Thanksgiving Day: origin, meaning, and how it is celebrated
Entertainment 25/11/2025
Thanksgiving Day, also known as Día de Acción de Gracias, is one of the most important holidays in the United States. Although it is best known for its traditional turkey dinner, this holiday has a much deeper and historical background, where gratitude for our surroundings and family are united.
Thanksgiving Day is a celebration dedicated to giving thanks for the fruits of the year, abundance, and family togetherness. Its origin dates back to the arrival of the first European settlers in North America. It represents a time to stop, reflect, share, and give thanks to those we love most.
Thanksgiving Day is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November. During that week, cities like New York, Orlando, and Miami are filled with a festive atmosphere: decorated streets, stores with special offers, and family togetherness. It's the perfect way to experience the local culture firsthand.
The origin of Thanksgiving dates back to 1621, when English settlers who had arrived in Plymouth (present-day Massachusetts) shared a meal with the native Wampanoag people to give thanks for the autumn harvest.
This gesture of gratitude transformed into a tradition over the centuries. Two centuries later, Abraham Lincoln officially proclaimed the fourth Thursday of November as the National Day of Thanks, recognizing the bounty of the earth, gratitude, and the importance of community.
Turkey Day is the most well-known symbol of Thanksgiving. The traditional dinner revolves around a roast turkey, accompanied by mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, cornbread, vegetables, and pumpkin pie.
Interestingly, in the United States, the "turkey pardoning ceremony" is held, where the president pardons a turkey as a gesture of compassion and humor. This day officially marks the beginning of the Christmas season.
Beyond the dishes, the true spirit lies in the family gathering. During this time, it's common for people to travel long distances to be with their loved ones.
During dinner, each family member usually shares what they're thankful for. This keeps the essence of Thanksgiving alive, even among those who celebrate it outside the United States, providing a perfect opportunity to give thanks for life, health, and the people around us.
If you want to experience Thanksgiving in a special way this year, Park Royal Hotels & Resorts invites you to enjoy it in two of Florida's most charming destinations: Orlando and Miami.
At Park Royal Orlando, you can experience the warmth of the season in total comfort while exploring theme parks and local celebrations. At Park Royal Miami Beach, the tropical atmosphere combines with the festive spirit to offer a unique experience: themed dining, beachfront relaxation, and oceanfront relaxation.
Whether traveling as a couple, with family, or with friends, celebrating Thanksgiving in Florida is an experience that combines tradition, flavor, and joy.
What is Thanksgiving Day?
Thanksgiving Day is a celebration dedicated to giving thanks for the fruits of the year, abundance, and family togetherness. Its origin dates back to the arrival of the first European settlers in North America. It represents a time to stop, reflect, share, and give thanks to those we love most.
When is Thanksgiving Day in 2025?
Thanksgiving Day is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November. During that week, cities like New York, Orlando, and Miami are filled with a festive atmosphere: decorated streets, stores with special offers, and family togetherness. It's the perfect way to experience the local culture firsthand.
Why it's celebrated and its history
The origin of Thanksgiving dates back to 1621, when English settlers who had arrived in Plymouth (present-day Massachusetts) shared a meal with the native Wampanoag people to give thanks for the autumn harvest.
This gesture of gratitude transformed into a tradition over the centuries. Two centuries later, Abraham Lincoln officially proclaimed the fourth Thursday of November as the National Day of Thanks, recognizing the bounty of the earth, gratitude, and the importance of community.
Main Traditions
Turkey Day
Turkey Day is the most well-known symbol of Thanksgiving. The traditional dinner revolves around a roast turkey, accompanied by mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, cornbread, vegetables, and pumpkin pie.
Interestingly, in the United States, the "turkey pardoning ceremony" is held, where the president pardons a turkey as a gesture of compassion and humor. This day officially marks the beginning of the Christmas season.
Family gatherings and traditional dinner
Beyond the dishes, the true spirit lies in the family gathering. During this time, it's common for people to travel long distances to be with their loved ones.
During dinner, each family member usually shares what they're thankful for. This keeps the essence of Thanksgiving alive, even among those who celebrate it outside the United States, providing a perfect opportunity to give thanks for life, health, and the people around us.
Celebrate Thanksgiving in Orlando or Miami with Park Royal
If you want to experience Thanksgiving in a special way this year, Park Royal Hotels & Resorts invites you to enjoy it in two of Florida's most charming destinations: Orlando and Miami.
At Park Royal Orlando, you can experience the warmth of the season in total comfort while exploring theme parks and local celebrations. At Park Royal Miami Beach, the tropical atmosphere combines with the festive spirit to offer a unique experience: themed dining, beachfront relaxation, and oceanfront relaxation.
Whether traveling as a couple, with family, or with friends, celebrating Thanksgiving in Florida is an experience that combines tradition, flavor, and joy.
