Is There a Thanksgiving in London?

By Robert Palmer

Thanksgiving is a holiday celebrated in the United States of America on the fourth Thursday of November. It’s a day when people express gratitude for the blessings in their lives and traditionally, families gather together for a big feast that usually includes turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and pumpkin pie.

But what about London? Is there a Thanksgiving celebration there?

The Short Answer:
Yes, Thanksgiving is celebrated in London by Americans and expats living in the city.

History of Thanksgiving:

Thanksgiving has its roots in 1621 when the Plymouth colonists and Wampanoag Indians shared an autumn harvest feast that is acknowledged as one of the first Thanksgiving celebrations. The holiday was officially declared by President Abraham Lincoln in 1863 and has been celebrated ever since.

How is Thanksgiving Celebrated in London?

Since Thanksgiving is not an official holiday in the UK, it’s not widely celebrated by Brits. However, there are various events held across London to mark the occasion for those who wish to celebrate.

  • Thanksgiving Meal: Many restaurants offer special menus featuring classic American dishes like turkey and pumpkin pie on or around Thanksgiving Day.
  • American Community Events: The American community in London organizes events like parades, concerts, and parties to celebrate Thanksgiving with fellow Americans.
  • School Celebrations: Some American schools in London hold assemblies or classroom activities to teach students about the history of Thanksgiving and its significance.

Where to Celebrate Thanksgiving in London?

If you’re an American living or visiting London during Thanksgiving season, there are plenty of places where you can celebrate this holiday:

  • The Savoy Hotel: The Savoy Hotel offers a traditional three-course dinner with all the trimmings at their Thames Foyer restaurant.
  • The Mayfair Chippy: The Mayfair Chippy offers a Thanksgiving meal with a British twist, featuring a turkey and stuffing burger with cranberry sauce.
  • The Sportsman Casino: The Sportsman Casino in West End London offers a special Thanksgiving dinner package that includes a three-course meal and gaming vouchers.

Conclusion:

While Thanksgiving may not be as widely celebrated in London as it is in the US, there are still plenty of options for those who wish to mark the occasion. From traditional meals to community events, there’s no shortage of ways to celebrate this holiday in London. So if you’re an American living or visiting London during Thanksgiving season, rest assured that you can still enjoy this holiday abroad.