Unique Family Traditions for Thanksgiving
As Thanksgiving approaches, many families eagerly anticipate the joyous tradition of coming together to give thanks. While the classic turkey feast and pumpkin pie are staples, some families have embraced unique Thanksgiving Day traditions that go beyond the ordinary, placing a special emphasis on spending quality time as a family and acknowledging God’s goodness in their lives.
3 Unique Family Traditions for Thanksgiving:
To help show their immense gratitude for all of the blessings they have been given, families will often attend Mass together.
This is a great example for children to see that all of their joys (and even their sufferings) are a great gift from God. After the Mass has ended, the family could stay for just a few minutes extra in thanksgiving for having the opportunity to go!
Another unique tradition gaining popularity is the “Gratitude Jar.”
Each family member writes down what they are thankful for on a slip of paper and places it in the jar throughout the day leading up to dinner. After the meal, the family gathers to read these notes aloud, creating a tapestry of gratitude that celebrates the unique blessings each member holds dear.
Many families also make it a priority to give back to their communities on Thanksgiving.
Volunteering at local shelters, donating to food banks, or organizing charity events have become meaningful ways for families to express their gratitude by helping those less fortunate.
In the midst of these traditions, families can remember how blessed we are to have each other and to keep in our prayers those who may not have family close. Thanksgiving Day is a great celebration in light of our American History, but it is also a break in the everyday to express gratitude to God and to others.