Ah, Thanksgiving – the beloved holiday of feasting and family gatherings. The day in which we get together with friends and family to give thanks while enjoying good food and memories. But when exactly was Thanksgiving 2013? Read this article to find out!
1. Thanksgiving 2013: A Time for Reflection and Gratitude
Looking back on 2013, it is easy to see why there is so much to be thankful for. The days, months, and year can seem like they are all blurring together, but, in reality, a great deal has changed and we can take this time to reflect on those changes. We have seen progress, been through struggles, and experienced joys, all of which lead us to be able to appreciate life a little bit more.
This year, in particular, has been a particularly special year in terms of growth. Perhaps it was the new job, the promotion or even the birth of a baby. No matter what it was, there is good reason to be grateful- each event brought us to this point in life. We should also extend that gratitude to all of those who have helped us along the way. Friends, family, and the community as a whole can all be thanked for their support.
Now is the perfect time for a bit of reflection. When we think of the things we appreciate, it allows us to develop gratitude and be more mindful in our daily life. We can use this time to think of the emotions and experiences that fill us with joy and to remind us to be thankful and enjoy life.
At this time of year, there are a few things to consider:
- Our relationships with friends and family
- Our successes, both small and large
- Our ability and drive to learn and challenge ourselves
- Our ability to find joy in the small things
All in all, Thanksgiving is the perfect time to appreciate what we have and to take the opportunity for a truly reflective moment.
2. Trace the Roots of Thanksgiving 2013 to Its Historical Origins
Thanksgiving 2013 marks a time of giving thanks, feasts, and family gatherings. But the process of tracing the holiday back to its roots reveals an interesting combination of origins from Native American and European traditions.
Native American Celebrations
The Wampanoag tribe was among the first to join the Pilgrims in the Harvest Festival of 1621. Dinners included wild geese, deer, corn and fruits of the season. The tradition of the “first harvest” celebration became a part of the Wampanoag culture long before the Pilgrims arrived. Other Native American tribes also used the harvest celebration as part of their ancient traditions.
European Celebrations
The Puritan Colonists were primarily of English, Dutch and German Protestant backgrounds. Their culture had religious holidays that marked both pagan and Christian traditions. A fall harvest feast or banquet was a part of this tradition and was a celebration of having sufficient food to eat after the sometimes difficult harvest season, when harvests of grain were inadequate.
Thanksgiving Becomes an Official National Holiday
In 1789, the first year of his presidency, George Washington made the first presidential proclamation on Thanksgiving Day. Throughout the nineteenth century, some states celebrated the fourth Thursday of November as an annual Thanksgiving holiday, however, it was not officially recognized until 1863, when President Abraham Lincoln declared an official Thanksgiving Day in the middle of the Civil War. In 1941, the U.S. Congress officially declared the fourth Thursday of November as Thanksgiving Day.
- The Pilgrims of Plymouth celebrated the first thanksgiving in 1621 with the Wampanoag Native Americans
- Early European settlers were inspired by pagan and Christian traditions that celebrated the fall harvest
- George Washington issued the first Thanksgiving Day proclamation in 1789
- In 1863, President Lincoln declared the fourth Thursday of November as Thanksgiving Day
3. Thanksgiving 2013 – A Day to Celebrate with Friends and Family
Gathering Friends and Family
Thanksgiving is that special day of the year which gathers close family and friends around the table. The conversations and laughs echo between the walls, every chair is full with joy and love, and each moment is filled with the type of warmth that only those near and dear can bring. To make the most of the time spent together, it is important to carve out moments to celebrate and appreciate one another throughout the evening.
The Holiday Meal
At the heart of any Thanksgiving celebration is a delicious and plentiful meal, a combination of traditional dishes and newer favorites that cover the table and bring joy to everyone involved. Specifically, a meal like this could include:
- Crispy turkey
- Mashed potatoes
- Cornbread
- Cranberry sauce
No matter the menu, it is important to remember that Thanksgiving is about sharing a meal with loved ones, not about the food itself.
Reliving the Memories
Thanksgiving is a time to reminisce on the moments made with family and friends from years past. Before the dinner is served, a special moment can be taken to tell everyone gathered what you are thankful for in life. Perhaps it is the success of a business, the marriage of a daughter, or the passing of an exam — whatever it is, it is meaningful and should be remembered.
Getting Creative
After the meal, trying getting creative and crafty. Invite everyone to sit down and make ornaments, paper mache lanterns, or decorations that showcase a favorite memory from years past. Not only does this allow the family to craft with new materials and tools, it also makes up a special keepsake for everyone that attended or idea to share with the upcoming generation. It’s a creative way to bring the family together and make memorable keepsakes at the same time.
4. Taste Delicious Recipes from Around the US on Thanksgiving 2013
Thanksgiving is all about holidays, friends, family, gratitude, and… food! Delicious recipes from around the US are part of what makes America’s most cherished holiday so special. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party, traveling or simply cooking in the comfort of your own home, there will be plenty of mouthwatering dishes to choose from!
- The Classics – Sweet potatoes, cornbread, macaroni and cheese, green beans, and cranberry sauce.
- The New Favorites – Roasted turkey or chicken, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and gravy.
