At the core of the Thanksgiving holiday lies a celebration and moment of reflection on the bountiful harvest of the year. Celebrated annually on the fourth Thursday in November (in the U.S.), it’s a holiday that today transcends religious beliefs, bringing people from all generations, backgrounds and ethnicities together to enjoy family, traditions and a day away from it all.
While the roots of Thanksgiving may have both religious and cultural histories, the holiday has evolved into a more earthly and secular version of its origin. From celebrating with friends, to all the laughs and fun from the annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade to the competitive spirit of a Thanksgiving Day football game, more and more modern holiday traditions are becoming part of the norm. Does your family follow a strict traditional holiday plan or do you branch out each year? Here’s a look at some great ideas for making some new and fun Thanksgiving memories.
Friendsgiving. We don’t always have the time to get together with all of our favorite friends, share a meal away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life and just simply enjoy one another. Friendsgiving is a great way to bring the longstanding holiday traditions to your circle of friends – if you can’t be with family this year, celebrating with neighbors or friends is a great way to spend time together and make the holiday just as special.
Beachside Thanksgiving. How about traveling somewhere tropical this Thanksgiving and celebrating with an amazing coastal picnic? Rather than turkey and stuffing think more along the lines of fresh caught fish, light salads and fun drinks. Gather your family and friends and head out on a destination Thanksgiving or take a few days away with that special someone to enjoy the holiday and some time away from the hustle and bustle of life.
Potluck. Not sure you can pull off the whole Thanksgiving menu or perhaps you’d love to see and try the foods that are traditional for friends and extended family? Make this year’s Thanksgiving dinner a potluck – everyone brings something that’s their favorite traditional dish – you make the turkey! From cranberry sauce to pumpkin pie – rest assured it will all be there – but the process will be so easy and simple.
Vegetarian Thanksgiving. Are you headed down a more mindful and veggie focused health path? Can you imagine going fully vegetarian on Thanksgiving? No matter what drives you, a vegetarian (and even vegan) Thanksgiving is totally possible and completely delicious. Give it a try!
Restaurant Thanksgiving. For many of us, Thanksgiving is about being at home and being together, but sometimes life gets in the way a bit. Whether you’re overwhelmed from work and travel or you simply can’t pull it off at home, a restaurant Thanksgiving can be absolutely lovely. All the deliciousness and none of the work make it fun and stress-free, so why not?
Have you ever thought about breaking family tradition and going modern for Thanksgiving?
