Thanksgiving is just around the corner this year on Thursday, November 28! It’s a wonderful time when many people come together to celebrate with delicious traditional dishes. Think turkey, sausages, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and, of course, seasonal treats like pumpkin pie!
The tradition of enjoying turkey on Thanksgiving goes way back to 1620 when the pilgrims set sail from England on the Mayflower and landed in Plymouth, Massachusetts. A year later, in 1621, these early settlers held what we now call the First Thanksgiving. They were so thankful for surviving a tough winter, battling illnesses, and having a bountiful harvest. This festive gathering, which took place on December 13, was a mix of a thanksgiving ceremony and a harvest celebration.
Fast forward to 1863 when President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed Thanksgiving to be celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November. This was a lovely way to give everyone a little break before the Christmas hustle and bustle.
Now, you might wonder, why turkey? Well, turkeys are native to America, super plentiful, and pretty easy to hunt. Though they’re birds, they can’t fly and prefer to stick together in flocks, making them easier targets. Plus, one turkey can feed an entire family, making it a perfect choice for a festive feast! As the years went by, turkey became the star of Thanksgiving and even made its way into Christmas celebrations.
Isn’t it interesting how the name “turkey” came about? Back in the mid-1500s, the English mistakenly called guinea fowl—birds with spotted feathers that looked a bit like turkeys—by that name. These birds made their way to Europe from North Africa through Turkey, leading to the mix-up. When Europeans encountered our American wild turkeys, they continued to call them “turkey cock.” By the time they realized the actual turkeys had nothing to do with Turkey, the name was already stuck!
Today, Thanksgiving is a fun public holiday in the U.S., often filled with festive parades. According to history.com, around 90% of Americans enjoy turkey on Thanksgiving, whether it’s roasted, baked, or deep-fried (thanks to the National Turkey Federation!). Many also take the opportunity to give back by volunteering at community events, participating in food drives, or hosting free dinners for those in need.
And let’s not forget the fun tradition of turkey pardoning! Since the mid-20th century, U.S. presidents have “pardoned” one or two turkeys each year, sparing them from becoming dinner and sending them off to live out their days on a farm. Many governors join in with similar ceremonies, adding a light-hearted touch to this cherished holiday.
At Ventisi Restaurant, perched on the 24th floor of Centara Grand at CentralWorld, you can look forward to a delicious dinner filled with international flavors. Indulge in fresh seafood, classic Italian favorites, and tasty Thai dishes, with the star of the show being a beautifully roasted turkey served with cranberry sauce and all the traditional trimmings. The buffet is priced from just 1,655++ baht per person and runs from 6:00 PM to 10:30 PM—perfect for a warm and cozy evening with your loved ones!
For a charming riverside experience, head over to Shangri-La Bangkok, where you can choose between two wonderful options. NEXT2 Café offers a fabulous international buffet featuring all the Thanksgiving classics, including herb-stuffed roasted turkey, tangy cranberry sauce, and delicious pumpkin pie, making for a fun and festive atmosphere. If you’re feeling adventurous, why not hop on the Horizon Cruise for a scenic Thanksgiving dinner along the beautiful Chao Phraya River? Prices start at 2,400 baht per adult for NEXT2 Café and 2,900 baht per adult for the cruise, so there’s something for everyone!
At Sheraton Grande Sukhumvit, the Thanksgiving buffet at Orchid Café takes tradition to the next level with a mouthwatering maple-glazed roast turkey, accompanied by unique sides like cornbread and apple sauce. Plus, you can enjoy prime rib and Yorkshire pudding, capped off with some delicious desserts! If you’d prefer to celebrate at home, they even offer takeaway gourmet options, including a whole roasted Australian turkey starting at 9,500 baht. The buffet is priced at 2,700 baht net per person, and there’s an exclusive early bird discount for vouchers purchased in advance.
Lastly, InterContinental Bangkok invites you to celebrate Thanksgiving in two splendid settings. Espresso Restaurant features a grand buffet with roasted turkey, bread stuffing, fresh seafood, and indulgent desserts like pumpkin pie and spiced pear cake. For something a bit different, Socal offers a California-inspired set menu with truffle-infused roast turkey and creative sides that are sure to impress. Prices start at 1,900++ baht at Espresso and 900++ baht at Socal.
No matter your preference—whether it’s a grand buffet, a lovely riverside dinner, or a cozy meal at home—Bangkok’s best spots have crafted Thanksgiving experiences that cater to every taste. Don’t forget to make your reservations early to snag a seat at these fantastic feasts!
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