As an expert on the local culture and traditions of Monmouth County, New Jersey, I am excited to share with you how this community celebrates Thanksgiving. This beloved holiday has a rich history and is deeply ingrained in the spirit of gratitude and giving back that is prevalent in this county.
The History of Thanksgiving
Before we dive into the celebrations in Monmouth County, let's take a brief look at the history of Thanksgiving. This holiday has been celebrated in the United States since 1621 when the Pilgrims and Native Americans came together for a feast to give thanks for a bountiful harvest. It wasn't until 1863, during the Civil War, that President Abraham Lincoln declared Thanksgiving as a national holiday.The Spirit of Gratitude
Thanksgiving is all about expressing gratitude and giving thanks for the blessings in our lives.And this spirit of gratitude is deeply ingrained in the people of Monmouth County. As a community, we come together to celebrate and give thanks for our families, friends, and all that we have been blessed with.
The Traditional Feast
No Thanksgiving celebration is complete without a delicious feast, and Monmouth County residents take this tradition very seriously. Families gather around the table to enjoy a hearty meal that typically includes a roasted turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie. Many families also incorporate their own traditional dishes into the feast, passed down from generation to generation.Community Events
In addition to the traditional feast at home, there are also many community events that take place in Monmouth County on Thanksgiving.One of the most popular events is the annual Thanksgiving Day Parade in Red Bank. This parade features marching bands, floats, and giant balloons, and is a fun-filled event for the whole family. Another popular event is the Turkey Trot, a 5K race that takes place in Asbury Park. This event not only promotes physical activity but also raises money for local charities. It's a great way to start off the day before indulging in all the delicious food.
Volunteering and Giving Back
Thanksgiving is also a time for giving back to the community and helping those in need.In Monmouth County, there are many opportunities to volunteer at local soup kitchens, food banks, and other organizations that provide meals for the less fortunate. Many families also make it a tradition to donate food or money to these organizations during the holiday season.
Family Traditions
Each family in Monmouth County has their own unique traditions when it comes to celebrating Thanksgiving. Some families gather for a game of touch football before dinner, while others watch the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade on TV. Some families even have a tradition of going around the table and sharing what they are thankful for. One of my favorite family traditions is making homemade apple cider.We gather around the kitchen and take turns pressing apples to make fresh cider, which we then enjoy with our Thanksgiving meal. It's a small but meaningful tradition that brings us all together.
The Day After Thanksgiving
In Monmouth County, the day after Thanksgiving is known as Black Friday, a day of major sales and discounts at retail stores. Many people wake up early to take advantage of these deals and get a head start on their holiday shopping. It's also a popular day for families to go see a movie or visit local attractions like Six Flags Great Adventure.Conclusion
Celebrating Thanksgiving in Monmouth County is a special and cherished tradition.It's a time for coming together as a community, expressing gratitude, and giving back. Whether it's through a traditional feast, community events, or family traditions, the spirit of Thanksgiving is alive and well in Monmouth County.
