Hey there, Thanksgiving enthusiasts! As we gear up for a day filled with family, feasting, and football, let’s dive into some surprising tidbits about this beloved American holiday. You might think you know all there is about Thanksgiving, but trust me, there’s more to this festive day than meets the eye. From unexpected historical twists to quirky traditions, I’ve got eight fascinating facts about Thanksgiving that will surely spice up your dinner table conversations. So, grab your pumpkin spice latte, and let’s unravel the hidden layers of Thanksgiving together!
Thanksgiving’s Date – A Late Official Decision
Did you know Thanksgiving didn’t have a fixed date until the 1940s? That’s right, it wasn’t until 1941, under President Franklin D. Roosevelt, that Thanksgiving was officially set as the last Thursday of November. Before that, it was more of a ‘pick a date’ kind of holiday!
The First Feast – No Turkey or Pie?
Imagine a Thanksgiving without turkey, potatoes, or pumpkin pie. Hard to believe, right? Well, the first Thanksgiving feast was all about venison, fowl, and fish. Turkey and pie joined the party much later.
‘Franksgiving’ – A Presidential Oops
In 1939, Roosevelt decided to move Thanksgiving up a week, hoping to boost the economy. Spoiler: It didn’t go down well. This move sparked the ‘Franksgiving’ controversy, splitting the nation’s celebrations in two.
The Origin of TV Dinners
Here’s a fun fact: TV dinners trace back to Thanksgiving! In 1953, Swanson found itself with an excess of 260 tons of frozen turkeys. Their solution? Create the first-ever TV dinner. Talk about innovative leftovers management!
Presidential Turkey Pardons
Every year, the U.S. president ‘pardons’ a turkey or two, a whimsical tradition that became an official event in 1989. It’s a quirky, yet heartwarming gesture that adds a bit of humor to the holiday.
“Jingle Bells” – A Thanksgiving Tune?
Believe it or not, “Jingle Bells” was originally a Thanksgiving song, written in the 1850s for the Medford sleigh races. It only later became associated with Christmas.
Why You Feel Sleepy After the Feast
Feeling sleepy after your Thanksgiving meal? It’s not just the turkey’s fault. While turkey does contain tryptophan, the real culprit is likely the carb overload from all the festive eating.
Wishbone Traditions
The practice of breaking the turkey’s wishbone dates back to ancient times, with the lucky winner of the larger piece supposedly having their wish granted. It’s a tradition that’s as old as time but still brings joy to the dinner table.
Macy’s Parade’s Humble Beginnings
Last but not least, the iconic Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade started in 1924 without its famous balloons. These only made their grand entrance in 1927, adding a whole new level of magic to the event.
And there you have it – eight intriguing facts that shed a whole new light on Thanksgiving. This holiday is more than just a day of gratitude; it’s a tapestry rich with history, oddities, and traditions that have evolved over centuries. As you sit down to enjoy your turkey (or Tofurky) this year, remember these fun facts. They’re sure to add an extra dash of excitement to your festivities. Happy Thanksgiving, everyone! May your day be filled with joy, delicious food, and perhaps a newfound appreciation for the quirky history of this wonderful holiday.