Edublog - Celebrating Thanksgiving: A Tradition of Thankfulness and Togetherness

Celebrating Thanksgiving

A Tradition of Thankfulness and Togetherness

Giving Thanks on Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is a special holiday in Canada. Families and friends come together to give thanks for the good things in their lives. It is celebrated on the second Monday in October during the autumn season. People enjoy spending time together, sharing a meal, and celebrating the harvest.

Canadian and American Thanksgiving: What Is Different?

Canadian Thanksgiving and American Thanksgiving are celebrated at different times because the harvest season happens earlier in Canada. In Canada, Thanksgiving is celebrated on the second Monday in October. Canada has a colder climate, so crops are usually ready to be gathered sooner in the year. In the United States, Thanksgiving is celebrated on the fourth Thursday in November because the warmer climate allows the growing season to last longer. As a result, the harvest is finished later, and Thanksgiving is celebrated later in the year. The different dates reflect the timing of the harvest in each country.

Decorating The Home For Thanksgiving

Before Thanksgiving, many Canadians decorate their homes with autumn colours such as orange, yellow, red, and brown. People often display pumpkins, gourds, and colourful leaves to celebrate the season. Some families also place a cornucopia filled with fruits and vegetables on their table. These decorations help create a warm and welcoming atmosphere and remind people of the harvest.

The Origins of Thanksgiving

Canadian Thanksgiving has a long history. The first Thanksgiving in Canada was celebrated in 1578 when explorer Martin Frobisher held a feast to give thanks for a safe journey. Later, French settlers celebrated successful harvests by sharing meals with family, friends, and neighbours. Over time, these traditions became the Thanksgiving holiday that Canadians celebrate today.

How Do We Celebrate Thanksgiving Today?

Today, Thanksgiving is a time for Canadians to appreciate the good things in their lives. People give thanks for their family, friends, health, and homes. Many families spend time together, enjoy special activities, and think about what they are thankful for. The holiday encourages people to show gratitude and enjoy time with loved ones.

A Thanksgiving Feast of Classic Dishes

On Thanksgiving, families gather to enjoy a special meal together. The feast often includes turkey, stuffing, gravy, mashed potatoes, roasted yams, green bean casserole, roasted potatoes, corn, and cranberry sauce. For dessert, many people enjoy apple pie or pumpkin pie. Sharing a meal is one of the most important Thanksgiving traditions.

What Are Facts & Opinions?

Knowing the difference between a fact and an opinion is very important. Understanding this helps you read critically, express your ideas clearly, and agree or disagree with people politely.

What is a Fact?

A fact is something that is true and can be proven with evidence, data, or scientific observation. Facts are objective; they do not depend on someone's personal feelings or preferences.

• Example: Thanksgiving is celebrated in Canada on the second Monday in October.

• How to test it: You can check a calendar or a government website to confirm that this is true.

  
  

What is an Opinion?

An opinion shows what a person believes, feels, or thinks about a topic. Opinions are subjective; they vary from person to person because everyone has different tastes, values, and experiences. An opinion cannot be proven true or false.

• Example: Pumpkin pie is the best Thanksgiving dessert.

• How to test it: You cannot prove this statement is true because different people enjoy different desserts. Some people may prefer pumpkin pie, while others may prefer apple pie or cheesecake.

10 Fascinating Facts About Thanksgiving

Canadian Thanksgiving is a holiday with a rich history and unique traditions. From its early harvest roots to national celebrations across the country, there are many interesting facts to learn about this autumn holiday. Here are some key facts about celebrating Thanksgiving in Canada:

1. Canada celebrates Thanksgiving on the second Monday of October.

2. It is an official holiday across most of Canada, except in some Atlantic provinces.

3. Canada's harvest happens earlier in autumn because of its northern location.

4. English explorer Martin Frobisher held Canada's first European Thanksgiving in 1578.

5. Roasted turkey with stuffing and gravy is the most popular main meal.

6. Spiced pumpkin pie is the traditional dessert served after dinner.

7. Most Canadians get a three-day long weekend to relax with family.

8. The holiday happens when maple leaves change to bright autumn colours.

9. The Canadian Football League plays traditional games on Thanksgiving Monday.

10. Parliament officially declared Thanksgiving a national holiday in 1957.

10 Interesting Opinions About Thanksgiving

Canadian Thanksgiving is a holiday that brings up many different thoughts and perspectives. From the delicious autumn food to family traditions and fall weather, people often have strong opinions about what makes this holiday special. Here are some common opinions about celebrating Thanksgiving in Canada:

