Thanksgiving in the United States is often associated with family gatherings, bountiful feasts, and expressions of gratitude for blessings. While this holiday is uniquely American in its historical roots tied to the Pilgrims and Native Americans, the underlying concept of gratitude and giving thanks is universal.
Sometimes Americans mistakenly assume we are the only country to celebrate Thanksgiving. However, across the globe, other cultures and countries have celebrations with similar themes, though they differ in traditions, origins, and timing. This blog explores a few of these international holidays and offers guidance for cultivating a mindset of gratitude that extends beyond a single day.
Celebrations of Gratitude Across the Globe
Canada – Thanksgiving
Canada’s Thanksgiving, held on the second Monday in October, bears the closest resemblance to the U.S. holiday. It originated as a harvest festival and is deeply rooted in European traditions of giving thanks for a bountiful harvest. Though Canadian Thanksgiving involves similar customs—turkey dinners, pumpkin pie, and family gatherings—it is less commercialized and often emphasizes time spent with loved ones.
Germany – Erntedankfest
Erntedankfest, or the "Harvest Thanksgiving Festival," is a German celebration held in late September or early October across different regions. Unlike the American holiday, this is more of a religious observance, with church services and parades focused on thanking God for the harvest. The festival often includes a communal meal but lacks the elaborate family-oriented focus seen in the U.S.
Japan – Labor Thanksgiving Day
In Japan, "Kinrō Kansha no Hi," celebrated on November 23, is a public holiday expressing gratitude for workers and their contributions. Though rooted in ancient harvest festivals, modern Labor Thanksgiving Day focuses on labor rights, productivity, and appreciation for societal contributions rather than agricultural abundance. Kinrō Kansha no Hi is actually a modern name for an ancient ritual called Niinamesai (Harvest Festival).
Liberia – Thanksgiving
Liberia, a West African nation founded by freed American slaves, celebrates Thanksgiving on the first Thursday of November. Though it draws inspiration from the American tradition, the Liberian holiday features its own unique foods, such as spicy roasted chicken and cassava, and highlights themes of community and resilience.
South Korea – Chuseok
Chuseok, celebrated in the fall, is a Korean harvest festival dedicated to honoring ancestors and giving thanks for a successful harvest. Families gather to share a traditional meal, visit ancestral graves, and exchange gifts. While it shares the gratitude theme, Chuseok emphasizes ancestry and rituals more than the U.S. Thanksgiving.
Thanksgiving began as a day of giving thanks for the blessings of the harvest and of the preceding year. Various similarly named harvest festival holidays occur throughout the world during autumn. Although Thanksgiving has historical roots in religious and cultural traditions, it has long been celebrated as a secular holiday as well.
Living a Life of Gratitude Beyond Thanksgiving
While these international celebrations highlight the diversity in how gratitude is expressed, true thanksgiving is not confined to a single day. Adopting a year-round mindset of gratitude can transform your perspective and enhance personal and professional relationships. Here are some practical ways to live a life of gratitude:
Start a Gratitude Journal: Spend a few minutes each day noting things for which you’re grateful. Whether it’s a kind gesture, a personal achievement, or a simple moment of peace, writing these down fosters positivity and mindfulness.
Practice Mindful Gratitude: Acknowledge the small, everyday blessings that often go unnoticed—a stranger’s smile, a delicious meal, or the beauty of nature. Being present enhances your appreciation for life’s simplicity.
Express Appreciation Regularly: Take time to thank those around you—family, colleagues, friends, or even strangers. A sincere “thank you” can strengthen connections and uplift others.
Give Back: Acts of kindness, volunteering, or supporting a cause can deepen your sense of gratitude by allowing you to make a meaningful difference in the lives of others.
Focus on Positivity During Challenges: Gratitude is most powerful during difficult times. Reflect on the lessons learned or the support you’ve received in adversity, and recognize growth opportunities.
Celebrate Small Wins: Don’t wait for major milestones to feel grateful. Acknowledge the small victories that contribute to your journey.
Closing Thoughts
Thanksgiving, in its many forms around the world, reminds us of the universal human desire to reflect on life’s blessings and share joy with others. However, gratitude should not be an occasional act but a daily practice. By cultivating a mindset of gratitude throughout the year, we can create richer, more meaningful lives and inspire others to do the same.
I will celebrate this holiday reflecting on the many things for which I'm grateful and I hope you will take a moment to do so as well. I would also like to express my profound gratitude to you, my readers, that join me each day to learn a little, be inspired and hopefully get motivated to keep learning and growing! Happy Thanksgiving!
Supporting Quotes:
“Gratitude turns what we have into enough.” – Melody Beattie, Author
“When we give cheerfully and accept gratefully, everyone is blessed.” – Maya Angelou, Poet and Activist
“Gratitude is not only the greatest of virtues but the parent of all others.” – Cicero, Roman Philosopher
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