EXPLAINER: What you need to know about Thaksgiving Day

Thanksgiving Day, traditionally an American holiday, has transformed into a global occasion symbolizing gratitude, unity, and sharing.

While its roots lie in North America, the holiday’s universal themes resonate deeply across cultures, including Kenya, where it is increasingly embraced as a moment to reflect, give back, and celebrate life’s blessings.

The values it represents are like gratitude, generosity and togetherness are universal and align closely with Kenyan culture and traditions.

It is a day to reflect upon what we have to be grateful for. People also take some time to write a list of what they are thankful for, including even the smallest things. 

History

The origins of Thanksgiving Day trace back to 1621 in Massachusetts, where Pilgrims and the Wampanoag people came together to celebrate a successful harvest.

Over time, this harvest feast became a symbol of gratitude and unity, culminating in President Abraham Lincoln declaring it a national holiday in 1863.

Today, Thanksgiving is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November in the United States, while countries like Canada, Liberia, and Brazil have their variations.

According to the National Center for Families, learning the history of the 'Thanksgiving turkey' is a bit of a mystery. Nobody knows exactly how this particular bird earned a place of honour at the table each November, but historians have a few different theories.

Some historians say the early settlers were inspired by the queen's actions and roasted a turkey instead of a goose.

The wild turkey is a native bird of North America. As a result, Benjamin Franklin claimed this made the turkey a more suitable national bird for the United States than the bald eagle.

Gaining Popularity 

Although Thanksgiving is not officially recognized in Kenya, its themes align with local values of gratitude, community, and generosity.

Over the years, globalization and the Kenyan diaspora have contributed to its growing significance, particularly in urban centres.

In Kenya, Thanksgiving celebrations are a fusion of traditional practices and Western influences, blending Kenyan cultural richness with global customs.

Families, organizations, and communities mark the day in various ways, each adding a unique Kenyan flavour to the global tradition.

 Community and Family Celebrations

Food plays a central role in Thanksgiving celebrations in Kenya.

Families and friends gather to share meals that often include Kenyan staples like nyama choma (roasted meat), ugali, and vegetable stews.

In urban settings, turkey, pumpkin pie, and other traditional Western dishes might grace the table, reflecting a blend of culinary traditions.

Thanksgiving has also become a time for acts of kindness.

Many Kenyans celebrate by visiting orphanages, donating to charities, or organizing food drives.

The spirit of harambee (pulling together) is often invoked, reinforcing communal support and solidarity.

Radio Africa Group’s Thanksgiving

At Radio Africa Group, Thanksgiving was marked by a vibrant celebration.

Group Editorial Director Paul Ilado and other officials led the celebration with the carving of a turkey and cutting pumpkin cheesecake.

“This day is about coming together and appreciating the journey we’ve taken,” Ilado said.

The event brought together employees from various departments, who shared heartfelt stories of gratitude.

Traditional Thanksgiving elements such as turkey were paired with Kenyan dishes, showcasing the fusion of cultures.

Why it matters

Thanksgiving is particularly meaningful in the context of today’s challenges—economic uncertainties, social divisions, and global crises. It offers a moment to pause, appreciate life’s blessings, and foster unity.

For Kenyans, Thanksgiving resonates deeply with traditional harvest festivals, where music, dance, and storytelling celebrate the abundance of nature. It is also an opportunity to highlight local heroes and inspire collective action.

Thanksgiving’s growing popularity in Kenya is not merely a reflection of Western influence but a testament to the universal power of gratitude and community.

As more Kenyans adopt the holiday, they infuse it with their unique cultural practices, making it a blend of local and global traditions.

Whether through a shared meal, a heartfelt prayer, or an act of kindness, Thanksgiving in Kenya is a call to pause, reflect, and reconnect.

It is a reminder that gratitude transcends borders and that unity and generosity are timeless values.

As we celebrate this Thanksgiving, let us carry forward its message of gratitude and share it with those around us.

Happy Thanksgiving Day!