Thanksgiving holds a cherished place in our hearts—an occasion marked by gratitude, reflection, and unity. As families come together around tables adorned with delectable dishes and cherished company, the essence of this beloved holiday, rich in legacy and significance, is honored. It's a time that resonates across the nation, prompting us to gather, revel, and express profound gratitude for life's abundant blessings. At Bel Furniture, we recognize the significance of this time-honored tradition and the importance of creating a welcoming space for families to come together. In this blog, we delve into the origins, meaning, and cherished traditions of Thanksgiving, offering insights into how families in the United States celebrate this special day. 

The Origins of Thanksgiving

The roots of Thanksgiving can be traced back to the early 17th century when a group of English Pilgrims, seeking religious freedom, set sail on the Mayflower in 1620. After a challenging journey, they arrived in Plymouth, Massachusetts, in the winter of the same year. Faced with harsh conditions and unfamiliar terrain, the Pilgrims struggled to survive.

The Wampanoag Native Americans played a crucial role in the survival of the Pilgrims. In the fall of 1621, the Wampanoag tribe shared their knowledge of farming, hunting, and fishing, helping the Pilgrims cultivate crops and secure food sources. To express their gratitude for the assistance, the Pilgrims and Wampanoag came together for a three-day feast, which is often considered the first Thanksgiving. This celebration marked a symbol of unity, friendship, and the spirit of giving thanks for the bountiful harvest.

When Thanksgiving Became a National Holiday

Thanksgiving Day wasn't officially recognized as a holiday until Northerners gained prominence in the federal government. Amidst sectional tensions in the mid-19th century, Sarah Josepha Hale, the editor of the widely-read Godey’s Lady’s Book, passionately advocated for a national Thanksgiving Day to foster unity. 
On October 3, 1863, President Abraham Lincoln heeded Hale's request and proclaimed Thanksgiving a national holiday. He declared that the fourth Thursday of November would be a day of "Thanksgiving and Praise to our beneficent Father who dwelleth in the Heavens." Since then, Thanksgiving has been celebrated annually on the fourth Thursday in November in the United States. Lincoln's proclamation played a crucial role in establishing Thanksgiving as a nationally recognized holiday, and it has since become a time for Americans to gather with family and friends to express gratitude for the blessings in their lives. (Ref: https://www.britannica.com/topic/Thanksgiving-Day)

The Meaning of Thanksgiving

As we gear up for Thanksgiving, set to grace us on the fourth Thursday of November, it's not just a prelude to Black Friday – it's a heartfelt moment for people nationwide to hit pause, count blessings, and revel in life's abundance. Thanksgiving isn't just about the delicious feasts; it's a time-honored tradition that weaves together gratitude, harvest celebrations, family togetherness, community unity, and cherished rituals. Imagine gathering around tables laden with mouthwatering dishes, not just for the love of food but for reflecting on life's positives and cultivating a genuine sense of appreciation. From its historical roots in harvest festivals to its contemporary embrace of family reunions, Thanksgiving has evolved into a celebration that embodies abundance, hard work, and the sheer joy of togetherness. It's more than a holiday; it's a beautiful mosaic of gratitude, tradition, and the warmth of shared moments. So, as Thanksgiving approaches, let's cherish these moments, surrounded by loved ones and the comforting embrace of cherished traditions. And for the perfect dining sets to make your Thanksgiving gathering extra special, check out the fantastic dining room sets at Bel Furniture!

Why Do We Eat Turkey on Thanksgiving?

Ever wondered why turkey takes the spotlight on our Thanksgiving tables? Well, let's delve into the delicious history of this tradition!

Back in 1621, during the first Thanksgiving feast, turkeys, among other wild game, were likely part of the spread. Fast forward to the 19th century, and roast turkey became the star of the show for a few good reasons. It was not only readily available and affordable, but its generous size made it perfect for feeding the masses at large gatherings. Imagine the warmth of family feasts with a beautifully roasted turkey at the center.

As time marched on, cultural representations in literature and media further solidified the iconic image of a Thanksgiving feast featuring a golden-brown, succulent turkey. Beyond its deliciousness, the turkey took on a symbolic role, becoming a representation of abundance and prosperity—fitting themes for a holiday centered around gratitude and thankfulness.

So, here we are today, carrying on the tradition with our Thanksgiving turkey feasts, not just as a culinary choice but as a cultural norm. The turkey has become a shared symbol of plenty and togetherness, making our Thanksgiving tables not only laden with delectable dishes but also rich with history and tradition.

Set the Perfect Dining Table for Thanksgiving Day with Bel Furniture

As we delve into the rich history and cultural significance behind the tradition of serving turkey on Thanksgiving, let's not forget the crucial role furniture plays in creating the perfect setting for these festive gatherings. Bel Furniture understands the importance of a welcoming and comfortable space for your Thanksgiving feast. Imagine the joy of sharing the symbolic turkey dinner with your loved ones around a beautifully crafted dining table from Bel Furniture. Whether your style leans towards contemporary or traditional design, Bel Furniture offers a diverse range of dining sets to elevate your Thanksgiving experience. Explore our collection, ranging from 5-piece to 9-piece sets, ensuring there's a perfect fit for every family size. Consider the extended dining tables for those who love hosting larger gatherings, adding flexibility to your celebrations. This Thanksgiving, let Bel Furniture be your partner in creating memorable moments of abundance, prosperity, and togetherness around the dinner table

Choose from 5-piece to 9-piece dining sets, ensuring that you find the perfect fit for your family size and entertaining needs.

For those who love hosting large gatherings, we highly recommend our extended dining tables. With the flexibility to accommodate more guests, these tables are ideal for making Thanksgiving and other festivities truly special.

Bel Furniture is deeply thankful for the chance to be part of your journey in creating homes that reflect your style, comfort, and happiness. From our family to yours, warm wishes for a joyful and blessed Thanksgiving. Visit Bel Furniture website or any of our 17 stores in the Houston, Pasadena, Corpus Chriti, Sugarland to discover best furniture deals on this holiday that embody style, comfort, and durability.