Thanksgiving Day 2025 falls on 27 November, and for millions across the globe—particularly in the United States—it marks one of the most important cultural holidays of the year. While many people outside North America recognise the term from films and television, the deeper meaning, origins and traditions of Thanksgiving aren’t always widely understood. At its heart, the day is about pausing to give thanks, celebrating the blessings of the past year, and coming together with loved ones. But its roots and customs run much deeper.
Why Thanksgiving is celebrated: A look at its origins
Thanksgiving traces its origins back to the early 17th century, when English settlers in Plymouth held a harvest feast to express gratitude for a successful yield after a harsh winter. Over time, this gathering evolved into a national holiday in the United States, reflecting themes of unity, survival, and appreciation. Although the historical narrative has been debated and re-examined in recent years—particularly with regard to the experiences of Native Americans—the modern meaning of Thanksgiving remains centred on gratitude and community spirit.
Where Thanksgiving is celebrated the most
The United States is the primary home of Thanksgiving celebrations, where it is considered one of the biggest annual events, comparable to Christmas. Canada also observes Thanksgiving, but on the second Monday of October. Smaller pockets of celebrations are seen in Liberia, parts of the Caribbean and among American expat communities worldwide, but the holiday’s cultural significance is strongest in North America.
Traditions that define the Thanksgiving culture
Thanksgiving is heavily associated with family gatherings. Many people travel long distances—making it one of the busiest travel periods of the year—to spend the day with their families. The celebrations typically revolve around a large meal and the ritual of sharing what each person is thankful for.
Parades and community gatherings are also an important part of the holiday. The most famous of them is the annual Thanksgiving parade in New York City, which draws nationwide attention with its grand floats, balloons and performances. Watching American football matches has also become a staple tradition for many households.
Food that makes Thanksgiving special
The Thanksgiving meal is one of the most recognisable parts of the holiday. A traditional table usually features roast turkey, cranberry sauce, mashed potatoes, pumpkin pie, sweet potatoes, stuffing and various autumn vegetables. While recipes differ across regions and families, the idea of a hearty, comforting feast remains at the core of the celebration.
Why Thanksgiving still matters today
Thanksgiving continues to hold emotional significance, offering people a moment to reconnect with loved ones and reflect on the year gone by. Despite evolving traditions and modern interpretations, the holiday’s essence—gratitude, togetherness and sharing—remains as relevant today as it was centuries ago.
