Thanksgiving Day is a national holiday in the United States and Canada (among other countries). Historically, Thanksgiving was intended to give thanks to God for the blessing of the harvest and of the preceding year. Thanksgiving has its historical roots in religious and cultural traditions and has long been celebrated in a secular manner as well. In the U.S., Thanksgiving is celebrated on the fourth Thursday in November (Canada celebrates it on the second Monday in October)
Eating plays a large role in the celebration of Thanksgiving. On Thanksgiving Day, families and friends usually gather for a large meal including turkey. Major American cities have parades, the most famous being New York's Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade.
American football is also a major part of Thanksgiving celebrations in the United States. Professional games are traditionally played on Thanksgiving Day.
