In the United States, Thanksgiving is an ingrained tradition in society. However, in France, the party has never managed to establish itself. But then why? This is the “not so stupid question” answered the evening edition Today.
First things first: what is Thanksgiving? Thanksgiving is an American holiday celebrated every fourth Thursday in November. It originally marked the early settlers' gratitude for successful harvests, with a large meal of turkey, mashed sweet potatoes and, of course, pumpkin pie. In the United States, it's almost as important as Christmas!
The concept of Thanksgiving is based around the notion of thanks and gratitude, hence the use of the words “thanks” and “giving” which means “to give”.
Read also: These recipes will allow you to prepare a real Thanksgiving meal like in the United States
A historic celebration
But why has this celebration remained foreign to the French? First, there is the question of origins. Thanksgiving is a celebration deeply rooted in American history. It recalls the arrival of English colonists in 1620 in the United States, Puritans who fled England where they were oppressed because of their religion. They spent a difficult first winter in America and, thanks to the help of the indigenous peoples, produced a bountiful harvest the following fall. They then decide to have a feast to thank the Native Americans and show them their joy and immense gratitude.
As you can see, it’s a story specific to American culture. It is therefore normal that it does not find an echo in France. We just don't have that historical and emotional connection.
Family but not commercial
Other reasons can explain this phenomenon. The cultural and commercial context for example. In the case of Halloween, the holiday has Celtic origins and was imported from the United States in a largely commercial version. It is festive, visual, colorful, with disguises and candy. It’s a celebration that speaks especially to young people.
Thanksgiving, on the other hand, is a family holiday, focused on gratitude and gatherings at home. No costumes, no flashy decorations, no easy business for traders. In short, not very “salesy” in France.
A bridge with Black Friday
And then there is the date! Thanksgiving falls at the end of November, just before Christmas. In France, the end-of-year celebrations are already busy, between preparations for New Year's Eve and Advent which is beginning. Adding a foreign holiday just before doesn't really make sense or place in the calendar. Conversely, among Americans, it is a family holiday that allows them to get together since the majority of them benefit from four days off in a row thanks to Black Friday.
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