Turkey-Free Thanksgiving

Turkey-Free Thanksgiving is observed on the fourth Thursday in November as a way to celebrate Thanksgiving while leaving turkey off the menu. Thanksgiving is associated with coming together for food, family, and gratitude, and its modern date is the fourth Thursday in November.According to History, the holiday traces its roots to the 1621 harvest feast traditionally associated with Plymouth colonists and the Wampanoag.

Going turkey-free also offers a chance to reconsider how turkey became linked with the holiday. There is no certainty that turkey was served at the 1621 feast: surviving accounts mention “wild fowl,” which may have been turkey, duck, or goose, along with venison and other foods. Turkey became increasingly popular at Thanksgiving meals during the 19th century, helped in part by Sarah Josepha Hale’s 1827 description of a New England Thanksgiving featuring roast turkey.The Almanac discusses the uncertainty surrounding the first feast’s menu, while History describes how turkey eventually became Thanksgiving’s featured dish.

How to Observe Turkey-Free Thanksgiving

Celebrate by preparing a Thanksgiving meal without turkey. Make the meal’s sides the stars, or choose another main dish, and share it with family or friends. You can also read about the uncertain menu of the 1621 feast and take time to reflect on what you are grateful for.

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