Thanksgiving is one of the most celebrated holidays in the United States, recognized for its focus on gratitude, family, and community. Celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November, Thanksgiving is a time when Americans come together with loved ones to enjoy a feast and reflect on the things they are thankful for. But what is the origin of Thanksgiving, and why do people celebrate it?
The History of Thanksgiving
The Thanksgiving holiday
Back to 1621, when the Pilgrims—early settlers from Europe—celebrated their first successful harvest in Plymouth, Massachusetts.
After struggling through a harsh winter and losing many of their group, the Pilgrims were able to plant and gather food with the help of the Wampanoag, a Native American tribe. To mark their successful harvest, the Pilgrims and the Wampanoag shared a meal together, which is now considered the first Thanksgiving.
Celebration
That’s a succinct and insightful summary of how Thanksgiving was established as a national holiday! Abraham Lincoln’s proclamation indeed aimed to foster a sense of unity and gratitude during a challenging period in American history.
Modern Thanksgiving Traditions
Today, Thanksgiving has evolved to include a variety of traditions, though family gatherings and feasts remain central. Here are some of the most popular Thanksgiving customs:
– The Thanksgiving Meal: The meal is often the highlight, featuring turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie. Many families enjoy preparing traditional recipes that have been passed down for generations.
– Giving Thanks: Many families take turns sharing what they are thankful for before the meal, making gratitude a significant part of the celebration.
– Football and Parades: Football games are commonly watched on Thanksgiving, and the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City, with its large balloons and colorful floats, is a staple of the holiday.
– Volunteering and Giving Back: Thanksgiving is also a time when many people volunteer at shelters or donate food to those in need, keeping the spirit of generosity alive.
Thanksgiving at Athlas Training Team
For Athlas Training Team, Thanksgiving is more than a day of celebration—it’s a chance to express gratitude for everyone who makes our community special.
As we gather with family and friends, we also take time to reflect on the amazing people who are part of our team and community.
Our Dedicated Team
We are deeply grateful for our talented team of instructors who guide our students with expertise, patience, and passion. Each instructor, from our Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu experts to those leading Muay Thai and MMA, dedicates themselves to teaching, inspiring, and building confidence in our students.
Their dedication is invaluable, and we appreciate all they do to strengthen our Athlas family.
Our Sales and Reception Team
Our front-line team at reception is often the first point of contact for students and visitors. Their welcoming attitude, efficient service, and commitment to helping everyone feel at home is something we’re truly grateful for. They ensure a smooth experience for every student and visitor, embodying the spirit of Athlas with their warmth and professionalism.
Our Amazing Students
We are especially thankful for our students, whose dedication to training and growth is the heartbeat of Athlas. We’re also inspired by the generosity of our students who support the Jiu Jitsu for Good initiative, a program dedicated to providing opportunities for young children to learn and grow through Jiu-Jitsu.
The contributions from our students help us keep this mission alive, and we couldn’t be more grateful for their kindness and commitment to making a positive impact.
Thanksgiving Message of Gratitude
This Thanksgiving, we’re reminded of the power of community and gratitude. The Athlas Training Team wouldn’t be the same without each member of our family, from instructors to reception staff, to every single student who trains with us. As we continue our journey, we carry forward the values of respect, gratitude, and commitment that make Athlas not just a training center, but a family.
Do you want to know our Thanksgiving hours? Visit our page here.
