Thanksgiving has been around for centuries, and because of its longevity families celebrate it with some of the most family traditions of all commonly celebrated holidays. From football to turkey trots to board games, almost every family has their own fun way of appreciating the holiday.

Acacia Diniz, one of WHHS’ librarians, is relatively new to the American holiday of Thanksgiving.

“I didn’t start celebrating Thanksgiving until I married into an American family,” Diniz said. 

Diniz’s family has an interesting tradition that is pretty unique to her family.

“We celebrate on Saturday because my brother-in-law works for the Lions and they always play on Thanksgiving,” Diniz said.

Diniz may be relatively new to Thanksgiving, but she enjoys the traditions and food that her family has.

“[Our food traditions are] just traditional stuff: turkey, mashed potatoes, stuffing, and sweet potatoes,” Diniz said.

Nash Royalty, ‘29, also had a traditional Thanksgiving dinner.

“We mostly just have the regular Thanksgiving foods,” Royalty said.

Most families have a lot of the same Thanksgiving foods, but the family activities before and after dinner vary.

“Before we eat, I usually play soccer or football with my family,” Royalty said.

“Every Thanksgiving, my family runs in a turkey trot, but this year we were out of town so we all ran with family,” Royalty said.

After everyone eats, things tend to get more laid back.

“After dinner, we usually watch a Charlie Brown Thanksgiving special,” Royalty said.

Even if you don’t like the Thanksgiving food or traditions, you can still appreciate the quality time and break from school it provides. 

“I’m grateful that I can spend time with my family,” Royalty said.