Festive Traditions and Folklore

By Thanksgiving 1944 Americans were harvesting their Victory Gardens in anticipation of a bountiful holiday. New-reels projected the image of a wartime country where canned goods were being rationed and Americans were called upon to do their part at home.

Economic hard-ship lead to agricultural growth and 20 million people planted gardens, which produced 40% of the nation’s food. For many gardening became a family event or community activity bringing people together during this tumultuous era. Certainly, a time to give thanks for what one had and appreciate time spent with loved ones.

Most of this holiday's traditions center around food and football! Rather, families have developed their own traditions to stave off their appetites as the smell of turkey fills the house. As the bird is being carved, everyone comes together to feast and to fill their hearts with thanks.