George Washington suggested the date November 26 as Thanksgiving Day. Then in 1864, at the end of a long and bloody civil war, Abraham Lincoln asked all Americans to set aside the last Thursday in November as a day of thanksgiving. The President's Yearly Proclamation Thanksgiving falls on the fourth Thursday of November, a different date every year. The President must proclaim that date as the official celebration. Abroad, we are working toward a new partnership of nations.
Thanksgiving is a time for tradition and sharing.
Even if they live far away, family members gather for a reunion at the house of an older relative. All give thanks together for the good things that they have. In this spirit of sharing, civic groups and charitable organizations offer a traditional meal to those in need, particularly the homeless. On most tables throughout the United States, foods eaten at the first thanksgiving have become traditional. Now all of these symbols are drawn on holiday decorations and greeting cards.