November is a month filled with warmth, family, and of course, delicious food. One of the biggest celebrations in November is Thanksgiving, a holiday that brings people together to enjoy a meal and give thanks for all their blessings. The food we eat on Thanksgiving today is very different from what people had at the first feast in 1621.
The Pilgrims and Native Americans celebrated the first Thanksgiving. They didn’t have turkey or pumpkin pie like we do now. Instead, their meal included wild game, corn, and vegetables. The Native Americans taught the Pilgrims how to grow crops and gather food from the land, which helped them survive. Over time, these meals changed as new traditions formed.
Today, modern Thanksgiving dinners usually include turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie. In 1953, the first TV dinner was even created to use up leftover Thanksgiving turkeys! Nowadays, Thanksgiving food reflects the mix of cultures in America. Many families include their own cultural dishes on the table. For example, some Hispanic families enjoy potato salad, pernil (pork shoulder/leg), or arroz con gandules (rice with pigeon peas), showing how traditions can blend together. According to fellow classmates, “Potato salad is a STAPLE in a Dominican household for Thanksgiving dinner.”
Food in November isn’t just about the Thanksgiving meal itself; it’s about the feeling of togetherness it brings. Many people spend the whole month preparing for family gatherings, cooking favorite recipes, and trying new ones. The smell of warm pies, roasted meats, and fresh bread fills homes with comfort and excitement. Every dish tells a story about where a family comes from and what they value most.
Thanksgiving is more than just about food. It’s a time to be grateful for what we have. Families come together to celebrate good health, love, and achievements. Sharing a meal helps people connect and appreciate one another. As November progresses, it’s essential to remember the significance behind the food. Whether you’re eating turkey, potato salad, or something else, what matters most is spending time with loved ones and being thankful.
