Get ready to test your knowledge and learn some fascinating facts about everyone’s favorite feast day! This quiz covers everything from historical tidbits to mouth-watering recipes, cherished traditions, and even pop culture references. Whether you’re a Thanksgiving newbie or a seasoned pro, there’s something here for everyone. Let’s dig in!
- In what year was the first Thanksgiving celebration held?
Answer: 1621 The Pilgrims and Wampanoag Native Americans gathered for a three-day feast in Plymouth, Massachusetts. - What popular Thanksgiving side dish was invented by Campbell’s in 1955?
Answer: Green bean casserole This creamy, crunchy dish has become a holiday staple in many American households. - Which president made Thanksgiving a national holiday?
Answer: Abraham Lincoln Lincoln proclaimed it a national holiday in 1863, during the Civil War. - What’s the name of the famous Thanksgiving Day parade hosted by Macy’s?
Answer: Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade This iconic New York City event has been held annually since 1924. - In the movie “A Charlie Brown Thanksgiving,” what does Snoopy serve for the main course?
Answer: Toast The lovable beagle prepares an unconventional meal of toast, popcorn, and jelly beans. - What Native American tribe celebrated the first Thanksgiving with the Pilgrims?
Answer: Wampanoag The Wampanoag people played a crucial role in helping the Pilgrims survive in the New World. - What’s the traditional stuffing ingredient that’s toxic to cats and dogs?
Answer: Onions Keep your furry friends safe by avoiding onions in your stuffing recipe. - In Canada, when is Thanksgiving celebrated?
Answer: The second Monday in October Our northern neighbors enjoy their turkey feast a bit earlier than in the U.S. - What’s the name of the ship that brought the Pilgrims to America?
Answer: The Mayflower This famous vessel completed its historic voyage in 1620. - Which U.S. president pardoned the first turkey?
Answer: John F. Kennedy Although the official pardoning ceremony began with George H.W. Bush, Kennedy was the first to spare a turkey’s life in 1963. - What’s the most popular pie flavor for Thanksgiving?
Answer: Pumpkin pie This creamy, spiced dessert has been a Thanksgiving favorite since the 1800s. - In which country did turkeys originate?
Answer: Mexico Wild turkeys are native to the forests of Mexico and were later domesticated by Native Americans. - What’s the name of the instrument played by Native Americans that sounds like a turkey gobble?
Answer: Turkey call This traditional instrument is used in hunting and ceremonies. - Which president moved Thanksgiving to the third Thursday in November for two years?
Answer: Franklin D. Roosevelt FDR changed the date in 1939 to extend the Christmas shopping season, but it was moved back in 1941. - What’s the name of the sauce made from turkey drippings?
Answer: Gravy This savory sauce is a crucial component of many Thanksgiving meals. - In the TV show “Friends,” what’s the name of the Thanksgiving-themed episode where Monica wears a turkey on her head?
Answer: “The One with All the Thanksgivings” This hilarious episode aired in 1998 and has become a fan favorite. - What’s the traditional bread used for stuffing in the Southern United States?
Answer: Cornbread This regional variation adds a unique flavor to the classic stuffing recipe. - Which country, other than the U.S. and Canada, celebrates its own version of Thanksgiving?
Answer: Liberia This West African nation, founded by freed American slaves, celebrates Thanksgiving on the first Thursday of November. - What’s the name of the small, red fruit often served as a sauce with turkey?
Answer: Cranberries These tart berries are native to North America and have been part of Thanksgiving traditions for centuries. - In what decade did TV dinners become popular, partly due to Thanksgiving leftovers?
Answer: 1950s Swanson created the first TV dinner in 1953 when they had an excess of turkey after Thanksgiving. - What’s the name of the horn-shaped basket that symbolizes abundance during Thanksgiving?
Answer: Cornucopia Also known as the “horn of plenty,” this decorative item is often filled with fruits and vegetables. - Which NFL team traditionally plays on Thanksgiving Day every year?
Answer: Detroit Lions The Lions have played on Thanksgiving Day almost every year since 1934. - What’s the name of the spice mix commonly used in pumpkin pie?
Answer: Pumpkin pie spice This blend typically includes cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and allspice. - In the animated movie “Free Birds,” what do the time-traveling turkeys try to do?
Answer: Remove turkey from the first Thanksgiving menu This humorous film imagines turkeys attempting to change Thanksgiving history. - What’s the average number of calories consumed during a typical Thanksgiving dinner?
Answer: Around 3,000 calories That’s more than most people eat in an entire day!
Now that you’ve completed this trivia feast, why not share these questions with family and friends at your next Thanksgiving gathering? It’s a great way to spark conversation and learn more about this beloved holiday. Happy Thanksgiving!