- Regional Dishes – While each region in the US will have its own specialty dishes like casseroles, pies, and relishes, some of the most popular include:
- New York – Apple cider glazed turkey
- New England – Butternut squash chowder
- The Southwest – Cornbread stuffed poblano peppers
- The South – Hickory-smoked pork roast
With so many delicious recipes to choose from, it can be difficult to decide which ones to make. Don’t worry – if the thought of cooking an entire feast makes you nervous, there’s no need to worry. You can always pick up a meal already prepared by local chefs, catering services, or even grocery stores.
Plus, many people are turning to inventive recipes like vegan, gluten-free, and paleo-friendly dishes that will help make the perfect dinner or dessert for those with dietary restrictions. No matter what kind of meal you’re planning for Thanksgiving, there’s sure to be something to please every guest.
5. Explore the Meaningful Traditions of Thanksgiving 2013
The Meaningful Traditions of Thanksgiving 2013:
- Giving Thanks: Every year, families gather around the table to give thanks for all that their lives bring, from their accomplishments to the people that love them. Whether you choose to express your gratitude on Thanksgiving or each day of the year, it’s a meaningful tradition that can help people to truly appreciate the small blessings in life.
- Cooking Together: Thanksgiving is all about getting together and bringing the family closer. Give everyone a chance to get in the kitchen and cook something special together. Perhaps make it a competition for the best side dish or dessert. Above all, don’t forget to savor the dough-making process as you prepare tasty holiday treats together.
- Receiving on Giving: Many families enjoy donating to their local food bank, homeless organization, or another charity on Thanksgiving to help those who are less fortunate. Organizations may be giving out free meals or items to those in need. What a valuable tradition to pass onto the children—the art of giving.
- Carrying on the Tradition: For families who’ve been passing the same dishes, toast, and stories down through generations, Thanksgiving is the one time of year to truly celebrate where the family has come from. Honor elders by asking them to share their memories and experiences over the years. Keep the tradition alive and pass it to the younger generations.
Thanksgiving is all about bringing friends and family together and celebrating the holidays with meaningful traditions. From the first bite of turkey to the slice of pumpkin pie, these meaningful traditions can make the season that much more special. Encourage everyone in the family to take part in the festivities and get ready to make the most out of the gift of the holiday season.
6. Uncover the Charm of Thanksgiving 2013 Decorations
Bring Fall Into Your Home
Thanksgiving is the best time of year to give thanks and decorate your home. This year, bring the outdoors inside with rustic and earthy tones and colors. Try implementing natural elements such as twine and antlers to bring a unique charm to your decorations. Bring out your inner artist and hang up some silhouettes of Fall foliage to give your space a country feel.
Creating a Cozy Environment
Nothing says Thanksgiving like an inviting space full of comfort and warmth. You can do this by bringing out your flannel sheets, crackling candles, and of course, a message of thanks. Invited guests will feel welcomed and special when surrounded by special touches like a uniformed table set up with cozy mugs and personalized coasters. Plus, having a few pieces of freshly baked pumpkin pie or cookies out will make for a sweet gesture!
Accessorize the Space
Incorporating new and unique accessories into your décor will elevate the look of any room. Add some modern touches with colorful cornucopias or metallic skulls for a fresh twist on old traditions. You can also liven up the space with extra splashes of color through pumpkins and gourds. These elements will bring the Fall spirit to life, guaranteed.
No Detail Is Too Small
Small details can make a huge impact to the décor of any particular area. Think outside the box and try small decorations like:
- Scented or printed leaves
- Red and golden apples
- Hand-painted signs or trinkets
By adding these small details, you will create the atmosphere of a Fall wonderland, and your guests will be delighted.
7. Learn How to Make the Most of Thanksgiving 2013
Start Planning in Advance
Planning ahead is essential when it comes to making the most of Thanksgiving 2013. Get together with family and friends and begin to brainstorm ideas and determine how many people you can accommodate and what sort of food you would like to serve. Once you have a rough plan figured out, you can begin making preparations ahead of time so that on the day of the event all you have left to do is relax. Here are a few things to think about:
- Start collecting and buying ingredients.
- Invite guests and confirm plans.
- Assign some tasks to family members or friends who want to help.
Look for Decoration Ideas
Thanksgiving decorations can easily transform your house or chosen location from a basic setting to one that is truly festive. From colorful centerpieces, motifs and arrangements to inviting table settings, there are creative ways to add a touch of fall to your event. Spend some time looking through magazines and design websites to see what items you can make or purchase. The ideas you come up with will help give your Thanksgiving 2013 celebration its own unique Appeal.
Don’t Get Stuck in the Kitchen
In many households, the family cook is front and center during the preparation process. Thanks to turkey roasters, slow cookers and other kitchen gadgets, however, you can spend less time slaving over the stove and more time connecting with your dinner guests. Entertaining and discussing the year’s events don’t have to wait until the meal is over. Take breaks during the cooking process and spend time with your friends and family.
Keep Your Guests in Mind
If you have a wide range of ages in your Thanksgiving 2013 gathering, make sure that you keep everyone in mind. While the adults might have more leisurely conversations, children may need activities or a separate meal. Keep them occupied by organizing a game of tag, football or a talent show. You may also want to suggest the adults split up so that the kids can have some undivided attention from grown-ups.
Wishing everyone a happy Thanksgiving––no matter when it is––keeps us all in the spirit of gratitude. While Thanksgiving 2013 is history, we can all celebrate the blessing of good food, good company, and a thankful heart year-round.