Thanksgiving, Santa on Ice, and The Nutcracker

Thanksgiving in Georgia: A Rich Historical Tradition

Georgia's Thanksgiving history reflects the broader narrative of American holiday traditions, with roots tracing back to early colonial and Native American interactions. Long before official proclamations, Native American tribes like the Creek and Cherokee celebrated harvest festivals that shared similar communal gratitude themes.

The first official Thanksgiving in Georgia likely occurred during the colonial period, with Spanish and English settlers holding intermittent thanksgiving celebrations. However, formal recognition came much later. In 1864, during the Civil War, Confederate President Jefferson Davis proclaimed a day of thanksgiving, marking an early state-level observance.

President Abraham Lincoln's 1863 national Thanksgiving proclamation significantly standardized the holiday, and Georgia gradually embraced the tradition. By the late 19th century, Georgia families were regularly gathering for elaborate harvest meals, often featuring local ingredients like pecans, sweet potatoes, and regional game.

Notable Georgian contributions to Thanksgiving include unique culinary traditions. Southern-style cornbread dressing, pecan pie, and sweet potato casserole became staples of Georgia's holiday tables, distinguishing the state's celebration from other regional practices.

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Check out their schedule here.

Upcoming Events in the Area

• (Cumming) Disney Trivia Night at Freedom Brew & Shine on November 27th at 7 pm.

• (Cumming) Sounds of the Saxophone with Jordan Thorne at the City Center on November 29th from 2:00 pm to 5:00 pm.

• (Canton) Christmas at the Mill – Visit The Mill on Etowah for a magical weekend filled with all the warmth and wonder of Christmas. November 29th and 30th from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm.

• (Alpharetta) Santa at Avalon on November 27th from 12:00 pm 7:00 pm. Recurring event, so check the schedule.

• (Alpharetta) Avalon on Ice on November 27th from 3:00 pm 10:00 pm. Recurring event, so check the schedule.

• (Duluth) The Nutcracker Presented by Northeast Atlanta Ballet opens on Friday, November 29th at 2:00 pm. Runs through Saturday, November 30th. Check schedule for times and ticket information.