Thanksgiving Around the World

Who Else Celebrates Gratitude in November?

Thanksgiving might be synonymous with turkey and football in the U.S., but the idea of setting aside a day to express gratitude isn't exclusive to America. In fact, cultures around the globe have their own unique ways of giving thanks. Some with fascinating traditions, delicious foods, and even some wild celebrations. Ever wondered who else celebrates gratitude, and how? Let’s take a quick trip around the world to find out!

1. Canada: Thanksgiving’s Cooler Sibling 🍁

Did you know Canada celebrates Thanksgiving before Americans? That’s right! Our northern neighbors sit down for their turkey dinners on the second Monday of October. The holiday traces back to explorer Martin Frobisher, who held a feast to give thanks after surviving treacherous voyages in the late 1500s.

Their Style: Think cozy autumn vibes, pumpkin pie, and a slightly less chaotic Black Friday.

2. Japan: Labor Thanksgiving Day 🗻

Japan doesn’t roast turkeys, but they do have Kinrō Kansha no Hi, or Labor Thanksgiving Day, celebrated on November 23rd. This day blends ancient harvest festivals with modern gratitude for hard work.

Celebration Style: Public ceremonies honor workers, and families express appreciation for each other. It’s like Thanksgiving meets Worker’s Day.

3. Liberia: A Unique Twist 🌴

Liberia, founded by freed American slaves in the 19th century, adapted Thanksgiving into its own holiday. Celebrated on the first Thursday of November, it’s a blend of U.S. Thanksgiving traditions with African flair.

Their Style: Instead of turkey, the centerpiece might be roasted chicken or spicy Liberian dishes like jollof rice and cassava.

4. Germany: Erntedankfest 🍂

Germany's Erntedankfest (Harvest Festival of Thanks) doesn’t fall in November. It’s usually celebrated in late September or early October. But the spirit is strikingly similar.

Their Style: Parades, church services, and heaps of freshly harvested fruits and grains take center stage. Plus, there’s always room for beer because, well, it’s Germany.

5. South Korea: Chuseok 🌕

While it doesn’t happen in November, Chuseok is Korea’s version of Thanksgiving. This three-day holiday celebrates ancestors and the fall harvest, with families gathering to feast and pay respects to their heritage.

Celebration Style: Traditional foods like songpyeon (rice cakes) and plenty of dancing in traditional hanboks!

6. The Netherlands: Pilgrim Pride 🚢

In Leiden, the Netherlands, there’s a small Thanksgiving celebration in honor of the Pilgrims who lived there before sailing to America. Every November, a service is held to give thanks for their journey.

Their Style: It’s low-key, with a focus on history rather than feasting but still a heartfelt nod to gratitude.

7. Ghana: Homowo Festival 🌽

While not in November, Homowo is Ghana’s celebration of harvest and gratitude. Translating to "hooted at hunger," this festival honors the end of a famine centuries ago.

Celebration Style: Dancing, drumming, and feasting on kpokpoi (a cornmeal dish).

8. Vietnam: Tet Trung Thu 🌕

Known as the Mid-Autumn Festival, this Vietnamese celebration centers around family and gratitude. It’s not quite Thanksgiving but shares a similar vibe of coming together and giving thanks.

Their Style: Lanterns, mooncakes, and celebrations under a full moon.

Can We All Agree? Gratitude Is Universal

Thanksgiving around the world, whether it’s turkey in Canada, jollof rice in Liberia, or mooncakes in Vietnam, these traditions show that no matter where you’re from, the idea of pausing to give thanks transcends cultures.

What About You?

Do you know of any gratitude celebrations we missed? Or have you experienced Thanksgiving in another country? Share your stories in the comments and stay tuned! We’re exploring how Rockland County keeps gratitude alive this season! 🌍🦃

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