1. October is a much better time for Thanksgiving than November because it is warmer.

2. Warm apple pie with vanilla ice cream tastes better than pumpkin pie.

3. Looking at colorful fall leaves is the most enjoyable part of the weekend.

4. Homemade cranberry sauce tastes far superior to canned sauce.

5. Cold turkey sandwiches on Tuesday taste even better than Sunday dinner.

6. Eating Thanksgiving dinner on Sunday is better than Monday.

7. Watching cozy movies at home is better than watching football on TV.

8. Creamy mashed potatoes with hot gravy are the best part of the meal.

9. Wearing a thick sweater to dinner makes the holiday feel extra special.

10. Thanksgiving is more relaxing than Christmas because there is no gift stress.

Exploring Popular Thanksgiving Dishes

There are many foods that families enjoy during Thanksgiving. Some dishes are made with meat, while others are made with vegetables or bread. Many people like warm side dishes that are rich and filling. Sweet desserts are also an important part of the meal. These foods are often prepared for family gatherings and help people celebrate the holiday together.

1. Turkey

2. Stuffing

3. Honey Glazed Ham

4. Mashed Potatoes

5. Roasted Potatoes

6. Sweet Potato Casserole

7. Green Bean Casserole

8. Bread Rolls

9. Butternut Squash Soup

10. Creamed Corn

11. Baked Macaroni and Cheese

12. Cranberry Sauce

13. Pumpkin Pie with Whipped Cream

14. Apple Pie with Vanilla Ice Cream

14 Popular Thanksgiving Dishes & Their Cooking Methods

Thanksgiving Dish #1

Turkey

Turkey Cooking Method:

Ingredients: 

• 1 whole turkey

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).

2. Rub the turkey with butter.

3. Sprinkle salt and pepper on the turkey.

4. Put the turkey in a roasting pan.

5. Roast for 3 to 4 hours.

6. Check that the meat is fully cooked.

7. Let the turkey rest for 15 minutes before serving.

Thanksgiving Dish #2

Stuffing

Stuffing Cooking Method:

Ingredients: 

• 6 cups bread cubes

• 1 onion, chopped

• 2 celery stalks, chopped

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 1 teaspoon poultry seasoning

• 1 cup chicken broth

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).

2. Cook the onion and celery in butter.

3. Mix the bread cubes and seasoning in a bowl.

4. Add the vegetables and broth.

5. Stir well.

6. Put the mixture in a baking dish.

7. Bake for 30 minutes.

Thanksgiving Dish #3

Honey Glazed Ham

Honey Glazed Ham Cooking Method:

Ingredients: 

• 1 cooked ham

• 1/2 cup honey

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).

2. Place the ham in a roasting pan.

3. Mix the honey and brown sugar.

4. Brush the mixture over the ham.

5. Bake for 1 hour.

6. Brush the glaze on the ham every 20 minutes.

7. Serve warm.

Thanksgiving Dish #4

Mashed Potatoes

Mashed Potatoes Cooking Method:

Ingredients: 

• 6 potatoes, peeled

• 1/4 cup butter

• 1/2 cup milk

• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Cut the potatoes into pieces.

2. Boil them for 20 minutes.

3. Drain the water.

4. Add butter and milk.

5. Mash the potatoes.

6. Add salt and pepper.

7. Serve hot.

Thanksgiving Dish #5

Roasted Potatoes

Roasted Potatoes Cooking Method:

Ingredients: 

• 6 potatoes

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1/2 teaspoon pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 200°C (400°F).

2. Cut the potatoes into small pieces.

3. Mix them with oil, salt, and pepper.

4. Spread them on a baking sheet.

5. Roast for 35 to 40 minutes.

6. Turn them once during cooking.

7. Serve hot.

Thanksgiving Dish #6

Sweet Potato Casserole

Sweet Potato Casserole Cooking Method:

Ingredients: 

• 4 sweet potatoes

• 2 tablespoons butter

• 2 tablespoons brown sugar

• 1 cup mini marshmallows

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).

2. Boil the sweet potatoes until soft.

3. Mash them with butter and brown sugar.

4. Put the mixture in a baking dish.

5. Add marshmallows on top.

6. Bake for 20 minutes.

7. Serve warm.

Thanksgiving Dish #7

Green Bean Casserole

Green Bean Casserole Cooking Method:

Ingredients: 

• 4 cups green beans

• 1 can cream of mushroom soup

• 1 cup crispy fried onions

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).

