Thanksgiving in the United States is synonymous with a hearty feast, but the holiday is much more than turkey and cranberry sauce. Families across the nation have cherished Thanksgiving traditions that go beyond the dining table. Learn some of these heartwarming customs that make Thanksgiving a truly special time of year.
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Prepare your family and loved ones for Thanksgiving by sending them money. Whether they need to pay bills, cover expenses, or buy ingredients for the feast, Western Union can assist you. The Western Union app allows you to send money quickly and securely from the convenience of your phone.
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American Thanksgiving traditions
There are several American Thanksgiving traditions and events that make the holiday special. Some of them include:
Thanksgiving parades and football
Thanksgiving morning often kicks off with two quintessential American traditions: parades and football. Millions of viewers tune in to watch nationally televised Thanksgiving Day parades that feature spectacular giant balloons processions, marching bands, and celebrity performances. For many, it’s a joyful way to start the day.
For football, the professional league serves up a feast of its own with a triple-header lineup of games. Families gather around the TV to cheer for their favorite teams while cooking and anticipating the big meal to come.
Turkey trots
In recent years, “Turkey trots” have gained popularity as a pre-feast tradition. These community runs or walks offer a healthy twist for the holiday. Participants take part in 5K races or fun runs, often dressed in turkey-themed costumes. It’s a fantastic way to burn some calories before indulging in the Thanksgiving spread.
The wishbone tradition
After the meal, many families engage in the age-old wishbone tradition. This custom involves two people tugging at the turkey’s wishbone, each making a silent wish. The one who ends up with the larger piece is believed to have their wish granted.
Gratitude journals and volunteering
Thanksgiving is all about gratitude, and some families take it a step further with gratitude journals. Each member of the family writes down something they’re thankful for, creating a record of appreciation to revisit year after year.
Others use Thanksgiving as an opportunity for acts of kindness. They volunteer at local shelters or donate to charities, ensuring that the holiday spirit of giving back is alive and well.
Creative crafts
For those looking to get crafty, Thanksgiving offers a perfect opportunity. Families often gather to create homemade decorations, like hand-painted pumpkins, leaf garlands, or personalized table settings. Crafting together strengthens bonds and adds a personal touch to the holiday celebration.
Friendsgiving
Thanksgiving is not limited to biological families. Many people celebrate “Friendsgiving,” a gathering of close friends who become like family. Friends come together to share a meal, gratitude, and cherished memories. It’s a wonderful way to create a sense of belonging, especially for those far from their hometowns.
Black Friday: shopping for deals
While technically a tradition that occurs after Thanksgiving, Black Friday shopping has become an integral part of the holiday weekend for many Americans. After giving thanks, some families head out early the next morning to find deals on everything from electronics to clothing. It’s a great way to prepare for the next major holiday, Christmas, by snagging some deals on big ticket gift items.
Connecting loved ones with Western Union
No matter how you choose to celebrate Thanksgiving, one thing remains constant: the importance of connecting with loved ones. Whether you’re sharing a meal, making memories, or even sending money to support someone’s holiday expenses, being there for family and friends is at the heart of this holiday.
With Western Union, you can ensure that your gestures of love and support reach your loved ones, no matter where they are. Send money reliably and conveniently online, through the Western Union app, or by visiting an agent location. Let Thanksgiving be a time for togetherness, no matter the distance.
