Thanksgiving Day, or Thanksgiving, is one of the oldest and most symbolic traditions in the United States, also celebrated in other countries of Anglo-Saxon origin.
Every year, on the fourth Thursday of November, American families gather to give thanks for the year’s achievements and blessings. Dinner is the centerpiece of the celebration, with roast turkey as the main dish.
The date also marks the beginning of the holiday season in the USA. The Macy’s parade in New York is a holiday classic, bringing together thousands of people on the streets and millions of spectators on TV. The event is considered an anticipation of Christmas, with Santa Claus appearing at the end of the parade.
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The following day, Black Friday brings commerce to life with huge discounts and promotions.
In Brazil, the holiday never gained popularity, but it is celebrated by Protestant churches and some communities. The date was officially recognized in 1949, during the government of Eurico Gaspar Dutra, following a suggestion by diplomat Joaquim Nabuco. In cities like São José dos Campos (SP), several churches maintain the tradition with community services and meals.
Origin of the holiday
Thanksgiving begins around 1620, when English Pilgrims who had settled in Massachusetts celebrated the first successful harvest after a devastating winter that killed part of the community.
With the help of the indigenous Wampanoag people, who taught planting and fishing techniques, the settlers organized a feast in gratitude.
About 90 indigenous people participated in the celebration, led by Massasoit, chief of the Wampanoag. The menu included corn, deer, wild turkey, cranberries and pumpkins, ingredients that remain present on Thanksgiving tables to this day.
