In a general sense, on this day they thank life for all the good things that Americans have, and more specifically, for this year's big harvest. There is no such holiday in Russia. There is something similar, namely Harvest Day. But the reason for such a geographical spread of this holiday becomes clear, or look into history.

When did they start celebrating Thanksgiving?

In the distant XVII century, the first colonizers of America, who sailed there on the famous ship, went through very difficult times. After the winter, less than half of the population remained from the settlers, and the survivors, along with the Indians, offered words of gratitude on this day.

In honor of this holiday, the settlers together with the Indians jointly arranged a feast, eating 4 turkeys caught. Since then, turkey has been a traditional meal during the festive feast on this day. This holiday can also be celebrated by Russian tourists, staying with an American family. Although our compatriot would rather book a weekend tour. But let's return to the traditions of the Americans.

Another mandatory attribute of the Thanksgiving feast is pumpkin pie. After all, it is he who shows that this year's harvest really was, and not bad. The day of the holiday itself has been repeatedly postponed during its existence, but it was finally approved in 1941 and is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November.

Another tradition is the gathering of the family at a common festive table and, as a rule, in the house of the elder of the clan. And relatives are coming from all over the country. These days, airports are crowded and traffic jams appear on the roads — so everyone is trying to catch up to the family table. There are also parades everywhere, in which everyone and huge inflated characters of American cartoons take part. This is a holiday of forgiveness of all grievances, wishes of happiness and thanksgiving to God that you are alive, healthy and full.