WOODBURY- The holiday season is about to begin, starting with the well-loved Thanksgiving.
All around Nonnewaug campus, students are celebrating Thanksgiving in many different ways. From traveling, to fun traditions, to funky food- the NHS community definitely knows how to get in the holiday spirit.
The origin of Thanksgiving is the 1621 harvest feast; it was the celebration of the crop and accomplishments of the past year. This was originally celebrated by the English colonists and the Wampanoag people.
After eating, they played many games, like running races. Contrary to popular belief, this was a very informal event and was unorganized. These feats had an important purpose as they galvanized disparate groups while also bringing peace for nearly 50 years.
Thanksgiving wasn’t an official holiday until the mid 19th century.
In the spirit of bringing groups together, NHS students will carry on Thanksgiving’s legacy by celebrating traditions in their own unique ways.
“My favorite Thanksgiving tradition is going to Tennessee,” says sophomore Sadie Turchuk. “I love getting to visit my grandparents.”
A fairly popular tradition is traveling around the globe. Visiting family and friends is the highlight for many people during this time.
“I went to Texas two years ago,” said freshman Sophia Kallianiotis. “Last year I went to Greece.”
When traveling to new places NHS students and staff get to try new foods. The regular Thanksgiving feast typically includes mashed potatoes, gravy, and stuffing, and most importantly: the Turkey.
“Each year my family makes three turkeys,” says sophomore Ava Rickenbach. “We have a competition to see who can make the best turkey. They deep fry one, smoke another, and cook the last.”
Although the turkey is a staple for Thanksgiving dinner, appetizers are just as important.
“We make deviled eggs,” said freshman Gianna DeLorenzo. “We fry them.”
The most important part of this holiday is the main reason we celebrate each year: time spent with family and friends.
Whether that is simply going to a family member’s house or hosting it yourself, it can make a huge impact.
But some traditions aren’t that simple.
“We do the Turkey Trot,” sophomore Cierra Billings said. “It’s a 5K where you can dress up as turkeys. My family and I do it every year.”
Thanksgiving has grown to be more than just a family gathering. It has developed to be traveling and many personal traditions that are unique for every family.
