THANKSGIVING IN COMPARISON TO ERNTEDANK IN GERMANY
Story of Thanksgiving
The word Thanksgiving is translated into Germans, "Erntedank". And that's exactly what it is; it is the North American form of the German Entedankfest. The origin of the festival dates back to the 16th century.
Thanksgiving in North America
In Canada, Thanksgiving is traditionally celebrated earlier in October than the US American Thanksgiving later in November. Thanksgiving or Thanksgiving Day is an annual Canadian holiday that takes place on the second Monday in October and celebrates the harvest and other blessings of the past year. Thanksgiving was officially celebrated as an annual holiday in Canada since November 6, 1879. The first time that the United States of America "celebrated" the harvest was on May 23, 1541, in what is now Texas. It was not until the then US President George Washington in 1798 that it became a holiday. President Abraham Lincoln (1789) set the festival on the last Thursday in the month of November, and in 1941 it finally became the valid today 4th Thursday.
Meaning and customs in North America
The holiday is one of the most important of the year in both countries, Canada and the US. The customs on this day are very diverse, even if it is basically and
first and foremost only two things: food and family! Typically, the entire family is invited to the holiday. Whether grandparents, children, aunts, uncles, cousins, all come together to eat the traditional dishes. Before the big meal, a traditional prayer service is offered in the family. But what is the typical Thanksgiving meal?
The Turkey
Probably the most "normal" of all the dishes is the turkey. It can be prepared in very different ways and enjoys a high reputation in North America. Various side dishes and desserts are served. Other originals from the festival include cranberry sauce, sweet potatoes, apple pie and vegetables such as pumpkin, peas, and corn.
Meaning of "Erntedank" in Germany
At the same date as in Canada, the Germans celebrate their Thanksgiving (Erntedankfest). During the celebration, which is usually held in a church but also regionally as a procession, crops, cereals, and fruit are decoratively arranged. In addition, there are other products designated as gifts of particular naturalness, such as flour, honey or wine. Thanksgiving is to be remembered with gratitude for the yield in agriculture and gardens - and also because it is not in the hands of man to have enough food. The crops are sometimes distributed after the festival to the needy in the community, in homeless shelters or charitable institutions.
Are you looking for Thanksgiving decor? Check out our simple Thanksgiving table decorations.
Wishing you all a HAPPY THANKSGIVING or ERNTEDANK
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