Thanksgiving Fun Facts for Kids
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Thanksgiving is a holiday that many kids look forward to every year. With delicious food, time with family and friends, and exciting traditions, it’s a time to reflect on gratitude and celebrate the blessings in our lives. But did you know there are many fun facts about Thanksgiving too? Here are some facts that are sure to entertain and educate kids.
- The first Thanksgiving was in 1621
The first Thanksgiving was celebrated by the Pilgrims and Native Americans in 1621 after the Pilgrims had successfully harvested their crops. This feast lasted for three days and included wild game, fish, and vegetables.
- Turkeys weren’t always the main dish
Although turkeys are now the most common Thanksgiving dish, the Pilgrims probably ate wild game such as deer and fowl, as well as fish and vegetables.
- The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade is over 90 years old
The first Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade was held in 1924 and featured live animals from the Central Park Zoo. Today, the parade includes giant balloons, floats, and performances by celebrities.
- The pardoning of the turkey started with President Truman
Although there are stories of president’s pardoning turkeys as far back as Lincoln, the tradition of the Presidential pardon didn’t start until 1947 when President Truman pardoned a turkey that was sent to him for Thanksgiving.
- Football is a big part of Thanksgiving
Many families watch football on Thanksgiving Day. The Detroit Lions have been playing football on Thanksgiving since 1934, and the Dallas Cowboys have been doing it since 1966.
- Cranberries are native to North America
Cranberries, often served as a Thanksgiving side dish, are native to North America. They were used by Native Americans for food, medicine, and even dye.
- The busiest travel day of the year is the Wednesday before Thanksgiving
Many people travel to be with family for Thanksgiving, making the Wednesday before Thanksgiving the busiest travel day of the year.
- Thanksgiving is celebrated in other countries too
Although it’s mainly an American holiday, Thanksgiving is also celebrated in Canada, Liberia, and the Caribbean island of Grenada.