Thanksgiving, one of the most cherished holidays in the United States, is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November. Rooted in history and tradition, it commemorates the 1621 harvest feast shared by the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag people in Plymouth, Massachusetts.
Originally a day to give thanks for the harvest and blessings of the past year, Thanksgiving has evolved into a national holiday centered on gratitude, gatherings with family and friends, food, volunteerism and even silly games.
Volunteers assemble boxes of food for seniors ahead of the holidays at the Capital Area Food Bank in Washington, U.S., November 27, 2024. REUTERS/Nathan Howard
Many also participate in parades, such as the iconic annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City, or watch American football games, a longstanding Thanksgiving tradition.
The traditional Thanksgiving meal typically features turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie, yet this meal is evolving due to increasing food allergies and preferences, such as veganism.
Regardless of what is served up, families and friends come together to share these dishes, reflecting on what they are thankful for.
Friendsgiving
In recent years, Friendsgiving has emerged as a modern twist on the traditional celebration, deriving its inspiration from the famous TV series Friends.
Coined from the words “friends” and “Thanksgiving,” Friendsgiving is a more informal gathering, typically celebrated before or after Thanksgiving Day, but sometimes also on the holiday itself.
It has gained popularity among younger generations and those who may not be able to travel home for the holiday, do to work obligations or excessive travel costs. Unlike the traditional family-centered Thanksgiving, Friendsgiving emphasizes friendship and community.
Friendsgiving celebrations are often potluck-style, with attendees bringing their favorite dishes to share. The casual approach fosters a sense of inclusion and creativity, as friends might experiment with unique dishes or dietary-friendly options.
Friendsgiving often feels less structured, focusing more on enjoying good food and the company of close friends, and even includes activities and games.
Black Friday and its Backlash
While Thanksgiving celebrates gratitude and togetherness, it also marks the unofficial start of the holiday shopping season, ushered in by Black Friday. The day after Thanksgiving, Black Friday, is synonymous with massive sales and early-morning shopping sprees.
Historically, Black Friday became prominent in the mid-20th century as U.S. retailers sought to capitalize on the post-Thanksgiving shopping rush. Over time, it has expanded into a global phenomenon, with many countries adopting the concept of deep discounts and extended shopping hours, including Greece, to jumpstart Christmas gift purchasing.
The relationship between Thanksgiving, Friendsgiving, and Black Friday reflects how the holiday season has transformed over the years, sometimes in contradictory ways.
While Thanksgiving and Friendsgiving remain celebrations of reflection and gratitude, the commercialization of Black Friday shifted the focus for some to consumerism and shopping deals. But after several years of violence at stores in the U.S.- some of which were deadly- an increasing portion of of Americans are turning away from the Black Friday mad-dash.
Despite these changes, Thanksgiving and Friendsgiving continue to hold deep cultural significance. Many now acknowledge the complex history of the Thanksgiving holiday, recognizing the impact of colonialism on Indigenous peoples. Some use the day to educate themselves and honor Native American heritage and resilience.
Meanwhile, Friendsgiving, in particular, reflects shifting societal norms, catering to a generation that values chosen families and diverse traditions, and a movement toward inclusivity, as people create new ways to celebrate and connect.
In summary, Thanksgiving and Friendsgiving exemplify the evolving nature of traditions in a changing world. From family feasts to friends’ potlucks, from football games to Black Friday deals, these celebrations continue to adapt while maintaining their essence: gratitude, togetherness, and the creation of lasting memories.
