The History of Thanksgiving: Origins and Traditions

Pilgrims and Native Americans sharing the first Thanksgiving meal

Let’s get the basic question out of the way before we get into it. You might be asking yourself, “What is Thanksgiving?”. It’s basically an annual holiday that’s celebrated mainly in the United States and Canada. In the U.S., it falls on every fourth Thursday of November each year. This means in 2025, it will be celebrated on November 27th.

 

Some facts about Thanksgiving are that, in terms of its history or origins, it dates back to 1621. This was when English settlers known as the Pilgrims shared a harvest meal with the Wampanoag Native Americans in Plymouth, Massachusetts. This was considered the first ever Thanksgiving. And as years go by, this slowly started to become a national tradition, a day to express gratitude for the good things in life and enjoy time with loved ones.

 

The Reason Behind Why Celebrating Thanksgiving Is Still Popular

While history gives us a background, why do people celebrate Thanksgiving today? For most, it’s about getting together with family or friends and spending time. It’s that one time in a year when even the busiest of people stop to share a meal and reflect on what they’re thankful for. It could be anything, from good health to career milestones to new friends or simply the time of being together.

 

It could also be about giving back. Not just families but communities around the country host food drives or volunteer events during this season to those who need help. So, in a way, we can define Thanksgiving as showing gratitude and generosity.

 

Celebrate Thanksgiving with a Table Full of Comfort

Top view of a festive Thanksgiving dinner table with turkey and seasonal dishes

If there’s one single thing people think Thanksgiving is famous for, it’s the food. The Thanksgiving feast is a meal that’s comforting and filling to satisfy even the hungriest souls. It’s often prepared from recipes passed down in the family from generation to generation.

 

Here are some of the best Thanksgiving dishes and classics you will probably find on any Thanksgiving table:

 

  • Roast Turkey: The centrepiece of nearly every celebration.
  • Stuffing (or dressing): A flavourful bread that’s mixed and cooked with herbs, onions and sometimes even sausage.
  • Mashed Potatoes & Gravy: No one could forget a roast turkey without creamy mashed potatoes and gravy.
  • Cranberry Sauce: It’s sweet, it’s tarty and is the perfect contrast to the main meal.
  • Green Bean Casserole: A baked dish consisting of green beans that serves as a great complement to the main course.
  • Mac and Cheese: A southern favourite that has managed to make its way to every table in America everywhere.

And how could we forget dessert? Pumpkin pie is definitely the star of the whole course. But people also sometimes switch between apple and pecan pies. These are some of the best Thanksgiving desserts to end your meal with a sweet note before resting your full tummy.

Popular Drinks to Toast the Season

Festive Thanksgiving drinks on a table by the fireplace

Any Thanksgiving food spread is never complete without a few festive drinks. Especially for the adults (wink, wink). Some people stick to traditions with apple cider or eggnog, while others enjoy a glass of wine or spiced cocktails.

Here are a few Thanksgiving drinks that always hit the right note:

  • Hot apple cider with cinnamon sticks
  • Mulled wine with oranges and cloves
  • Cranberry spritzers
  • Pumpkin spice lattes (yes, they’re still going strong!)

Whether alcoholic or not, the goal is the same, warmth, comfort, and good company.

Where to Eat Thanksgiving Dinner

Family celebrating Thanksgiving dinner together

You don’t have to worry if cooking isn’t something you want to do, or spending the holiday away from home. There are lots of options and places to eat Thanksgiving dinner at. In most of the major cities in the US, restaurants offer prix-fixe Thanksgiving menus. Hotels also offer and host buffet-style dinners. Community centres across the country also organise potlucks.

 

Even if you’re not in the US or Canada, you can find many expat-friendly restaurants in cities such as London, Paris and even Bangkok. So, if you’re traveling during Thanksgiving 2025, stop worrying, seriously! You have plenty of options to choose from and don’t have to miss out on the flavour of home.

No Flight Home? How to Celebrate Thanksgiving Abroad

If you’re traveling during the holidays, you might wonder how to celebrate the festival away from home. It’s pretty much easier than you think, especially if you’ve seen movies or shows centred around a group of friends. You can host a “Friendsgiving” with other fellow companions or find an international restaurant that serves American dishes.

 

Even while traveling, technology such as eSIM makes connection possible and effortless. A quick video call with family or sharing dinner photos online, you name it.

 

For travelers who are looking for seasonal destinations, you could plan ahead for your next trip to the best countries for Christmas. Can you imagine going from a cozy Thanksgiving meal straight to snowy markets and festive lights? It almost fills you with warmth just thinking about it.

Share the Feast Instantly & Stay Online with Airhub eSIM

Whether you’re at home or abroad, staying in touch during the holidays matters. We suggest getting a global eSIM from international and reputable providers like Airhub eSIM. It’s so much easier to keep your connection alive that way. You can get access to premium features above the usual data connection such as:

  • Unlimited Data: For browsing and scrolling on the internet without data worries.
  • Local Number: To communicate with your friends or locals and book tickets.
  • Hotspot Sharing: Share data plans with other devices from a single plan.
  • Top Up: Ran out of data in the middle of the trip? Easily recharge without having to buy a new eSIM.

With a single QR code, you can call your loved ones, share photos of your Thanksgiving feast, or even stream a movie marathon with family back home. It’s one of the simplest ways to make the holidays feel close, even when you’re far away.

Here’s to a Memorable Thanksgiving

Whether you’re sharing a hearty turkey with family or having a fun Friendsgiving abroad, always be sure you’re Thankful for the day. This holiday season, celebrate Thanksgiving your way and keep your loved ones close (even if it’s over a video call) and buy eSIM plans online and stay connected. Here’s to full plates, even fuller hearts and an unforgettable Thanksgiving in 2025.

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