Although Thanksgiving isn’t officially celebrated in the UK, it’s one of the most iconic American holidays — a time for family, food, and reflection. Whether you’ve lived in the States, have American friends, or just love the idea of a big festive meal before Christmas, this guide is for you. Test your knowledge with our Thanksgiving quiz, explore the fascinating history and traditions behind this beloved American celebration, and find out how to celebrate Thanksgiving right here in the UK.
Quiz
Quiz :
The History of Thanksgiving
Through the centuries, Thanksgiving has come to represent much more than a harvest celebration. It reflects America’s diverse cultural heritage and the shared values of unity and appreciation. Each era has added new customs, deepening the holiday’s significance for generations. As we explore its traditions, we see how history continues to shape the way we celebrate today.
Origins and First Celebrations
The story of Thanksgiving begins in 1621, when English Pilgrims at Plymouth Colony gathered with the Wampanoag people to celebrate a successful harvest. The event lasted three days, featuring feasts of wild fowl, venison, and native crops like corn and squash.
Evolution into an American National Holiday
Thanksgiving wasn’t always an annual event. It wasn’t until 1863, during the Civil War, that President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed Thanksgiving a national holiday, thanks in large part to the efforts of writer Sarah Josepha Hale, who campaigned for decades to establish a day of national gratitude.
Over time, the holiday evolved from small community feasts into a nationwide celebration marked by parades, football games, and family traditions. Though its meanings have shifted, the spirit of thankfulness remains at its heart.
Thanksgiving Traditions
Today, Thanksgiving traditions are a blend of history, gratitude, and family. Customs continue to evolve, but they continue to have the same message, which is to take time and reflect on our blessings and give thanks.
🦃 The Thanksgiving Meal
The modern Thanksgiving table has come a long way since 1621. Today's feast typically includes turkey, stuffing, green beans, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie. Many families also add their own cultural favourites to blend heritage with history in delicious new ways.
What is your favourite Thanksgiving dish? 🥧🍗
🎈Parades and Festivities
From the iconic Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City to local community celebrations, parades have become a cherished tradition. Many parades feature massive balloons, marching bands, and dancers to kick off the national holiday. You may also find in many communities charity drives, volunteer events, and tree lightings, reminding us that Thanksgiving is as much about giving back as it is about gathering.
🏈 Football and the Turkey Trot
Football and Thanksgiving go hand in hand, a tradition that began in the late 19th century and continues with the NFL’s annual Thanksgiving Day games. Meanwhile, the Turkey Trot, a pre-feast fun run held in cities across the U.S., offers a lighthearted way to start the day. Whether watching from the couch or running through crisp fall air, these activities bring communities together in the spirit of celebration.
Now that you've brushed up on your Thanksgiving history, it's time to prep for the big day! Leave a comment down below on how you are celebrating or your favourite recipe to share with others.
Where to Celebrate Thanksgiving in the UK
If you’re in Britain and want to experience a taste of Thanksgiving, you’re in luck — plenty of restaurants, expat communities, and shops join the festivities each year.
🦃 Dine Out
Many American-style restaurants in London, Manchester, and Edinburgh offer traditional Thanksgiving menus in late November. Look out for places like The Blues Kitchen, Bodean’s BBQ, or Christopher’s in Covent Garden — known for their festive turkey dinners and pumpkin pie desserts. Here are a few of our favourites:
| Venue | Location | Thanksgiving Offering | Why Visit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sunday in Brooklyn | 10–12 James Street, Marylebone, London W1U 1EE | Dedicated Thanksgiving celebration with two sittings and a full U.S.–style menu | A New York import serving authentic American flavours in a cosy setting |
| Maxwell’s Bar & Grill | 34 King Street, Covent Garden, London WC2E 8JD | Three-course Thanksgiving menu featuring roast turkey, mac ’n’ cheese, and pumpkin pie | Classic American diner in the heart of Covent Garden — lively and family-friendly |
| The Folly (Drake & Morgan) | 41 Gracechurch Street, London EC3V 0BT | Four-course set menu (11–27 Nov) including clam chowder, roast turkey, and s’mores dessert | Chic setting and flexible dates for early celebrations |
| Big Easy | 12 Maiden Lane, Covent Garden, London WC2E 7NA | Pit-smoked turkey, cornbread, sweet potatoes, and green bean casserole | Fun, relaxed U.S. barbecue atmosphere with hearty portions |
| CUT at 45 Park Lane | 45 Park Lane, Mayfair, London W1K 1PN | Luxury Thanksgiving feast with bigeye tuna tartare starter and roast turkey main | Elegant fine-dining experience by Wolfgang Puck |
| Christopher’s | 18 Wellington Street, Covent Garden, London WC2E 7DD | Classic American grill offering roast turkey, maple-roasted yams, and pecan pie | Known for its stylish interiors and long-running Thanksgiving tradition |
| The Blues Kitchen | Camden, Shoreditch & Brixton (London) | Thanksgiving specials with smoked turkey, bourbon gravy, and live blues | Great for groups and late-night celebrations with music |
| Bodean’s BBQ | Soho, Tower Hill, Clapham, Fulham | Southern-style Thanksgiving plates: turkey, ribs, cornbread, and slaw | Affordable, casual dining with American smokehouse vibes |
| Hard Rock Café | Piccadilly Circus & Old Park Lane, London | Classic Thanksgiving meal and themed cocktails | Iconic American restaurant chain with a festive twist |
| Across the UK: Red’s True BBQ / The Ivy on the Square | Manchester & Edinburgh | Special Thanksgiving-inspired menus and U.S. cocktails | Great options for celebrating outside London |
🏠 Celebrate at Home
Supermarkets such as Waitrose and Marks & Spencer often stock American ingredients like canned pumpkin, marshmallows, and cranberry sauce around Thanksgiving and Christmas. Hosting your own dinner is a cosy and authentic way to join in — complete with football on the telly and maybe even a parade livestream.
🎉 Join an Expat Event
American expat groups and universities often host Thanksgiving gatherings open to the public. Check community boards, Facebook groups, or sites like Meetup for local events near you.
However you choose to celebrate, Thanksgiving offers a lovely opportunity to pause, share a meal, and express gratitude — a sentiment that resonates just as much on this side of the Atlantic.
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