Is Thanksgiving the Middle Child of Holidays?

As I poured my coffee this morning, I wondered how many people were packing up the pumpkin spice, making way for peppermint mocha. If decorating a Christmas tree on November 1 makes you happy, then do what brings you joy. But I am the only one who thinks of Thanksgiving like the middle child in a family—a bit overshadowed and sometimes overlooked?

To be clear, I mean no disrespect to middle children; research shows this unique position comes with many positive attributes, and some of the people I love most are middle children. It’s just that in the US, Thanksgiving is sandwiched between the fanfare of Halloween and the grandeur of Christmas, with its own special appeal often glossed over. I’m not forgetting Chanukkah and Kwanzaa, but they don’t seem to overpower Thanksgiving the way Christmas can.

Personally, Thanksgiving is my favorite holiday. First, it isn’t laden with festive consumerism, though brands like Williams Sonoma have learned to capitalize on the event. Second, it embraces a country-wide theme of appreciation and togetherness, transcending various backgrounds and religious beliefs. It’s an inclusive American celebration revolving around warmth, gratitude, family, friends, and communal bonds. In homes across America, you can expect to find some of the same comfort foods on this day, symbolizing a sense of unity.

In addition to my overall admiration of the holiday, it feels even more important in this particularly tense election year. With political divisiveness at an all-time high, Thanksgiving serves as a powerful reminder of the importance of gratitude and shared experiences. Research shows that practicing gratitude can lead to increased happiness and reduced stress, which is particularly valuable in this strained climate. Setting aside differences and showing appreciation toward one another can help foster a sense of understanding and connection.

In my humble opinion, Thanksgiving is not a holiday to be bypassed; it’s an essential part of the American experience. It serves as an annual reminder that amidst life’s challenges, there’s always much to be thankful for. Later today, I’ll be switching out my jack-o’-lanterns for turkeys, and I won’t be listening to Mariah Carey or Bing Crosby any time before November 29. So, go ahead and enjoy your pumpkin spice latte for a few more weeks; the winter festivities will be there for you to enjoy all December long. In the meantime, cheers to Thanksgiving; the middle child of holidays, quietly impactful, and undeniably significant.