Fall arrives on the University of Rhode Island campus and the brisk New England air greets the arrival of students and peers each bringing their own Thanksgiving traditions to share.
Modern Thanksgiving variations are welcomed by New Englanders, who respect tradition at the same time. Events like the COVID-19 pandemic have caused the traditional, big-family event to shift to smaller events, such as smaller social gatherings, the adoption of “friendsgiving” and virtual festivities.
A wide range of food choices mirror the evolving nature of the holiday. According to the Boston Globe , “Locals roast the winter squash and turn its orange flesh into hearty and interesting holiday dishes with just the right savory to sweet ratio. From soups to salads to stuffing, its potential has no limits.” This demonstrates how New Englanders are infusing a fresh spin on the classic winter squash dish, while preserving the dish’s fundamentals.
“My family hosts Thanksgiving. It has been a tradition every year. My mom’s side is usually the side that hosts,” Ryan Mckenna, a first-year communications student from Connecticut, said. “I am so excited this year to see my cousins since they moved far away. Especially being far away here at college, it’s great getting to see family,”
“Thanksgiving always brings me closer to my extended relatives and allows me to reconnect with them,” Abby Lepage, a first-year sports media major from Massachusetts, said. “This year I had my Thanksgiving meal with my Dad’s side of the family and had dessert with my mom’s side.”
Reflecting on the origins of the holiday, Thanksgiving was a holiday that was created here at the heart of New England in Plymouth, Massachusetts. Thanksgiving has a long history in America and dates back to the harvest feast that the pilgrims and Native Americans held in 1621.
Understanding and considering the historical background of this event is crucial, especially in light of the struggles that Native American communities have faced in the centuries following the feast. Thanksgiving has a complicated history that encompasses both unity and the harsh realities of colonial history.
It is crucial to celebrate Thanksgiving with tolerance and respect as we get together to express our gratitude. A more inclusive celebration is achieved through having candid discussions about the holiday’s past, acknowledging the diversity within Native American communities, and supporting programs that elevate indigenous voices. The voices of Native Americans are very important, especially during this celebration that started with the Wampanoag people and the pilgrims all the way back in 1621.
The occasion has developed into a diverse event that cuts across cultural divides nowadays. New England families embrace the historical tale and add their own distinct regional flavors to the celebrations.
Thanksgiving acts as a common bond amongst different communities throughout New England. Families with new immigrants contribute aspects of their own culture to the festivities, adding an array of traditions and tastes to the community’s structure.
“We combine classic Thanksgiving feast recipes with modern touches. It’s about making new memories with loved ones and keeping the spirit of the occasion alive,” Yanilisa Sanchez, a resident of Salem, New Hampshire, said.
The heart of New England beats faster in the excitement of Thanksgiving. Thanksgiving is a festival that unites the past and present in New England, from the historic streets of Providence to the seaside towns of Maine. Its core is found not only in the history books but also in the common experiences of families and communities.