Thanksgiving is a time of year filled with warmth, gratitude, and connection, celebrated with loved ones and delicious food. Though Thanksgiving may not be a traditional holiday in Spain where I live, gathering around the table for an epic meal with friends and family is certainly in line with the Spanish way of life! Thanksgiving, known as El Día de Acción de Gracias in Spanish, is recognized by many Spanish-speakers in the U.S. and Canada. The sentiment of giving thanks is universal, whether it’s in Spanish, English, or any other language. Feliz Día de Acción de Gracias!
As someone who doesn’t traditionally celebrate Thanksgiving, I’ve started to see the appeal of creating new, personal ways to honor gratitude. This season, why not consider making gratitude a focal point in your life? Let’s explore some ideas for new Thanksgiving traditions that bring meaning, joy, and reflection.
A New Approach to Thanksgiving for All
Even if you’re not used to celebrating Thanksgiving, why not start a fresh tradition this year? One simple way is to write a heartfelt thank-you letter to someone who has impacted your life, even if it’s just a quick note or email. You could also gather friends and family for a special meal – it doesn’t have to be a turkey feast!
Consider sharing around the table what each person is grateful for this year. These simple expressions can turn any gathering into a celebration of Thanksgiving’s true spirit, no matter where you are.
New Thanksgiving Traditions to Try:
Write a Thank-You Letter: Put pen to paper (or fingers to keys) and write a letter to someone who made a difference in your life.
Create a Gratitude Jar: Place a jar on your table where family and friends can drop notes of gratitude. Read them aloud as you gather, and let the messages of thanks inspire everyone.
Plan a “Friendsgiving”: Invite friends over for a meal where everyone brings a favorite dish. You’ll experience new flavors and, even better, make memories together.
Watch an Inspiring Movie Together: Pick a film that warms the heart and encourages reflection – perfect for settling down after a delicious meal.
Go on a Gratitude Nature Walk: Explore the outdoors and let each person share something they’re grateful for as you walk together.
Host a “Thank You” Toast: Make a special toast dedicated to people or moments you’re grateful for this year.
Donate to a Local Charity or Cause: Thanksgiving is an ideal time to give back to the community.
Try Out a New Recipe Together: Experimenting in the kitchen is a great way to bond and have fun, even if it’s a non-traditional dish.
Set Goals for the Year Ahead: Share what each person hopes to achieve in the coming year, focusing on positive outcomes.
Create a Thanksgiving Photo Album: Snap a few pictures to capture the occasion. It could become a new tradition to look back on each year!
Thanksgiving Is for Everyone – Share Your Traditions!
Whether you’ve celebrated Thanksgiving all your life or are just considering a new tradition this year, there’s a unique magic in pausing to appreciate all the good things. Let’s make gratitude a year-round practice, starting with a memorable Thanksgiving.
As a THANK YOU to all my family, friends, readers and clients,
I am starting a NEW TRADITION on my own this years.
Throughout December I’ll be sharing unique holiday cards on my Facebook profile,
and if you want access to these daily cards, download and use for FREE,
sign-up for my new WhatsApp group “Eva’s Holiday Greetings”!
What is your favorite Thanksgiving tradition? Please comment below, or share a special memory. If you’re starting a new Thanksgiving tradition this year, let me know!
About Eva Hyllestad
Eva Hyllestad is a passionate SMILE-preneur dedicated to empowering individuals to unlock their infinite potential and manifest lives filled with abundance and prosperity. As an entrepreneur since 2016, Eva combines her expertise as a Certified Law of Attraction Practitioner and a Certified Canfield Success Principles Trainer to guide people toward transforming their lives.
Eva believes that abundance and prosperity are not luxuries but birthrights, accessible to everyone who dares to dream and take aligned action. With her uplifting approach, she inspires others to embrace their power, break through limiting beliefs, and create a reality where success and joy coexist.
Through her coaching, mentorship, and personal growth resources, Eva continues to be a beacon of positivity and transformation, empowering people worldwide to achieve their highest potential.
Join Eva on this journey and discover how to turn your dreams into a vibrant, abundant reality!
Thanks for the ideas they are uplifting
You’re most welcome. Which idea stands out most for you? More importantly, is that something you’ll practice moving forward