The History of Thanksgiving: Fun Facts for Kids
Thanksgiving is one of America’s favorite holidays. It's a time for family, food, and giving thanks! Let’s take a trip back in time and discover some fun facts about the history of Thanksgiving. You're sure to learn something new!
The First Thanksgiving Was Over 400 Years Ago!
The very first Thanksgiving celebration happened way back in 1621, over 400 years ago! It took place in Plymouth, Massachusetts, where the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag people came together to share a feast after the Pilgrims’ first successful harvest.
Who Were The Pilgrims?
The Pilgrims were a group of settlers who traveled from England to North America on a ship called The Mayflower. They left England to find a new home where they could freely practice their religion.
Who Were The Wampanoag People?
The Wampanoag were a Native American Tribe who had lived in the area for thousands of years before the Pilgrims arrived. They were skilled hunters, fishers, and farmers who grew crops like corn, beans, and squash. The Wampanoag people taught the Pilgrims how to survive their first winter and grow food in their new land.
Turkey Might Not Have Been on the Menu
No one knows for sure if turkey was actually eaten at the first Thanksgiving! Historians think the meal may have included deer, fish, corn, beans, and squash, which were all foods the Wampanoag people taught the Pilgrims to grow, hunt, and catch.
The Feast Lasted for Three Days
Can you imagine celebrating Thanksgiving for three whole days? The first feast was a huge event filled with food, games, and good times all around.
Thanksgiving Didn’t Become a National Holiday Until 1863
It took more than 200 years for Thanksgiving to become an official U.S. holiday! President Abraham Lincoln made it official in 1863 during the Civil War as a way to bring the country together and encourage gratitude.
The First Thanksgiving Parade Was in 1924
The famous Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade began in New York City in 1924. It featured live animals from the Central Park Zoo instead of the giant balloons we're used to today. There were elephants, monkeys, camels, and even bears.
Football and Thanksgiving Go Way Back
Thanksgiving football is a classic tradition: one that started in the late 1800s! The first Thanksgiving Day football game was played in 1876, and today, millions of people tune in to watch their favorite teams while the turkey cooks.
Pumpkin Pie Has Been Around for Centuries
Pumpkins were an important food for Native Americans long before the first Thanksgiving. While early pies were baked inside the pumpkin itself, pumpkin pie as we know it today became popular in the 1800s, and it’s been a holiday favorite ever since!
Thanksgiving Is About More Than Just Food
At its heart, Thanksgiving is a time to show gratitude, spend time with family, and celebrate togetherness. Whether you’re making crafts, playing games, or sharing what you’re thankful for, that spirit of appreciation is what makes the day truly special.
Make New Memories This Thanksgiving
At Metropolis Resort, we love helping families make memories all year long. From cozy hotel stays to fun-filled adventures at Action City and Chaos Water Park, it’s the perfect place to celebrate together—no matter the season!
