It seemed the second I woke up on November 1st, the zombies and skeletons had vanished, and in their place were Rudolph and Santa. People sprint from Halloween to Christmas, leaving Thanksgiving stranded in the fall foliage like a forgotten pumpkin spice latte.
Every year, as the last echoes of “trick-or-treat” fade, it seems as though the festive baton is passed directly over Thanksgiving. Thanksgiving is the middle child left to fend for themselves.
When I walked into Target in early November for discounted Halloween candy, a sea of twinkle lights and dancing Santas met me. It’s a wonder I didn’t trip on ornaments as I attempted to locate my candy corn. While shopping, I decided to search for some Thanksgiving decorations and was met with an utter lack. I saw a few turkey napkin holders and plastic pumpkins, but nothing compared to the fake Christmas tree farm a few aisles over.
So why the rush to skip over the turkey and head straight for the tinsel? The blame can mainly be on consumer-driven culture, which is taken advantage of by retailers eager to start the holiday shopping frenzy. Even I, a Thanksgiving lover, am part of the problem as I begin my Christmas list every year on November 1st.
But let’s not be too hasty in dismissing Thanksgiving. While it may not have a tree or presents, it offers the most delicious feast and a moment to express gratitude for the good things in life. But back to the important things, who wants to skip over stuffing, cranberry sauce, sweet potato casserole, and, of course, the turkey?
It may be time for a bit of rebellion against the premature Yuletide takeover. Let’s celebrate Thanksgiving in all its glory—turkey, football, and awkward family interactions included because who wants to turn down a slice of pumpkin pie? So, this year, give Thanksgiving the spotlight it deserves and resist the urge to deck the halls before the turkeys even defrosted.
