Thanksgiving: A Look at Its History and Celebration

AUSTIN, Texas — Thanksgiving is just around the corner, set for Thursday, Nov. 27, 2025. While it may seem like a time for feasting and family gatherings, the history behind this holiday is as rich and varied as the dishes served on dinner tables.

Today, Thanksgiving is celebrated on the last Thursday in November. This tradition hasn’t been in place forever. The origins of Thanksgiving can be traced back to early ceremonies of gratitude among Indigenous peoples and explorers across North America.

One notable event occurred in May 1541 when Spanish explorer Francisco Vásquez de Coronado led a group of about 1,500 men through the Texas Panhandle. After facing harsh conditions, they held a thanksgiving ceremony in Palo Duro Canyon, expressing gratitude for their survival.

A historical marker was erected in 1959 at the site in Palo Duro State Park near Amarillo to honor Coronado’s expedition. This event took place about 79 years before the more commonly recognized Thanksgiving feast shared by the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag people in 1621.

Modern Thanksgiving celebrations typically involve large meals featuring turkey, pumpkin pie, and stuffing, creating a mix of flavors and family traditions. However, the roots of Thanksgiving may vary significantly depending on regional practices and historical significance. For instance, Canadian Thanksgiving occurs earlier in the year and traces its origins to the 1578 feast organized by explorer Martin Frobisher.

Canadian Thanksgiving is observed on the second Monday in October and includes unique traditions, including quieter celebrations focused more on family and gratitude rather than parades and shopping. The diverse ways in which Thanksgiving is celebrated testify to its significance in different cultures.

Despite variations, the unifying theme of Thanksgiving remains clear: a time for families to gather, reflect, and give thanks for their blessings. Whether in Texas or Canada, the heart of the holiday continues to be gratitude, connection, and shared meals.