HAPPY THANKSGIVING!

Vancouver, BC, October 02, 2023

Thanksgiving Traditions from Around the World: Embracing Global Expressions of Gratitude and Harvest Celebrations

Thanksgiving is a cherished holiday that celebrates gratitude, togetherness, and the bountiful harvest. While many of us are familiar with the traditions associated with Thanksgiving in our own country, there are fascinating and unique customs observed in various corners of the world. In this blog post, we embark on a journey to explore Thanksgiving traditions from around the globe, showcasing the diverse ways people express gratitude and celebrate harvest festivals. Join us as we embrace the rich tapestry of global traditions and find inspiration for our own Thanksgiving celebrations.

1. Sukkot (Israel): In Israel, the festival of Sukkot is a joyous celebration that coincides with the harvest season. Families build temporary shelters called sukkahs and decorate them with fruits, vegetables, and symbolic ornaments. They gather inside the sukkah to enjoy meals together, expressing gratitude for the abundance of nature and commemorating the shelter provided during the journey from Egypt to the Promised Land. 

2. Chuseok (South Korea): Chuseok, the Korean Thanksgiving, is a time for families to honor their ancestors and give thanks for the harvest. Families visit ancestral graves, perform rituals, and offer food as a sign of respect. They also partake in traditional games, music, and dance, creating a festive atmosphere that celebrates cultural heritage and expresses gratitude for a bountiful harvest. 

3. Erntedankfest (Germany): In Germany, Erntedankfest, or Harvest Thanksgiving Festival, is a time for communities to come together and give thanks for the harvest. Festivities include parades, music, and church services. People decorate churches and homes with fruits, vegetables, and grains, symbolizing abundance. Donations of food and produce are collected and distributed to those in need, embodying the spirit of gratitude and giving.

4. Pongal (India): Pongal is a four-day harvest festival celebrated in the southern state of Tamil Nadu, India. The highlight of the festivities is the preparation of a special dish called "Pongal," made from newly harvested rice, milk, and jaggery. Families gather to cook the dish outdoors, offering thanks to the sun god for a successful harvest. Decorations, music, and traditional dances complete the vibrant celebration. 

5. Lammas (United Kingdom): Lammas, also known as Lughnasadh, is an ancient Celtic festival celebrated in the United Kingdom. It marks the beginning of the harvest season and gives thanks for the first fruits of the land. Festivities include communal gatherings, feasting, and traditional games. People create corn dollies, a symbol of the harvest spirit, which are later placed on the table as part of the celebratory meal.

6. Thanksgiving (United States): In the United States, Thanksgiving is a time-honored tradition that originated with the Pilgrims and Native Americans. Families gather for a festive meal centered around a roasted turkey, accompanied by traditional dishes. It's a day to express gratitude for blessings, spend time with loved ones, and reflect on the history and cultural heritage of the country.