Unraveling the Thanksgiving Mystery: Why Turkey Steals the Spotlight

Almost 90% of Americans partake in turkey during Thanksgiving celebrations. This tradition stems more from shifts in cultural practices during the late 1800s than from the original feast in 1621, when the Pilgrims first celebrated their harvest.

The connection between turkey and Thanksgiving solidified as various media and cookbooks began to promote the bird as a holiday staple. Over time, turkey became synonymous with the holiday, overshadowing other potential dishes that may have been served during the Pilgrims’ first feast.

In modern times, preparations involve not just roasting, but various culinary twists, reflecting regional and familial variations. Despite the evolution, the turkey remains a central symbol of Thanksgiving for many Americans.