In the diverse tapestry that is the United States, holiday celebrations take on many distinctive and often surprising forms. In this article, we’re highlighting 19 ways Americans celebrate holidays differently. You might just find some surprises nestled between the familiar.
Friendsgiving on Thanksgiving
Often seen as a millennial tradition, Friendsgiving is a heartwarming twist on Thanksgiving. Friends come together to share a meal, sometimes before or after the official holiday. It’s a testament to the power of friendship, holding a special place alongside family celebrations during this festive time.
Christmas Pickle Tradition
Hidden among the festive ornaments, a pickle ornament finds its sneaky spot in the Christmas tree. An old German custom now embraced by many Americans, finding the pickle on Christmas morning might bring an extra present or promise good luck for the forthcoming year.
Independence Day Morning Parades
Many small-town Americans usher in their Fourth of July celebrations with spirited morning parades. Featuring local bands, community leaders, and enthusiastic kids on decorated bicycles, these parades epitomize the local heart and patriotic spirit of the country.
White House Easter Egg Roll
Children gather on the White House lawn for a unique Easter celebration. Dating back to 1878, this event allows kids to roll Easter eggs in a friendly competition. Merging history and fun, it’s an iconic celebration exclusive to the nation’s capital.
Ugly Christmas Sweater Parties
Come December, people of all ages eagerly dig out or purchase their most garish Christmas sweaters. Hosting or attending themed parties, they flaunt these flashy garments with pride, celebrating the light-hearted, jovial side of the holiday season.
Pie Breakfasts on Thanksgiving
Pie for breakfast? Yes, please! Some American families indulge in a slice of their favorite pie on Thanksgiving morning. This sweet tradition sets a delightful tone, building anticipation for the grand dinner feast later in the day.
Martin Luther King Jr. Day Volunteering
As a tribute to Dr. King’s enduring legacy, numerous Americans dedicate this day to community service. By helping others, they embody his profound teachings about love, unity, and service, ensuring that his spirit lives on.
Galentine’s Day Celebrations
A day before Valentine’s, many women gather to honor and cherish female friendship. Popularized by the show Parks and Recreation, Galentine’s Day festivities often involve exchanging gifts, heartfelt conversations, and lots of laughter.
St. Patrick’s Day’s Corned Beef and Cabbage
This dish, though not a native of Ireland, has become a staple for many Americans on St. Patrick’s Day. With the savory aroma of corned beef and cabbage wafting through homes, this culinary tradition showcases the blending of cultures.
President’s Day Sales
Retail therapy is on the rise during President’s Day. As businesses across the nation offer hefty discounts on various products, consumers take advantage, making it one of the most anticipated shopping events after Black Friday.
Day of the Dead Celebrations Around Halloween
While Halloween festivities rage on, some Americans also embrace the “Día de los Muertos” traditions. They set up colorful altars adorned with marigolds, photographs, and special foods to honor and remember their departed loved ones.
Christmas Eve’s Feast of the Seven Fishes
On Christmas Eve, many Italian-American households delve into a seafood extravaganza. This tradition, known as the Feast of the Seven Fishes, includes delicacies like calamari, clams, and cod, symbolizing the wait for the midnight birth of Jesus.
Mother’s and Father’s Day Brunches
On these special days, countless families head to their favorite eateries or create lavish spreads at home. They cherish the company of their parents over brunch, celebrating the unwavering love and sacrifices made over the years.
Hanukkah’s Gelt Giveaway
A sweet tradition during Hanukkah involves gifting children gold-foil-wrapped chocolate coins. Representing the miracle of the Hanukkah oil, these treats, known as gelt, are both delicious and symbolic.
Columbus Day Italian Parades
In areas with prominent Italian-American communities, Columbus Day transforms into a vibrant spectacle. Parades showcasing Italian heritage, culture, and pride traverse the streets, making it a day of celebration and unity.
Leap Year Proposals
Flipping tradition, some Americans embrace the Irish custom where women propose to men on Leap Day. Occurring once every four years, this playful deviation adds zest to the world of romance.
Veterans Day School Visits
Schools across America invite veterans to share their experiences on Veterans Day. These personal accounts offer invaluable lessons, ensuring that younger generations understand and appreciate the sacrifices made for their freedom.
Hanukkah’s Dreidel Games
The spinning dreidel is synonymous with Hanukkah celebrations. In homes across America, children (and adults!) play the dreidel game, eagerly awaiting the outcome and the potential windfall of gelt.
Arbor Day Tree Planting
Arbor Day is America’s ode to Mother Nature. Across the country, communities join hands to plant trees and participate in nature conservation activities, recognizing the vital role of trees in sustaining life on Earth.
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