ES

Do Other Countries Celebrate Thanksgiving?

While it is most famously celebrated in the United States, many other countries also observe the holiday, each with its unique traditions. In this blog, we'll explore what countries celebrate Thanksgiving, how different cultures celebrate Thanksgiving, and the best places to travel during Thanksgiving outside the U.S. for a memorable experience.


Thanksgiving in the United States

Thanksgiving in the United States originated in 1621 when the Pilgrims celebrated a three-day harvest feast with Native Americans in Plymouth Colony. Over the years, it has transformed into a national day of gratitude, where families and friends come together for traditional meals, watch NFL games, and participate in festive activities. 

Popular traditions include enjoying a large feast with roasted turkey and stuffing, attending parades like the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade, and volunteering to help those in need at shelters and soup kitchens.

thanksgiving mexican

Thanksgiving in Mexico

Thanksgiving in Mexico is a relatively new holiday, officially recognized in 2019, although the tradition of giving thanks for the harvest has roots in pre-Hispanic times. Today, it is celebrated with family gatherings featuring traditional dishes like mole poblano and tamales. Many people also attend religious services to express gratitude, and some communities host harvest festivals with music, dancing, and food to celebrate the land's bounty. In resort destinations, Thanksgiving has also become a special occasion for travelers, with special menus, entertainment, and venues that add a unique touch to this day of gratitude.

Check out this article: Throwing the Ultimate Thanksgiving Party - Tips, Ideas, and Inspiration.


Best Places to Travel During Thanksgiving Outside the U.S.

One of the best ways to explore how different cultures celebrate Thanksgiving is an international getaway during Thanksgiving, and here are some of the best places to travel during Thanksgiving outside the U.S.:

  • Mexico: Here, you can enjoy a unique mix of American and Mexican traditions, along with vibrant harvest festivals, religious ceremonies, and in resort destinations, gourmet dinners with live entertainment. For the best celebration, visit Villa La Valencia Los Cabos, where we offer Thanksgiving feasts by top chefs, shows, and sunny days!
  • Canada: Experience a Canadian Thanksgiving in cities like Toronto or Vancouver, where you can enjoy autumn foliage and local festivals celebrating the harvest.
  • Germany: Visit during Erntedankfest to enjoy vibrant harvest celebrations in picturesque towns like Munich or Heidelberg, offering delicious regional foods and lively events.
  • Japan: Celebrate Labor Thanksgiving Day in Tokyo, where you can participate in autumn festivals and enjoy traditional Japanese cuisine.


Celebrate Thanksgiving at Villa La Valencia

For this year's Thanksgiving, our Executive Chef Rafael Borbollahas has prepared a culinary experience that goes far beyond the traditional feast. Starting at 5:00 pm at El Patrón Restaurant, savor an American Special Buffet featuring the most iconic dishes of the holiday: from a carving station with perfectly roasted turkey and classic sides to live prime rib, all paired with included beverages.

The evening will also feature a show that captures the universal spirit of gratitude, enhanced by the welcoming style that defines Villa La Valencia.

Book now to secure your table at our Thanksgiving dinner! Contact us at 1 877 205 7082


FAQ’s

What Makes Villa La Valencia’s Thanksgiving Unique?

  • Villa La Valencia's Thanksgiving is a unique beachfront feast with Chef Rafael Borbolla leading the way. A special buffet with live turkey and prime rib stations, and a commemorative show are a few things that make up the experience that awaits!

Is There a Thanksgiving Event in Cabo San Lucas?

  • Yes! In Cabo, we celebrate with dinners, live entertainment, and limited-time theme activities.

Why Choose Los Cabos for a Holiday Getaway?

  • Trade the cold for sunny days, Mexican dining, and activities like whale watching and sunset cruises!

Visit our blog post: Celebrating Thanksgiving in Puerto Vallarta with a Tropical Twist.

Newsletter
Subscribe to our newsletter and receive special offers and exclusive Resort news