While many people know about the classic turkey meal and family get-togethers, there are many interesting parts of this holiday that often get overlooked. Here are five facts you may not know about Thanksgiving.
1. Celebrating Thanksgiving Virtually
Thanksgiving-themed online games have become a popular way to celebrate the holiday, especially for those who may be apart from family and friends. These games range from interactive trivia quizzes that test knowledge of Thanksgiving history to fun activities like virtual scavenger hunts, where participants search for holiday-related items in their homes.
Platforms such as SambaSlots offer a variety of options. Additionally, classic games like Pictionary and Charades can easily be adapted with Thanksgiving-themed prompts, fostering laughter and engagement among players. Overall, these online games provide an enjoyable way to connect and celebrate the spirit of Thanksgiving virtually.
2. The First Thanksgiving Was Not What You Think
Many people think the 1621 meal shared by the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag was the first Thanksgiving, but earlier celebrations happened in North America. Spanish explorers held Thanksgiving events in Florida as early as 1565, and Virginia settlers at Berkeley Hundred celebrated a day of thanks in 1619. These early gatherings focused on being thankful for survival and community, not just for a harvest feast.
Thanksgiving became a national holiday in 1863 when President Abraham Lincoln declared it during the Civil War. This was largely due to Sarah Josepha Hale, who worked hard to create a regular holiday. In 1939, President Franklin D. Roosevelt moved Thanksgiving to the third Thursday in November to give shoppers more time before Christmas. However, this change faced strong opposition and was changed back in 1941.
3. The Activities of the First Thanksgiving
The first Thanksgiving in 1621 was a vibrant three-day event. Approximately 90 Wampanoag and 52 English settlers participated in this harvest celebration. Women engaged in traditional crafts like weaving, while music played an important role with drumming creating a lively atmosphere.
Wrestling matches and ball games provided entertainment for all ages, including children who learned through play. This gathering was not just a feast; it was a complex social interaction that allowed different cultural groups to connect and share experiences, representing a momentary period of cooperation and mutual understanding between the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag.
4. The Traditional Meal Has Evolved
Turkey is now a key part of Thanksgiving dinner, but it wasn’t always the main dish. The first Thanksgiving meal probably had venison, birds (which might have included wild turkey), corn, and other local foods.
As time passed and cooking habits changed, turkey became the most popular choice. Today, many families also serve side dishes like stuffing, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie, making a varied meal that shows different regional flavors and family customs.
5. Football and Parades Are Part of the Tradition
Thanksgiving is closely linked to sports, mainly to football games and parades that are now essential parts of the holiday. The NFL has held games on Thanksgiving since 1934, and millions of fans watch their favorite teams play.
Also, parades like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade have become famous events featuring colorful floats and performances. The first Macy’s parade happened in 1924 and has grown into a lively celebration that signals the start of the holiday season for many people.
