Recently updated on January 23rd, 2020 at 11:06 pm
As Thanksgiving comes around this year, find a new way to celebrate the occasion, whether that’s at the heart of the festivities in the United States, or an alternative celebration further afield. From joining Manhattan’s iconic Macy’s parade to giving thanks in Brazil, we take a look at five special ways to celebrate Thanksgiving this year.
Join the Macy’s Parade in New York
Secure a front row spot on the sidelines of this spectacle for the best views of the annual Macy’s parade. From 9am until noon on the 24th November, more than 10,000 people parade through Manhattan in costume, on floats and with giant novelty balloons, while marching bands perform alongside Broadway stars. 2016 will mark the parade’s momentous 90th year.Â
Travel to Germany for the Holidays
Germany’s harvest festival takes place earlier in the autumn, but Thanksgiving coincides perfectly with the return of the country’s famous Christmas markets. Whether you choose to travel to the capital or one of the smaller German towns, there’s bound to be a market celebrating the season; take inspiration from our article on the best Christmas markets in Germany.
Be a Part of the Parade in Chicago
Along with New York, Chicago is home to some of the biggest Thanksgiving celebrations across the States. Chicago’s parade features marching bands and costumed performers, along with an impressive display of floating inflatable characters. Here, the parade runs from 8am until 11am.
Spend Thanksgiving in Brazil
Just like in the United States, Brazil throws a thanksgiving harvest celebration each fourth Thursday of November. To celebrate the harvest, families and friends gather to feast on turkey and all the trimmings, with the addition of local ingredients specific to Brazilian cuisine. This tradition was introduced to Brazil by the Brazilian Ambassador to the US who was inspired by the custom, and it went on to become one of the country’s official holidays in 1949.
Celebrate the Occasion in London
The UK may not officially recognise Thanksgiving, but due to its international community, London is the setting for many small celebrations each year. Here, restaurants and bars embrace the occasion by hosting special Thanksgiving gastronomic events, with 34 Mayfair and Bar Boulud among those putting on special seasonal feasts.Â
Just as we show our appreciation for family, friends and good fortune, why not also give thanks to the rewarding experiences travel affords. And what better way to celebrate this than by planning your next trip with Trafalgar?
Image credits: Cover photo © iStock / GMVozd. The Thanksgiving Parade in New York © Flickr / Anthony Quintano. A Christmas Market in Nuremberg, Germany © iStock / sack. A Thanksgiving turkey © iStock / Vitalina.