National Turkey Day

Cooked turkey centerpiece surrounded by smiling family members, autumn-themed decor, cozy dining room setting.. — National turkey day illustration

Gobble, gobble! It's time to talk turkey, my friends! National Turkey Day is a feast-filled occasion that brings loved ones together to celebrate delicious food, sports, and the spirit of gratitude.

When is Turkey Day?

It's national turkey day on the 26th November.

History of National Turkey Day

Every year on National Turkey Day, people across the country gather around the dining table to indulge in a scrumptious turkey feast. But have you ever wondered how this tasty tradition came to be?

The origins of National Turkey Day can't be traced back to some ancient internet history, but rather to America's love affair with this magnificent bird. The turkey has been a centerpiece of Thanksgiving celebrations for hundreds of years. In fact, it's believed that the first Thanksgiving feast shared by the Pilgrims and Native Americans in 1621 included a heaping serving of turkey.

Over the years, as more and more families added turkey to their Thanksgiving spread, the popularity of this delectable bird grew. Its rich flavor and succulent meat made it the go-to choice for a celebratory meal.

Fast forward to the internet age, and now we have National Turkey Day. It's a day dedicated to giving thanks, enjoying a mouthwatering turkey meal, and spending quality time with loved ones.

How to Celebrate National Turkey Day

Celebrating National Turkey Day is as easy as pie (or should I say, as easy as turkey?)! Here are a few ideas to get your gobble on:

Host a turkey feast with all the fixings and invite your loved ones. It's a day for sharing good food and making lasting memories together.
Participate in a Turkey Trot, a fun run or walk held on Thanksgiving morning. It's a great way to burn some calories before indulging in all that delicious food.
Donate to a local food bank or volunteer at a shelter. Spread the joy of Thanksgiving by helping those in need.

So, whether you're enjoying a second helping of turkey, tossing a football with friends, or snuggling up on the couch for a post-meal nap, National Turkey Day is all about savoring the moment and giving thanks.

History behind the term 'Turkey'

1523

The Introduction of the Word 'Turkey'

The term 'turkey' was first introduced to English language in 1523. It is derived from the name 'Turkey', which was once used to describe the region now known as Turkey. At the time, Turkish merchants were importing large quantities of a popular bird, which Europeans mistakenly believed to be from the same region. The name 'turkey' stuck and became associated with this particular bird.

1555

Turkey Enters European Cuisine

In 1555, turkey meat made its way into European cuisine. The bird was introduced to Europe by Spanish explorers who brought it back from the Americas. Its succulent flavor and tender meat quickly gained popularity, and turkey became a common dish on European dining tables.

1621

Turkey at the First Thanksgiving

The turkey played a significant role in the first Thanksgiving feast celebrated by the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag Indians in 1621. The Pilgrims had successfully harvested a bountiful crop, and to celebrate their good fortune, they invited the Wampanoag people for a feast. It is believed that wild turkeys were among the various meats served during this historic event.

1863

Turkey Becomes a Thanksgiving Tradition

President Abraham Lincoln declared Thanksgiving a national holiday in 1863, and turkey became synonymous with this annual celebration. Lincoln's proclamation solidified the association between turkey and Thanksgiving, and it has remained a beloved tradition ever since.

1939

The Thanksgiving Turkey Pardon Tradition Begins

In 1939, President Franklin D. Roosevelt initiated the Thanksgiving turkey pardon tradition. It is said that Roosevelt, upon receiving a live turkey as a gift, decided to spare the bird and sent it back to the farm where it came from. Since then, each subsequent President of the United States has continued this light-hearted tradition, symbolizing mercy and compassion.