2. Mix the green beans and soup.

3. Put the mixture in a baking dish.

4. Add half of the fried onions.

5. Bake for 25 minutes.

6. Add the remaining onions.

7. Bake for 5 more minutes.

Thanksgiving Dish #8

Bread Rolls

Bread Rolls Cooking Method:

Ingredients: 

• 3 cups flour

• 1 tablespoon sugar

• 1 teaspoon salt

• 1 package yeast

• 1 cup warm water

Instructions:

1. Mix the flour, sugar, salt, and yeast.

2. Add warm water.

3. Make a soft dough.

4. Form small rolls.

5. Let them rise for 1 hour.

6. Bake at 190°C (375°F) for 15 to 20 minutes.

7. Serve warm.

Thanksgiving Dish #9

Butternut Squash Soup

Butternut Squash Soup Cooking Method:

Ingredients: 

• 1 butternut squash, peeled and cut

• 1 onion, chopped

• 4 cups vegetable broth

• 2 tablespoons cream

Instructions:

1. Cook the onion in a pot.

2. Add the squash and broth.

3. Boil for 20 minutes.

4. Cook until the squash is soft.

5. Blend the soup carefully.

6. Add the cream.

7. Serve hot.

Thanksgiving Dish #10

Creamed Corn

Creamed Corn Cooking Method:

Ingredients: 

• 4 cups corn

• 1 cup milk

• 2 tablespoons butter

• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Put the corn in a pot.

2. Add the milk and butter.

3. Cook on low heat for 10 minutes.

4. Stir often.

5. Add salt and pepper.

6. Cook for 5 more minutes.

7. Serve warm.

Thanksgiving Dish #11

Baked Macaroni and Cheese

Baked Macaroni and Cheese Cooking Method:

Ingredients: 

• 2 cups macaroni

• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

• 2 cups milk

• 2 tablespoons butter

Instructions:

1. Cook the macaroni.

2. Drain the water.

3. Melt the butter in a pot.

4. Add milk and cheese.

5. Stir until smooth.

6. Mix with the macaroni.

7. Bake at 180°C (350°F) for 20 minutes.

Thanksgiving Dish #12

Cranberry Sauce

Cranberry Sauce Cooking Method:

Ingredients: 

• 3 cups cranberries

• 1 cup sugar

• 1 cup water

Instructions:

1. Put the cranberries, sugar, and water in a pot.

2. Bring to a boil.

3. Stir often.

4. Cook for 10 minutes.

5. The cranberries will burst.

6. Let the sauce cool.

7. Serve cold.

Thanksgiving Dish #13

Pumpkin Pie with Whipped Cream

Pumpkin Pie with Whipped Cream Cooking Method:

Ingredients: 

• 1 pie crust

• 2 cups pumpkin purée

• 2 eggs

• 3/4 cup sugar

• 1 teaspoon pumpkin spice

• Whipped cream

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F).

2. Mix the pumpkin, eggs, sugar, and spice.

3. Pour the mixture into the pie crust.

4. Bake for 45 minutes.

5. Let the pie cool.

6. Add whipped cream on top.

7. Serve.

Thanksgiving Dish #14

Apple Pie with Vanilla Ice Cream

Apple Pie with Vanilla Ice Cream Cooking Method:

Ingredients: 

• 1 pie crust

• 5 apples, sliced

• 1/2 cup sugar

• 1 teaspoon cinnamon

• Vanilla ice cream

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 190°C (375°F).

2. Mix the apples, sugar, and cinnamon.

3. Put the mixture into the pie crust.

4. Bake for 45 minutes.

5. Let the pie cool slightly.

6. Cut into slices.

7. Serve with vanilla ice cream.

Concluding Thoughts: Celebrating Thankfulness and Togetherness on Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving is an important Canadian holiday that celebrates gratitude, family, and the harvest season. People decorate their homes, learn about the history of the holiday, spend time with loved ones, and enjoy a special meal together. Thanksgiving also reminds Canadians to appreciate the good things in their lives and to be thankful for the people around them.

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Click below for a lesson & activities on this topic:

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Click on the following resources.

Each resource includes a lesson with printable and digital activities:

The Importance Of Giving Thanks Lesson & Activities

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Thanksgiving - Lesson & Activities - Canadian Thanksgiving

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Double Pack - 2 Lessons - Canadian Thanksgiving & Giving Thanks

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Thanksgiving - Lesson & Activities - American Thanksgiving

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Double Pack - 2 Lessons - American Thanksgiving & Giving Thanks

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Written by: Nicole WT

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