I’ll be honest, dear reader. I’m so fascinated by holidays around the world and their differences.
I’ve talked before about how different holidays in America are celebrated elsewhere around the world. Typically, though, these holidays are all celebrating the same thing but the traditions of how might be a little different.
That changes with Thanksgiving!
As you know, Thanksgiving in America is that time of year right smack dab in the middle of the holiday season (it starts October 1 with Halloween and I won’t apologize for it!). Kind of a pit stop to rest, relax, and feast, as America gears up for the major arcana of the holidays.
But the title of “Thanksgiving” isn’t as definitive as one would think from country to country. Not even as definitive as being synonymous with indigenous culture.
So let’s take a look, shall we?
How Thanksgiving Is Celebrated Around The World
Canada
Let’s start with our neighbors to the North. Despite being celebrated on a Monday instead of a Thursday, Canadian Thanksgiving I would argue is one of the most similar to the American holiday and traditions. A feast to mark the harvest, autumnal vegetables are served (like in America) if not regional dishes, too (like salmon!).
Historically, and also over simplifying, Thanksgiving was celebrated irregularly and on different dates depending where in the country you were. Eventually it was declared a civic holiday in 1872 and a national holiday in 1879.
Japan
Formally titled Labor Thanksgiving Day, Japanese Thanksgiving is celebrated on November 23rd every year (unless the 23rd is a Sunday and then the holiday is observed on the following Monday). The holiday originally celebrates the year’s harvest, the festival then originally called Niiname-sai.
But, the holiday we know of today was created after World War II to commemorate the work of those who contribute to public service for the good of the country. Kids will make cards and gifts for police, coast guard, and other public facing service workers.
India
Thanksgiving in India takes on different forms and traditions depending on where you are, though not totally common. One area where it’s celebrated the most is in Goa. Under a different name, Ladin or Ladainha, the holiday is celebrated as a Christian holiday where those celebrating give thanks to God for their well being and they’ve been given.
Wheat, candles, and tinsel paper are some of what is purchased, and altars are built for proper celebrations.
Your Own Backyard
How do you celebrate Thanksgiving? What traditions do you or your family have that you keep year after year? Let us know!
