Happy (almost) Thanksgiving! As the season of gratitude arrives, we’re diving into some fun, surprising, and delightful facts about this beloved American holiday. Whether you're gathering with family, cooking up a feast, or just enjoying the long weekend, these fascinating tidbits are sure to spark conversation at the table!

1. The First Thanksgiving Was a Three-Day Festival

In 1621, the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag tribe shared a harvest celebration that lasted three full days—not just an afternoon meal!

2. Turkey Wasn’t the Main Dish

Historical records suggest the menu likely included venison, seafood, pumpkins, and harvest crops—but probably not the oversized roast turkey we know today.

3. Thanksgiving Became a National Holiday Thanks to One Woman

Writer Sarah Josepha Hale (also the author of Mary Had a Little Lamb) spent 17 years campaigning before President Abraham Lincoln declared Thanksgiving a national holiday in 1863.

4. The First Macy’s Parade Didn’t Feature Balloons

The 1924 parade included animals from the Central Park Zoo instead of the giant character balloons we know and love today. This year tune into watch our own NAU Marching Band. They were chosen to do the ribbon cutting at the start of the Parade- a huge honor! To represent our city, they will be playing “Get Your Kicks on Rt. 66”!

5. Americans Eat About 46 Million Turkeys Every Year

That’s nearly one turkey for every seven people in the country!

6. “TV Dinner” Was Invented Because of Thanksgiving Leftovers

In 1953, Swanson ordered too many frozen turkeys—over 260 tons! To solve the problem, the company packaged the leftovers into trays and accidentally created the first TV dinner.

7. The Presidential Turkey Pardon Is a Modern Tradition

Although stories trace it back to earlier presidents, the first official “pardon” occurred in 1989 under President George H.W. Bush.

8. Thanksgiving Isn’t Just American

Canada celebrates Thanksgiving too—on the second Monday in October. Other countries, like Liberia and Grenada, also celebrate their own versions of a harvest holiday.

9. Black Friday Became a Shopping Term in the 1960s

Philadelphia police coined the term to describe the post-Thanksgiving traffic chaos and expanded retail rush.

10. It’s the Biggest Travel Week of the Year

More Americans hit the road, sky, and rails during Thanksgiving weekend than any other holiday—surpassing even Christmas.

No matter how you celebrate, Thanksgiving reminds us to pause, reconnect, and express appreciation for the blessings in our lives. I am so very thankful for all of you and your families! May your holiday be filled with family, warmth and laughter.

Blessings and Happy Thanksgiving,

 Kim