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Thanksgiving in Provence

Discover the origin of this festival and how it takes place in Provence.

Thanksgiving in Provence
The family of Virginie In Provence

I. Thanksgiving in Provence: what is Thanksgiving?


Mainly celebrated in the United States and Canada, the first celebration of Thanksgiving dates back to 1621 when English settlers, known as Pilgrims, and Wampanoag Native Americans shared a meal to celebrate their first successful harvest in North America. They then held a banquet to express their gratitude for the help and mutual support that allowed them to overcome the challenges of new life in this country.


II. Thanksgiving in Provence: when is Thanksgiving celebrated?


In the United States, Thanksgiving is celebrated on the fourth Thursday in November. As for Canada, they celebrate Thanksgiving on the second Monday of October.


III. Thanksgiving in Provence : traditions


When we hear about Thanksgiving, we often think of the big family meal with a huge turkey. Each family gets together and shares a good meal with typical dishes like: mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, vegetables, apple and pumpkin pies…


Thanksgiving in Provence
Thanksgiving dinner

IV. Thanksgiving in Provence : a parade for Thanksgiving?


In the United States, Thanksgiving is marked by big parades in some major cities, including the famous Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York.


V. Thanksgiving in Provence: what is the spirit of Thanksgiving?


Thanksgiving is above all a holiday of gratitude, where people express their gratitude for the good things in life: family, friends, health and opportunities…


Thanksgiving is a cultural holiday, not a religious one. It is a joyful time when people come together to celebrate, share warm moments and express their gratitude.


V. Thanksgiving in Provence: how is it?


Although Thanksgiving is an American holiday, celebrating this holiday in Provence can be a good experience. An opportunity to discover the traditions of another country and share a good time with family or friends.


Here are some ideas to celebrate Thanksgiving in Provence:


Find local products: Provence is famous for its cuisine, so enjoy the region by looking for fresh and local ingredients to prepare your meal


Organize a Thanksgiving meal: prepare a traditional Thanksgiving meal (turkey, roasted vegetables, potatoes, pumpkin puree and fruit pies, etc.)


Organize a picnic: if you prefer a more casual approach, prepare a picnic with Provencal specialties and typical Thanksgiving dishes


Even though Thanksgiving is an American holiday, it is still possible to create a moment of sharing and conviviality by exploring the region during this special time.


If you come to my place for an immersion stay in Provence, I will make you discover the different aspects of Provence: the landscapes and the scents, but also the culture, the gastronomy... while helping you to improve your French. See you soon in Provence!


Virginie In Provence


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