Thanksgiving is a major holiday in the United States. It is celebrated all across the country in many common ways, but communities and families also have their own traditions surrounding the holiday. While most people do participate in the usual making of turkey and gathering together, there are also many other things that take place during this time of year.  When it comes to Herrin, there are many different community and individual family traditions. 

One common tradition for many families is gathering together to watch the annual Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade. Watching the performing artists and bands is something to look forward to for the music lovers of the world. There’s also those who like to marvel at the giant balloon mascots and characters being led down the 18 block route of the parade. 

Fun fact: Up to 90 people can be required to man just one of these giant character balloons!

When it comes to Herrin High, many students and their families take Thanksgiving as an opportunity to spend quality time with extended family members that they may not get to see very often. When asked what he does for Thanksgiving, Waylon Hall said he usually “just [goes] to [his] Nana’s house.” Making and eating food are both other activities that families are able to bond over. John Braid, another Herrin High School student said that his grandma “makes some bomb potatoes.” 

Thanksgiving is a time of year for everyone to gather with those they love and show how much they appreciate one another. Whether that means seeing your family or going to a friends, it is the time to voice your gratitude and love for those around you. For many families, the act of coming together and cooking a Thanksgiving meal together is a kind of bonding that can’t be matched by many other things. So as we get closer to Thanksgiving break, make sure to tell those around you how grateful you are for them, and how much they mean to you.