Last Updated on June 22, 2020 by Amanda Stancati
Whether you’re looking forward to a reunion with great friends and family, devouring great food, enjoying a relaxing time off from work, or giving thanks to all the wonderful things that has come your way – Thanksgiving is without a doubt an exciting time for many. Today, the tripcentral.ca team highlights some of the different Thanksgiving traditions prevalent around the world. There’s a lot to be thankful for, so let’s wrap ourselves in this joyous season and spread the cheer.
Turkey Trot in the US
A turkey trot is a fun run or footrace held on or around Thanksgiving in the United States to burn off calories before a big meal. Many are organized at major certified USA Track and Field road race which distances between 5,000 and 42,195 metres. In light of the season, most turkey trots are centred on raising funds for charitable causes.
China’s Mid-Autumn Moon Festival
Like the American Thanksgiving, China’s Mid-Autumn Moon Festival is celebrated to revel the end of the harvest season with a giant feast. It is one of the most celebrated Chinese holidays and occurs on the 15th day of the 8th lunar month, around September or October on the Gregorian calendar. According to legend, the moon is at its brightest and roundest on this day and may inspire rekindled friendship and love.
Korea’s Chuseok
Celebrated in late September and early October, this 3-day event of thanks is one of Korea’s three major holidays. This is when family members come together to share food and stories and give thanks to their ancestors for an abundant harvest.
Plimoth Plantation’s First Thanksgiving
Giving thanks had always been a part of Wampanoag daily life. In 1621, when their labours were rewarded with a bountiful harvest after a year of sickness and scarcity, the Pilgrims expressed appreciation by holding a feast and sporting activities. This tradition is still alive today and is celebrated with a historically delicious-sounding menu.
Brazilian Thanksgiving
The Thanksgiving Day in Brazil is observed on the fourth Thursday of November. Similar to our traditions, this day is celebrated to express gratitude and appreciation for the abundant harvest throughout the year. The Thanksgiving Day in Brazil is also known for its colossal carnival.
Ghana’s Homowo Festival
The Homowo festival is celebrated by the Ga people from the Greater Accra Region of Ghana between May and August to commemorate a period of famine in their history. During harvest, women dig up yams, which are then blessed by local chiefs. The celebration ends with a giant feast that is complemented by dancing, singing and drum-playing.
Now it’s your turn – how are you giving thanks this year? Any special Thanksgiving traditions you follow? Let us know in the comment section below.
