Thanksgiving arrives next week filling the plates of Americans across the U.S. and students within the Marist community. Yet, despite the common stereotypes of a large family gathering, an unbelievable amount of food, college football games, and ‘that one uncle’ talking about politics, many will not share this traditional trope. Instead, celebrations are shifting as people reflect on the purpose of this holiday.
According to a USA Today survey conducted in 2023, nearly 11% of Americans will be celebrating Thanksgiving at a friend’s house, instead of being with family. The reason for this shift is unclear, but students at Marist High School have their own opinions on the matter.
“I know that some of my friends are doing a ‘Friendsgiving’,” said junior Kevin Maher. “Personally I enjoy having Thanksgiving with my family, but I think [others like] having a more stress-free and a more fun Thanksgiving.”
Another difference seems to be in the food preparation. Instead of just having the classic homemade turkey, ham, and mashed potato dinner, families seem to be trying catering and pre-made meals for Thanksgiving dinner.
“My family buys the pre-cooked turkey dinner from Marianos,” said Sandra Froylan, mother to a Marist student. “We make our own sides, but the turkey is already cooked and it simply saves a lot of time and hassle.”
For some, Thanksgiving has become an unpopular holiday and traditions play less of a role.
“My family is not a fan of Thanksgiving. Usually we try to avoid it and simply stick to a regular dinner,” said junior Alfredo Ibarra, “We don’t like the amount of planning and stress people have for just a simple dinner.”
Despite some scaled-back celebrations, Thanksgiving is celebrated and enjoyed by most American families. Yet, it consistently only ranks the No.2 slot behind Christmas, and some question Thanksgiving’s originality.
“I like Thanksgiving, but it feels like a worse Christmas,” said Maher. “We don’t get presents, no Santa Claus, the same food, and less spirit.”
Thanksgiving’s purpose has usually been associated with bringing a family together. Whether that be spending quality time, chit-chatting and watching football games, or, the most well-known, sharing an unusually large meal together. But, students seem to think that the motives behind this celebration have shifted.
“I think the main thing about Thanksgiving now is just the food… There’s not much else to it,” said junior Paul Dubiel.
Thanksgiving enthusiasts disagree.
“Thanksgiving is about spending time with your family and being able to enjoy each other’s company. It’s about talking to those people you don’t get to see very often,” said Froylan. “It’s also a time to be thankful. Thankful for all that you have been given, and being able to share those gratitudes with people you love the most.”
