Do People in England and Ireland Celebrate Thanksgiving?

Thanksgiving, a holiday traditionally celebrated in the United States, is often a cause for debate in other parts of the world, particularly in England and Ireland. The reasons for its celebration in these countries, or the absence thereof, are rooted in cultural, historical, and economic factors.

What is Thanksgiving?

Thanksgiving is a holiday primarily celebrated in the United States and Canada, commemorating the Pilgrims' harvest festivities. The United States celebrates it on the fourth Thursday of November, while Canada's celebration takes place on the second Monday of October. The roots of Thanksgiving date back to 1621, when Plymouth colonists and Wampanoag Indians shared a harvest feast to give thanks for a bountiful harvest.

Why Wouldn't People in England and Ireland Celebrate an American Holiday?

The British perspective on Thanksgiving usually revolves around the idea that, as a nation known for taking what it wants, there is no need to give thanks for what is already theirs. British culture emphasizes self-reliance and sometimes a sense of superiority, which can be interpreted as giving thanks being unnecessary.

Commonwealth Day and Celebrations in the Netherlands

Another facet of the cultural debate involves Commonwealth Day in the UK, celebrated annually on the second Monday of March. This holiday is a reminder of the historical and cultural ties between the United Kingdom, its former colonies, and the Commonwealth countries. While some may find it redundant, others see it as a way to honor the shared history and values of the association.

In the Netherlands, there is a unique connection to Thanksgiving. Every year, the town of Leiden performs a church ceremony in memory of the Pilgrims who left Leiden to travel to America. This ceremony, held on the morning of American Thanksgiving, is a significant event that bridges the gap between the Dutch and American histories.

Erntedankfest: A German Celebration

Germans celebrate a similar holiday called Erntedankfest, which translates to 'Harvest Thanksgiving' in English. This Christian harvest celebration is marked by a substantial dinner, much like the American Thanksgiving meal. It is celebrated on the first Sunday in October, highlighting the agricultural significance of the holiday.

Is There No Thanksgiving in the UK?

It is true that Thanksgiving as traditionally celebrated by Americans is not widely recognized in the United Kingdom. The British tend to have their own unique celebrations during the year, such as Christmas, which dominates the winter months. Small businesses manage to generate about 80% of their annual profits during the Christmas season. Other holidays like Halloween, which includes trick-or-treating, and various 'Mother's Day' and 'Father's Day'-type celebrations have become popular, but they are not as fixed as Thanksgiving.

Conclusion

Whether or not people in England and Ireland celebrate Thanksgiving is a matter of cultural and historical context. While there are no specific traditions tied to Thanksgiving in the UK, other countries have incorporated their own versions of harvest celebrations, such as Erntedankfest in Germany and the Leiden ceremony in the Netherlands. These celebrations highlight the diverse ways in which countries come together to express gratitude and celebrate their heritage.