Thanksgiving, often viewed as a quintessentially American holiday, has grown far beyond its origins. Rooted in gratitude, family, and community, the spirit of Thanksgiving has gradually found its way to other parts of the world, including Latin America. Through migration, globalization, and the resonance of shared values, Thanksgiving traditions have been embraced in unique ways across several Latin American countries.
This blog explores how Thanksgiving has spread to Latin America, the factors driving its adoption, and ways that Latin American culture has infused its own flavors, literally and figuratively, into the celebration.
What is Thanksgiving?
Thanksgiving in the United States began as a harvest celebration, tracing back to the early 17th century. It officially became a national holiday in 1863, at the height of the Civil War, as a reminder to express thanks amidst tough times. Today, it’s synonymous with family gatherings, bountiful meals, and reflecting on gratitude for what we have.
The symbolic turkey dinner with mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and pumpkin pie is iconic. But Thanksgiving is much more than food—it’s about celebrating diversity, togetherness, and shared values. With its universal themes and increasing global interconnectedness, the holiday has gained traction worldwide, especially in Latin America.
How Has Thanksgiving Spread to Latin America?
Migration and Cultural Exchange
One of the most significant factors in the spread of Thanksgiving traditions to Latin America is migration. Over the decades, millions of Latin Americans have migrated to the United States, bringing with them rich cultural traditions while simultaneously adopting new ones. Thanksgiving is one of the customs that many migrants quickly embraced.
For Latin Americans living in the U.S., Thanksgiving often becomes a meaningful day to acknowledge opportunities and offer gratitude while staying close to their roots. When migrants return to their home countries, they bring along the traditions they’ve adopted, Thanksgiving included.
Family members back home may learn about the customs—hosting large meals, sharing what they’re thankful for, and even preparing turkey—and adopt the practice to stay connected with loved ones abroad.
Influence of Media and Globalization
Thanksgiving has also become more prominent in Latin America, thanks to media exposure and globalization. Hollywood movies, TV shows, and social media often highlight Thanksgiving as a celebrated event, piquing interest among those in non-American cultures.
Additionally, global marketing trends such as Black Friday have further popularized Thanksgiving. While primarily a U.S. shopping holiday, Black Friday has gained a massive foothold in many Latin American countries, indirectly tying Thanksgiving into local lifestyles. Brands often use the holiday as an opportunity to create campaigns celebrating thankfulness and community.
Adopted Traditions with a Latin Twist
While some Latin Americans celebrate Thanksgiving in ways that closely mirror the U.S., most incorporate their unique cultural elements into the holiday. Food is at the center of any celebration, and Thanksgiving meals in Latin America often include local staples alongside turkey and mashed potatoes.
Some distinctly Latin American elements of Thanksgiving include:
- Tamales: Often served alongside turkey or as a standalone dish.
- Arroz con Gandules: A Puerto Rican classic made of rice and pigeon peas, seasoned with sofrito and spices.
- Roasted Pork (Pernil): Instead of turkey, many opt for slow-roasted pork seasoned with traditional herbs.
- Plantains: Fried plantains or mashed plantains add tropical flair to the Thanksgiving table.
Even desserts get a makeover, with flan and tres leches cake often replacing pumpkin pie.
Thanksgiving Traditions in Specific Latin American Countries
Mexico
Though Thanksgiving isn’t a traditional Mexican holiday, it is increasingly celebrated by families influenced by the U.S. People may host Thanksgiving dinners featuring turkey with sides like mole, pozole, or stuffed tamales. It’s common to combine American staples with Mexican flavors, creating a fusion meal that reflects both cultures.
Mexican Thanksgiving celebrations often include late dinners—around 9 p.m.—festive music, and dancing, with family gatherings lasting well into the night.
Puerto Rico
Puerto Rican Thanksgiving is a vibrant celebration infusing local flavors and traditions. The star of the Puerto Rican table is often pavochón, a turkey prepared like lechón (roast pig), marinated with garlic, oregano, and other spices. Arroz con gandules is a staple side dish, while dancing to salsa and other lively music is a must after the meal.
Thanksgiving in Puerto Rico isn’t just about food. It’s about music, laughter, and celebrating community bonds—a reflection of both American Thanksgiving spirit and Puerto Rican cultural values.
Other Latin American Countries
While Thanksgiving isn’t celebrated uniformly across Latin America, its presence is growing. In Colombia and Venezuela, Thanksgiving is viewed through a more religious lens in some communities, with churches holding Thanksgiving Masses to reflect on gratitude and blessings.
Countries like El Salvador may not have widespread celebrations, but Salvadorans in the U.S. have embraced it and introduced elements of Thanksgiving into their culture back home.
Why Thanksgiving Appeals to Latin Americans
Thanksgiving’s spread within Latin American communities is no accident. Many elements of the holiday resonate with Latinx cultural values, including family, community, and gratitude.
For example:
- Family: Both Thanksgiving and Latin American cultures emphasize the importance of extended family gatherings. Meals become an occasion to strengthen familial bonds and show love.
- Gratitude: Latin Americans naturally connect with the essence of Thanksgiving—taking a moment to reflect on and appreciate life’s blessings.
- Food: Both traditions share a deep appreciation for food as a medium for celebration and human connection.
The universal appeal of these themes makes Thanksgiving a natural fit for cultural blending in Latin America.
A Global Holiday in the Making?
Thanksgiving may not yet rival Christmas in global recognition, but it’s undoubtedly evolving into a more internationally recognized holiday. The celebration’s themes—gratitude, family, and abundance—transcend borders, resonating with people worldwide.
The cultural blending of Thanksgiving traditions, particularly in Latin America, highlights an enriching dynamic where different customs coexist and enhance the holiday’s meaning. Whether it comes with turkey, tamales, or arroz con gandules, Thanksgiving symbolizes unity and community, demonstrating how traditions can adapt and thrive in new contexts.
FAQs
How is Thanksgiving celebrated in Latin America?
It’s celebrated in unique ways depending on the country, often incorporating local cuisines like tamales, plantains, and roasted pork alongside traditional Thanksgiving staples.
What is a major difference between how non-Hispanics and Hispanics celebrate Thanksgiving?
Non-Hispanic celebrations are often more centered on traditional American dishes and football, while Hispanic celebrations emphasize a fusion of cuisines, music, dancing, and late-night meals.
Do people from El Salvador celebrate Thanksgiving?
Salvadorans in the U.S. often celebrate Thanksgiving and bring their traditions back home. However, Thanksgiving is not widely recognized as a holiday in El Salvador.
Exploring Thanksgiving Across Cultures
Thanksgiving is no longer confined to the borders of the U.S. Its essence—gratitude, togetherness, and sharing—resonates deeply across cultures, particularly in Latin America. The integration of Latin American cuisines, music, and traditions into Thanksgiving shows how culture evolves through blending and exchange.
How do you or your family celebrate Thanksgiving? Share your traditions in the comments or on social media—we’d love to hear how you make this holiday your own!