Thanksgiving in this country has a bit of an urban legend past with a Pilgrim colony being saved by Indians sharing food with them hence a shared feast and thanks.
It has become a traditional family holiday where everyone get's together - including the extended family - for a large dinner normally with a large turkey or ham or both, along with mashed potatoes and gravy and stuffing for the turkey and pumpkin pie followed by days of turkey left overs.
It also is associated with football - family games outside along with several games on TV etc.
Basically, a good reason to get the family together, argue and eat a ridiculous amount of food etc. Buried in there is a message as well - thanks for our blessings - family, health, food etc. Many also spend the day giving as well by donating time at food kitchens etc.
Finally, it being America it has now morphed with shopping and 'Black Friday' which starts about 10:00 PM that evening so many families have a nice day a big dinner and then portions of them depart to shop with others into the wee hours of the morning looking for bargains.
marks five minute history lesson.
mark