What is Thanksgiving Day celebrated and why is it not celebrated in Colombia

Thanksgiving Day , known as " Thanksgiving Day " in English, is a holiday traditionally celebrated in the United States and Canada. In the United States, it is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November, while in Canada it is celebrated on the second Monday of October. This festivity has its roots in the tradition of giving thanks for the blessings received during the year, especially for the harvests.

The origin of Thanksgiving Day in the United States dates back to the year 1621, when the English colonists known as the " Pilgrims " celebrated a great dinner to give thanks for a good harvest. They shared this banquet with the Native Americans of the Wampanoag tribe, who had provided aid and agricultural teachings to the settlers. Over the years, Thanksgiving has become a national holiday in the United States. In addition to giving thanks for the harvest, it is celebrated as a day to gather with family and friends, share a hearty meal, and express gratitude for all the blessings received. The traditional Thanksgiving entrée is roast turkey, accompanied by mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, stuffing, vegetables, and other typical foods.

During this day, many families also participate in traditions such as watching the Macy 's Thanksgiving parade in New York, playing football, doing charity work and sharing moments of gratitude around the dinner table. In addition, homes are decorated with autumnal motifs and centerpieces are created with elements such as pumpkins, corn and dry leaves.

Historical and cultural context

The lack of celebration of Thanksgiving in Colombia can be partly attributed to the historical and cultural context of the country. Unlike the United States , Colombia does not have a Puritan colonizing past or a direct connection to the pilgrims who celebrated the first Thanksgiving in Plymouth in 1621. Colombia's colonial history was marked by Spanish influence and Catholic traditions. .

Religion also plays an important role in the lack of celebration of Thanksgiving in Colombia. Although Colombia is a predominantly Catholic country, religious festivities and celebrations are centered around events such as Holy Week, Christmas, and All Saints' Day. These Catholic festivities have a greater relevance and tradition in Colombian culture.

Colombia is a diverse country with a large number of regional festivities and local traditions embedded in its culture. Festivities such as the Barranquilla Carnival, the Cali Fair and the Vallenata Legend Festival are examples of popular and traditional celebrations that occupy an important place in the country's festive calendar. These regional festivities tend to have a more deeply rooted cultural and social meaning in the population. In addition to regional festivities, Colombia has other celebrations and commemorative dates that occupy a central place in the culture and festive calendar of the country. For example, Colombian Independence Day on July 20 and Columbus Day on October 12 are significant dates that are celebrated more prominently in the country.

Although Thanksgiving is not a traditional holiday in Colombia, globalization and foreign cultural influence have led to increased awareness and familiarity with this celebration. Some expatriate communities in Colombia, especially those with close ties to the United States, may celebrate Thanksgiving in ways that are closer to American traditions.