THANKSGIVING

THANKSGIVING: WHAT IS IT? WHERE IS IT CELEBRATED?

• National Holiday in Canada and the USA• Commemorates:– the first harvest in the USA– the blessings we have received– family and friends

THANKSGIVING: WHEN IS IT?

• Canada: Second Monday in October• The USA: Fourth Thursday in November

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THE FIRST THANKSGIVING

• Many say it started in 1621, after a good harvest• Pilgrims and Native Americans gathered

together for three days

PRESENT-DAY THANKSGIVING

What do these pictures have in common? What is different about these pictures?

1940’s

1990’s

THANKSGIVING TRADITIONS: DINNER

• Turkey• Mashed Potatoes• Vegetables• Cranberries• Stuffing• Cornbread/Rolls• Gravy• Pumpkin Pie• Fruit Pie

THANKSGIVING TRADITIONS: GIVING THANKS

Some families like to go around and say aloud what they are thankful for before, during, or after the Thanksgiving meal

THANKSGIVING TRADITIONS: WISHBONE

Whoever gets the longer piece will have their wish granted!

THANKSGIVING TRADITIONS: MACY’S DAY PARADE

THANKSGIVING TRADITIONS: CANNED FOOD DRIVES & CHARITY RUNS

Many organizations, schools, churches, and businesses use Thanksgiving as a way to remind people that we should share with those less fortunate.

THANKSGIVING TRADITIONS: FIRST THANKSGIVING PLAYS/COSTUMES

Many elementary/primary schools put on plays about the first Thanksgiving.

THANKSGIVING TRADITIONS: FOOTBALL GAMES

After our massive meal, we like to sit around digesting and watching football, whether on TV or at the stadium!

THANKSGIVING TRADITIONS: PARDONING THE TURKEY

The President normally pardons a turkey on Thanksgiving so it won’t be served as food on Thanksgiving.

THANKSGIVING TRADITIONS: TRAVELLING

Because Thanksgiving is celebrated with families, many people travel on Wednesday to be home in time. This is the busiest day of the year for travelling. Often, there are delays due to snow or wind which makes things worse!

THANKSGIVING TRADITIONS: BLACK FRIDAY

The day after Thanksgiving, when many people have the day off, is filled with big sales to kick off the Christmas season.

THANKSGIVING TRADITIONS: MY FAMILY TRADITION

In my family, it is a tradition for my sister and I to help make the butter that will be used for our Thanksgiving meal. It takes a long time and our arms get very tired!

Happy Thanksgiving!