Thanksgiving, celebrated annually on the fourth Thursday of November, will occur on November 28, 2024. This major U.S. holiday involves family gatherings, festive meals, and an expression of gratitude. It holds deep historical and cultural significance, rooted in both Native American history and the English settlers’ experiences.

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• Thanksgiving 2024 will be celebrated on November 28, marking the fourth Thursday of November.
• The holiday originated in 1621 with a feast between the Wampanoag tribe and English settlers.
• In 1789, George Washington declared the first official Thanksgiving Day in the U.S.
• In 1863, Abraham Lincoln declared Thanksgiving a national holiday to promote unity after the Civil War.
• The holiday is now centered on family meals, featuring turkey, pumpkin pie, stuffing, and cranberry sauce.
• The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is a popular tradition, showcasing floats, music, and performances.
• President Biden continued the tradition of pardoning turkeys at the White House in 2024Thanksgiving has a painful history for Native Americans due to the impact of European colonization and subsequent conflicts.
• Many Native Americans view Thanksgiving as a reminder of the oppression and violence faced by their ancestors.
• Modern observances include donating to those in need and spending time with family and friends.