How Much Do You Love Thanksgiving?

By BrainFall Staff - Updated: April 2, 2024

Every year as the leaves trade their green summer jackets for shades of amber and crimson, we find ourselves surrounded by the cozy warmth of the season and that comforting whiff of pumpkin spice. It signals the arrival of Thanksgiving, a time when calories magically don't count and our belts get a little more forgiving. It's the day when we gather around the table, not just to eat (although let's be honest, that's a big part), but to create memories that are as stuffed as our turkeys.

We love Thanksgiving for so many reasons — the Macy's parade with its giant balloons shadowing New York streets, the clink of glasses toasting to health and happiness, and who could ignore the inevitable nap after round three of feasting? It's all about joy, giving thanks, and the annual debate of which pie reigns supreme. Isn't there something beautiful about an entire nation taking a pause just to indulge in gratitude... and perhaps a second helping of mash?

But let's dig deeper than the gravy boat, shall we? What do we treasure most about this holiday beyond the feast? Is it the family traditions, the chance to slow down, or the start of a shopping bonanza that gets us revved up? At BrainFall, we believe there's more to this beloved holiday, and we're on a mission to peel back the layers of the Thanksgiving celebration. So, ready your forks and your hearts – it's time to find out how much you truly love Thanksgiving!

The Heart of the Feast: Thanksgiving Dinner

When we talk turkey and all the trimmings, we're diving into the tasty core of Thanksgiving, where the feast brings us as much joy as a room full of puppies.

Gobble Gobble: The Majesty of the Turkey

Let's admit it, the turkey is the Beyoncé of our Thanksgiving dinner—a showstopper that we all secretly hope has a little more meat than last year. Whether we're roasting, brining, or deep-frying, this bird is not just a meal; it's a symbol of our abundant thanks.

Perfect Turkey Checklist:

• Golden skin? Check!
• Juicy? You bet!
• Enough for seconds? Is that even a question?

Sides Show: From Stuffing to Cranberry Sauce

Oh, the glorious sides—our plates are like a canvas, and we're the artists! Stuffing that's been herbed to perfection, sweet potatoes wearing a mini marshmallow hat, and the cranberry sauce that slides out perfectly from the can (cue the round of applause).

Must-Have Sides:

• Mashed potatoes (with real butter)
• Green bean casserole
• Buttery rolls (for sopping up the gravy)

Battle of the Pies: Pumpkin vs. Pecan

This is where friendships are tested. Are you Team Pumpkin with its creamy, spiced perfection or Team Pecan with its sticky, sweet nuttiness? Let's be honest, as long as there's whipped cream, we're all winners here.

Pie Preferences:

• Pumpkin: A slice of classic Thanksgiving.
• Pecan: For those who like it sweet—and crunchy!

Accommodating Every Palate: Special Diets and Traditions

Grandma's on keto this year, Uncle Bob's gone vegan, and the kids want something gluten-free. No sweat! We're about inclusivity, keeping the tofurkey on standby and gluten-free stuffing on deck, making sure every one of our beloved guests leaves stuffed and happy.

Inclusive Eats:

• Gluten-free stuffing
• Vegan mushroom gravy
• Low-carb cauliflower mash

So, as we gather around the table with food, family, friends, and an abundance of variety, let's remember: the real heart of the feast is the laughter and stories we share, bites of turkey and pie just make it all the sweeter!

Thanksgiving Beyond the Table

Let's be real, we all know the main event of Thanksgiving sits proudly on the platter, but there's a whole lot of joy served up beyond the table that keeps us coming back for seconds. We're not just here to gobble up the turkey; we're here to throw pigskins, share belly laughs, and yes, prepare to tackle those Black Friday sales like it's a sport in its own right.

Turkey Bowls and Touchdowns: Football Frenzy

Imagine this: The smell of turkey wafts through the air, but we've already moved on to the backyard gridiron. Thanksgiving Day and football go together like mashed potatoes and gravy. Whether we're cheering on our favorite NFL teams from the couch or tossing around the old pigskin in a family game of touch football, it's a tradition steeped in as much joy and celebration as the holiday itself. We huddle up, we strategize, and no matter how many times Uncle Bob insists he was open, trust is built in those friendly battles for the win.

Gratitude and Guffaws: Family Dynamics and Politics at Play

Now, grab a slice of pumpkin pie and let's dish out the real scoop. When our family gathers and the turkey's been carved, the conversation takes center stage. We laugh, we debate, and sometimes, we skillfully navigate the minefield of politics with the finesse of a seasoned diplomat. But through it all, it's the gratitude we share for this wacky and wonderful bunch that makes it a true Thanksgiving.

Black Friday: From Turkey to Sales-turkey

Forget the peaceful slumber post-feast; we've got our game faces on for the main holiday spending event—Black Friday! Brave are those who swap their turkey leg for shopping bags and dive into the holiday season kickoff. Hard work pays off as we jostle through crowds and leap at once-a-year deals, all in the name of scoring that perfect Christmas gift. Tradition has it that if we play our cards right, we'll be wrapping up bargains before the leftovers even hit the fridge.