Even if you don’t live in the US, you know the essential facts about Thanksgiving. Movies, TV shows, and pop culture in general made sure people all over the world knew about this day. And though it is mostly known as an American holiday, there are many cultures that have a similar celebration.
While in the US, the history of Thanksgiving is closely related to the first settlers, in many other countries, it is the native population who celebrate the harvest season and offer their gratitude for having grown enough food for a year. The first American Thanksgiving celebration recorded in history is traced back to the early 1620s, though there is quite a bit of debate around the exact date, as there were two types of thanksgiving practices: a religious ceremony and a festive celebration, which, though having similar elements, were still pretty different.
Whenever it may have occurred for the first time, Thanksgiving is definitely one of America’s most beloved holidays. And what is a Thanksgiving celebration without a traditional dinner with turkey! Did you know that the average turkey weight for an adult male turkey can reach up to 24 pounds (11 kilograms)? And that’s only one of the traditional dishes you will be offered at the table.
Whether you are going to celebrate Thanksgiving with family and loved ones or just want to know more about the holiday, we have collected interesting facts about Thanksgiving that you can share with others during the dinner. Make sure you let us know in the comments which one caused the biggest discussion, and have a happy Thanksgiving!
#21
Every year, the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade is watched by about 50 million people.
Report
9points
#22
On Thanksgiving, 60% of Americans would prefer to do anything but reflect on their thankfulness.
9points
#24
Snoopy has made the most appearances in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.
Report
9points
#25
Pumpkin pie has been beloved for a long time — although, apple pies are still America's favorite.
Report
9points
#28
Every Thanksgiving, Americans consume 736 million pounds of turkey.
Report
8points
#29
Thanksgiving is celebrated entirely differently in Canada. Canadians celebrate Thanksgiving on the second Monday of October. It started in 1859 when Protestant leaders called on the colonial government to create a day for giving thanks.
Report
8points
#30
Before 1997, there were no restrictions on the size of balloons used in the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.
Report
8points
#31
It's not the turkey's fault that you feel awful after dinner.
Report
8points
#32
The National Football League did not exist when the first Thanksgiving "football" game was played.
Report
8points
#35
The most popular holiday in America is Thanksgiving.
Report
8points
#37
The only night when Americans consume significantly more alcohol is the night before Thanksgiving, which is called 'Drinksgiving'.
Report
8points
#40
Originally, Thanksgiving may not have been celebrated in November at all.
Report
8points