I had the chance to experience my very first Thanksgiving—a quintessentially American holiday that has always intrigued me. What made it even more special was that I got to celebrate it in the Bay Area, surrounded by the buzz of tech, cultural diversity, and beautiful coastal scenery.
Thanksgiving is often associated with gratitude, family gatherings, and, of course, the iconic turkey dinner. But before I dive into my own experience, let’s take a step back and explore the history of this cherished holiday.
Thanksgiving traces its origins back to the early 17th century when English Pilgrims settled in Plymouth, Massachusetts. In 1621, after enduring a harsh winter and facing food scarcity, the Pilgrims held a three-day feast to celebrate their first successful harvest, inviting members of the Wampanoag tribe who had helped them survive. This event is often romanticized as a moment of unity and cooperation.
However, the broader history of Thanksgiving is complex and layered, reflecting both celebration and controversy. For Native Americans, this period also marks the beginning of colonization, which led to profound loss of life, land, and culture. It’s important to acknowledge this duality when reflecting on the holiday today.
Thanksgiving didn’t become a national holiday until 1863, during Abraham Lincoln’s presidency. In the midst of the Civil War, Lincoln proclaimed a day of “Thanksgiving and Praise” to foster unity. Since then, Thanksgiving has evolved into a secular holiday celebrated with parades, football games, and a generous feast.
For my inaugural Thanksgiving, I went to my auntie's home in the Bay Area. The day started with the tantalizing aroma of roasting turkey, mashed potatoes smothered in tasty gravy, and a delicious spread of garlic bread, macaroni, and pasta.
We spent the day playing countless rounds of Uno and listening to Punjabi music late into the night. It was heartwarming and filled with laughter, making it a truly memorable experience.
The next day, we explored California’s Great America park, which added a fun, adventurous twist to the holiday. Between the delicious food, games, and outing, this Thanksgiving was an incredible mix of tradition and modern celebration, underscoring the joy of togetherness.
Thanksgiving, to me, is a reminder of the importance of gratitude, community, and acknowledging history. While the holiday has evolved over centuries, its core message remains relevant: taking a moment to appreciate life’s blessings.
Celebrating Thanksgiving for the first time was both delightful and thought-provoking. It gave me a deeper understanding of American traditions and the power of coming together. I look forward to incorporating my own twist on this tradition in the years to come, perhaps blending it with Indian flavors and customs.
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