GLOBAL THANKSGIVING TRADITIONS

VARIOUS PLACES HAVE FALL CELEBRATION THAT ALIGN WITH THANKSGIVING; GRAPHIC BY KALLI YORK

Turkey isn’t that good. Let me back track. November has approached. Naturally, when one thinks of November, one might think of Thanksgiving. And when I think of November, I think of that turkey rearing its ugly head. So here’s a question: do we eat turkey on Thanksgiving mostly because it’s delicious, or because it’s tradition? While a turkey dinner is an American tradition, other countries might not eat turkey traditionally (nor celebrate Thanksgiving at all). Here are a few November celebrations from around the world.

Diwali, India

Sometimes October, Sometimes November

Diwali, or the Festival of Lights, is a highly celebrated holiday in India. This celebration typically falls sometime during October or November. The holiday symbolizes the victory of light over darkness—good over evil. It is deeply rooted in Hindu beliefs and traditions. Families decorate their homes with oil lamps, candles, and colorful rangoli designs. People exchange sweets and gifts, and many take part in prayers for prosperity and happiness. Diwali is a time for gathering above all; despite being rooted in Hinduism, Diwali is also celebrated by Muslims and Buddhists. Today, the Diwali festival has stretched beyond just India, taking place in cities like London and New York. 

Yi Peng Lantern Festival, Thailand 

November 5 - 6

Like Diwali, Thailand’s Lantern Festival, Yi Peng, is an event deeply rooted in religion. During the festival, a variety of lanterns are set up as a way to honor Buddha. It mostly takes place in the city of Chiang Mai, where people float small, decorated baskets down rivers to honor the water goddess. Yi Peng, however, is most famous for the release of thousands of glowing lanterns into the night sky. Today, Yi Peng is a social celebration as much as it’s a spiritual one. Streets are brought to life and beyond by things like cultural performances and food. The Yi Peng Lantern Festival is one of the most breathtaking sights of November. 

El Día de la Tradición, Argentina

November 10 

Across Argentina, people celebrate Tradition Day. The date of Tradition Day commemorates the birth of poet Jose Hernandez, whose works are considered a cornerstone of Argentine identity. One of his poems tells the story of a South American cowboy, who symbolizes independence, resilience, and the spirit of rural life. All of these traits symbolize the holiday that is Tradition Day. With folk music, dance, and horseback parades to barbecues and gaucho attire, the atmosphere of this holiday comes together. While it may not be as visually dramatic as lanterns or fireworks, Tradition Day stands out because of the heartfelt connection between the celebration and Argentine history. 

Bonfire Day, England

November 5 

If you’ve ever heard the phrase “Remember, remember the fifth of November,” then you already know a little about England’s Bonfire Night. This annual event commemorates the Gunpowder Plot of 1605, when Guy Fawkes and his fellow conspirators attempted to blow up Parliament. The failure of this plot turned into a national day of Thanksgiving. On the evening of November 5, communities gather fireworks and group around large bonfires. This echoes the gunpowder that was never ignited centuries before. Celebratory foods/beverages include: toffee apples, parkin cake, and hot drinks. While the political significance has rather faded, Bonfire Day (night) has remained a beloved November tradition.

So, did any of these November traditions sound familiar? Do you and your family celebrate any of these traditions? If not, Thanksgiving is always there!