What is the American Thanksgiving holiday?
On Thursday, November 26, 2026, Americans will celebrate Thanksgiving, a holiday unknown in Europe. What is it about? Here's what you need to know about Thanksgiving.
When is Thanksgiving?
- Thanksgiving falls on a different date each year: the fourth Thursday of November.
- In 2026, Thanksgiving is on Thursday, November 26. In 2027, it falls on Thursday, November 25.
Where does Thanksgiving come from?
- Thanksgiving traces back to 1620, when British colonists arrived in Massachusetts aboard the Mayflower. These settlers founded Plymouth, but conditions were harsh. Food was scarce, disease spread, and families suffered heavy losses. A neighboring Native American tribe, the Wampanoag, came to their aid, bringing food and teaching them the basics of farming, fishing, and hunting.
- The following autumn, the colonists harvested their first crop and Plymouth was saved. The governor declared three days of thanksgiving to God. The Wampanoag were invited to share a meal featuring turkey as the main dish—an animal the colonists had never seen before.
- This first celebration was repeated in the years that followed and eventually became part of American tradition. Thanksgiving was officially established as a national holiday on October 3, 1789, by the first President of the United States, George Washington.
How do Americans celebrate Thanksgiving?
- In memory of that first shared meal, American families gather around the dinner table. People greet each other with “Happy Thanksgiving.” Turkey takes center stage as the main course. For dessert, pecan pie is a must, along with pumpkin pie.
- Thanksgiving is one of the most important family holidays in the United States, and the Thanksgiving weekend is the busiest time on American roads. The American Automobile Association estimates that over 54 million Americans drive more than 80 km (50 mi) from home during Thanksgiving weekend.
Thanksgiving in New York
- Thanksgiving takes on special significance in New York. Since 1924, Thanksgiving has been marked by a spectacular parade of giant character balloons through Manhattan. These balloons depict cartoon and movie characters, delighting children everywhere.
- For more details, read my article on the Thanksgiving parade in New York. If you’re in the city, it’s an event not to miss.
- Thanksgiving is surrounded by major sales, especially during the Black Friday weekend. Great deals are to be found.
