America isn’t the only country that celebrates Thanksgiving. We are the only ones who call it Thanksgiving but countries around the world give thanks and rejoice the greatness of their nation by gorging on food.
Thanksgiving Around the World
August Moon Festival: China
The Chinese celebrate the August Moon festival that lands of the 15th day of the 8th lunar of their calendar. Chinese believe that the moon is the brightest and roundest on this day. Beneath the light of the moon, families will profess their love for one another.
Additionally, August Moon is known as Womens Festival where women are celebrated for their warm, compassionate nature and the gift of fertility. Chinese delicacies consist of moon-cake and watermelons are expertly cut to look like lotus flowers.
Cerelia-Rome
Rome celebrates a harvest festival known as Cerelia which honors the deity Ceres (Goddess of Corn). The festival begins on October 4th and it was custom to give fruits, grains and animal to the Goddess.
While the tradition of tribute has fallen to the wayside Cerelia is still celebrated with a feast, music, parades and sporting events.
Dia De Acoa de Graca: Brazil
Brazil has its own Thanksgiving, which is celebrated on the Thursday of November. Dubbed “Dia de Acoa de Graca”, Thanksgiving Day is celebrated to express gratitude and appreciation to God for the harvest throughout the year and all his blessing.
Brazilians celebrate with a large carnival and feast. The tradition began when an ambassador to Brazil visited the U.S. and was enamored by the event. He brought the concept back to Brazil where it has been celebrated ever since.
Chu-Sok: Korea
The celebration falls on the 15th of August, which is known as Chu-Sok begins on the 14th night of 8th lunar month of the year. It is the celebration of the harvest and lasts for three days. Koreans make a dish called “Songpyon” which consists of rice, beans sesame seeds and chestnuts.
Before digging in families will gather beneath the moonlight, in tribute to their ancestors and forefathers. The children dress in long dresses and dance in a circle.
