious dish that is also perfect for babies and toddlers.

See also: 9 dishes for your Thanksgiving menu

3Thanksgiving Around the World

Thanksgiving in the US and Canada

As the country where Thanksgiving originated, the United States typically hosts grand celebrations for this holiday. According to US law, workers are entitled to up to four days off, starting on the fourth Thursday of November, to engage in meaningful activities. In Canada, workers get a three-day weekend starting on the second Monday of October to give thanks to God for a bountiful harvest.

This holiday is a time for family members to gather and share a warm meal. The table is usually adorned with turkey and other traditional dishes such as potatoes, bread, pumpkin pie, and cranberry sauce.

Thanksgiving in the US and Canada

Thanksgiving in Vietnam

Although not as widely celebrated in Vietnam, Thanksgiving is still known and observed by many, serving as an opportunity for families to come together and spend quality time.

For Christians, it is customary to attend church services on this day to express their devotion to God and pray for blessings.

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