This is a genuine question that I have been asking myself every year since high school, does anyone actually like Thanksgiving? Most would say, “Yes! The food, the family, and the break are all important! I love fall!” But, the energy given for Thanksgiving is not the same as the energy given for other holidays. When people talk about Valentines, Christmas, and Halloween, there’s so much of the origin of the festivities mentioned. Cupid, Santa, and spooky characters/creatures are all mentioned when these beloved holidays come into the conversation. Things that mix tradition, origin, and modern culture to make the Holidays enjoyable, but that’s not the case for Thanksgiving.
People are not as interested in the food anymore. A lot of people like the consistency, but a lot of families have slowed down on cooking full feasts and have opted for simpler ways to celebrate. Pizza, Mexican food, and Caribbean food have slowly been favored over turkey and corn. Cooking and slaving over a stove is not something people look forward to doing nowadays, especially on holidays.
The history of Thanksgiving is still controversial. The true meaning of the “holiday” to a lot of people is all about Native American genocide, which does not sound like a reason to celebrate, even if it did lead to all of us being here and being able to discuss it. Personally, the reminder is enough to make me want to completely refurbish the day.
The holiday just isn’t celebrated. I have reason to believe the only general pleasure that comes from Thanksgiving is a break from work/school. In the past, people would give thanks and show gratitude; however, the vibe just does not support that kind of reflection anymore, in my opinion. Also, it’s not a holiday that I feel the need to go home for (home home). But maybe that is a me thing?
This isn’t to say the season isn’t wanted, because I love fall, but “Thanksgiving” in particular hasn’t gave in a while.
hcxo