Whether you’re new to Thanksgiving and all of the traditions that make it the most beloved holiday for many in the country, or you’re celebrating it with a new partner or new family and friends, you might want to make sure that you indulge in all the traditions that can really kick bring the holiday feeling. Here, we’re going to look at some of the very best traditions of the holiday and to make sure you have the presence to enjoy them.
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The Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade
It’s one of the biggest spectacles of the year, with seemingly half of New York City in attendance, acting very much as the official beginning of the holiday ceremony. There have been a ton of memorable Thanksgiving parade moments you can go down history lane to find out more about, but it’s worth tuning in with an early drink to see what they’re bringing out this year.
The Thanksgiving meal
Of course, there are a few things that make a holiday stand out like a good Thanksgiving dinner. You might be used to all of the usuals, the turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, potatoes, pie, and gravy. But if you want to make it a little extra special, why not add a side dish that doesn’t get much time of the year to shine otherwise, like this yams recipe? Different areas of the country all have their own sides and unique additions worth taking a look into, too.
Catching the game
For some families, breaking up the holidays with televised sports might be a real faux pas, but, for a lot of us, the Thanksgiving NFL games give us some time to relax after dinner, to sit and enjoy a moment of casual enjoyment together without feeling the pressure to make the day special. A lot of families even get the pigskin out themselves for a little post-game game.
Expressing what you’re thankful for
The holiday really is about giving thanks, quite literally, for what has allowed us to enjoy the lifestyles we have today, where we are. While times can be tough, especially lately, it’s important to hold onto the lights in your life that keep you going and bring joy, warmth, familiarity, and love to your life. Taking the time to give thanks for those parts of life is what makes the holiday really worthwhile for a lot of people.
The family photo
For a lot of us, Thanksgiving is the only time that we really get to gather up the whole family, and it is worth taking advantage of those moments. College-bound siblings, far-flung cousins, you might even run into a family friend you haven’t seen in a year or more. It’s a perfect excuse to get everyone together to commemorate the moment and, again, to be thankful for those in your life.
Thanksgiving truly is a unique holiday, one that brings with it not just a ceremony, but a sentiment that’s well worth taking the time to feel. Getting into the traditions above can make that a lot easier.
