Thanksgiving is a special day. On that day, people usually give thanks for the harvest and the preceding year’s blessing. It is celebrated widely in the U.S., but several other cultures around the globe also have their unique harvest celebrations. Language Connections would like to introduce some of the traditions for you. However, some of the names might require translation services.
Thanksgiving – USA
Thanksgiving is one of the most vital holidays in the U.S. It has been officially celebrated in the U.S. since 1863, when President Abraham Lincoln declared the final Thursday of November a public holiday. However, it dates to an earlier celebration in 1621 called the ‘Commonwealth of Virginia’ when English settlers gave thanks to God for their first harvest in the New World. Turkey is the most common food on a U.S. dinner table. According to a recent study, 86% of Americans have a turkey as their main dish. Cranberries, corn, and root vegetables are also popular side dishes.
Erntedankfest In Germany And Translation Services
Erntedankfest, which means ‘harvest festival’ in German thanks to German translation services is a harvest celebration to thank God for the harvest. It’s held annually on the first Sunday of October, but festivities happen throughout the month. It’s not quite as family-oriented as Thanksgiving in North America. The festival features bustling parades, alluring alters decorated with locally sourced produces, and plenty of music and dancing. Additionally, people tend to eat out instead of having a sit-down meal at home.
Chung Ch’ui Festival In China And Translation Services
‘Chung Ch’ui,’ which translates to ‘the middle of autumn’ with the help of Chinese translation services, is a three-day harvest festival celebrated on the 15th day of the eighth month in the Chinese calendar. This year, the Chung Ch’ui Festival is celebrated on September 10th. Chinese people celebrate this day when the moon is usually at its fullest and brightest of the year. Thus, Chung Ch’ui is a day for family or dear ones to be together. Traditionally on this day, Chinese people welcome the harvest moon with moon cakes and oolong tea under the bright moonlight.
Ladainha – India
In India, especially in Goa, Thanksgiving is known as ‘Ladainha’ or ‘Ladin’, which means the ‘Litany of the Virgin Mary,’ This sacred day is celebrated by Christians at the end of November and serves as a way to give thanks to God. Preparations begin with purchasing grams of Branco wine, candles, and colored tinsel paper from the local market. An altar is constructed and decorated with flowers and greenery while believers sing and pray together, expressing appreciation for God.
Thanksgiving – Canada
The first Canadian Thanksgiving holiday was celebrated in 1578 when explorer Martin Frobisher gave thanks for a safe journey to Newfoundland and Labrador. Thanksgiving in Canada is now held on the second Monday in October, a month and a half earlier than in the U.S. (Canada, being farther north, has an earlier harvest season). Canadian Thanksgiving feasts are similar to those served in the United States, as are many accompanying traditions. However, Canadian Thanksgiving is not as big of a tradition as it Thanksgiving is in the U.S. For instance, many of the Black Friday traditions observed in the U.S. are not present in Canada.
Tell us about some of your Thanksgiving traditions in the comments. Happy Thanksgiving!
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