As the crisp autumn air begins to settle in and the scent of pumpkin spice wafts through the streets, we know that the Thanksgiving holiday is just around the corner. Fifty years ago, Thanksgiving looked quite different than it does today, both in customs and culture. Let’s take a journey back in time to explore how Thanksgiving has evolved over the past five decades.

Thanksgiving 50 Years Ago: A Reflection of Tradition

Family Gatherings: The Cornerstone of Celebration

Fifty years ago, Thanksgiving was primarily about gathering with family. Most people traveled home to their hometowns, often from far distances, to share this special holiday with their loved ones. Large family gatherings were the norm, and meals were often prepared by multiple generations. Relatives would collectively chip in to create a feast that included not only the traditional turkey and stuffing but also a variety of homemade dishes. 

 Simpler Times: A Focus on the Meal

In the 1970s, Thanksgiving meals were less complicated. Home-cooked meals reigned supreme, with staples like roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, and homemade pies being the focal point. Pre-packaged and processed foods were not as prevalent, and many families took pride in cooking from scratch. Recipes were often passed down through generations and eagerly anticipated.

Lack of Perpetual Commercialization

While Thanksgiving has always been a time of giving thanks, the commercialization of the holiday was far less pronounced fifty years ago. Black Friday shopping didn’t begin until the day after Thanksgiving, and it was seen more as a time for family than for shopping.

Media and Entertainment

Television played a crucial role in shaping Thanksgiving traditions. Many families would gather around the TV to watch the annual Thanksgiving Day parades and special holiday episodes of popular shows. The emphasis was on family entertainment and connectivity, rather than the constant distractions of modern technology.

Thanksgiving Today: A Modern Perspective

Diverse Celebrations

Fast forward to the present day, and Thanksgiving has become a more diverse celebration, reflective of our increasingly multicultural society. Families today might celebrate with a fusion of traditional dishes from various cultures. In addition to turkey, you’ll find dishes like tamales, sushi, or curry at the table. This variety reflects the blending of cultures and traditions, making each Thanksgiving unique.

Convenience and Fast-Paced Living

Despite the lingering importance of family gatherings, modern life has made Thanksgiving more complicated. With busy schedules, more families rely on pre-cooked meals or catering services rather than spending entire days in the kitchen. While this simplifies meal preparation, it sometimes can detract from the more personal touch of home-cooked food.

Commercialization and Holiday Crossover

Thanksgiving now often coincides with a barrage of advertisements and promotions for Black Friday sales that begin earlier every year. Stores entice shoppers to hunt for deals before they’ve even finished their Thanksgiving dinner. This shift has led to a cultural debate about the meaning of Thanksgiving, with some advocating for a return to the holiday’s original purpose of gratitude and togetherness.

Technology and Social Media

In today’s digital age, technology profoundly affects how we celebrate Thanksgiving. Social media platforms allow families to share their experiences, recipes, and holiday photos instantaneously. While technology can help families connect across distances, it can also dilute the focus on gathering in person as people get distracted by their devices.

Despite the many changes over the past 50 years, the essence of Thanksgiving remains intact: a focus on gratitude, family, and togetherness. While the ways in which we celebrate have evolved—reflecting our changing society—Thanksgiving continues to be a cherished holiday that brings us together.

In revisiting what Thanksgiving meant fifty years ago and comparing it to today, it’s clear that we can still learn from the past. The heart of Thanksgiving lies in the connections we forge with each other, the meals we share, and the gratitude we express. As we gather around the table this holiday season, may we remember the simple joys of family and tradition, even amid a rapidly changing world.

The Marshall County Co-op wishes everyone a blessed and Happy Thanksgiving Holiday!  

And, if you’re looking for some unique, cool gift ideas, shop small and local and stop by the Co-op.