Thanksgiving is a cherished holiday in the United States and Canada, marked by family gatherings, feasting, and expressions of gratitude. Celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November in the United States and the second Monday of October in Canada, Thanksgiving has its roots in the early harvest celebrations of European settlers. The holiday has evolved over the centuries, reflecting the diverse cultural traditions and values of North America.
The origins of Thanksgiving can be traced back to the Pilgrims, a group of English settlers who arrived in the New World aboard the Mayflower in 1620. After enduring a harsh winter and struggling to grow crops in an unfamiliar environment, the Pilgrims were taught by the native Wampanoag people to cultivate corn, beans, and squash, which ultimately led to a successful harvest. In 1621, the Pilgrims held a three-day feast to give thanks for their bountiful harvest, an event that is widely considered the first Thanksgiving celebration.
Does Ireland Celebrate Thanksgiving?
Ireland and Irish people in general do not celebrate Thanksgiving. However, we are very aware of the festival of Thanksgiving as an occurrence, but most Irish people likely could not tell you the date of Thanksgiving, nor what it celebrates. Ireland typically only celebrates Catholic festivals, or Celtic festivals. As the Pilgrims were a group of English Protestant settlers, Ireland has no connection with this festival.
There are however Americans who live in Ireland and would celebrate Thanksgiving. Some restaurant and bars may also have Thanksgiving related festivities but for the most part, it goes unmarked.
