Thanksgiving: 7 Things To Know About This American Holiday
Each year, on the fourth Thursday of November, Americans gather together as a family to celebrate Thanksgiving. Little honored in Luxembourg, this holiday is still one of the most important in the United States. Want to be unbeatable on the subject? Here are 7 things to know about Thanksgiving!
Thanksgiving
In French, "Thanksgiving" means "thanksgiving" . Today secular, this holiday was originally religious. It was President Abraham Lincoln who, in 1863, proclaimed Thanksgiving as a national holiday.
A family party
This year, Thanksgiving is celebrated on November 23rd. An opportunity for all families to meet, even if they are scattered throughout the US: it is estimated that more than 20 million people will take a flight to join their loved ones .
The night before, many bars and clubs organize special evenings for Thanksgiving.
Turkey on the menu ... But not only!
As tradition dictates, the meal consists of the famous turkey . In total, more than 45 million turkeys are consumed across the United States that day ... And the bigger it is, the better! Generally, it is accompanied by mashed sweet potatoes and corn bread, all copiously sprinkled with cranberries. The dessert is not lighter: pie for everyone, with pumpkin or pecans.
The presidential pardon
Since 1989, the American president graces a turkey in front of the television cameras . It was George Bush Sr. who initiated this folk tradition, repeated by the following presidents.
According to legend, this turkey leaves happy days in a zoo, rather than ending up on a plate.
Parades in all major cities
Many Americans take advantage of this day to attend the parades organized in the four corners of the country. The most impressive and famous parade is the one organized in New York by the department store chain Macy's . Released on television, and initiated in 1924, it mixes music groups, colorful costumes and many giant inflatable balloons.
Black Friday
The day after Thanksgiving is called Black Friday . On this day, stores offer huge discounts on many items . The opportunity to make Christmas shopping in advance ... But also to line up in some stores for hours!
A cult scene
If Thanksgiving is celebrated in multiple movies, it's the Friends series that is one of the most iconic scenes on the small screen . To cheer up Chandler, Monica does not hesitate to put a turkey on her head! One of the favorite moments of fans of the series!