Thanksgiving & eSIMs: Connecting Traditions Around The World
Thanksgiving is more than just a holiday—it's a celebration of gratitude, community, and delicious food. While most people associate Thanksgiving with the United States, similar traditions of giving thanks exist in other countries, each with its own unique flair. From iconic turkey feasts to regional harvest dishes, Thanksgiving traditions across cultures offer a rich tapestry of culinary and cultural experiences.
As you explore these destinations, staying connected is essential to share your journey with friends and family. With the convenience of eSIMs from platforms like MobiMatter, you can effortlessly stay online wherever you travel. Here’s a look at five main countries that celebrate Thanksgiving and how you can experience their unique traditions.
1. United States: The Classic Thanksgiving Celebration
Thanksgiving in the US is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November every year and its a deeply cherished holiday centered around gratitude, family and tradition. It’s a day when families and/or friends gather together for a grand feast of Roasted turkey, stuffing, cranberry sauce amongst other scrumptious delights. Americans embrace the spirit of being thankful and giving back through charity drives, volunteering and community service during this time.
On the East Coast, Thanksgiving carries a strong historical resonance, especially in New England, where the holiday's origins are tied to the Pilgrims’ 1621 feast in Plymouth. Traditional celebrations here often evoke nostalgia, with formal family gatherings and a classic spread. The West Coast, in contrast, brings a more relaxed and diverse vibe to the holiday, blending traditional dishes with multicultural flavors and hosting outdoor festivities thanks to its mild weather. Despite these regional differences, Thanksgiving unites Americans with a shared focus on gratitude, togetherness, and celebration.
Must-try Food: Roasted or deep fried turkey and sweet potato casserole with marshmallows add a modern twist to the classic meal. Definitely do not try Rachel’s trifle from that one episode of FRIENDS!
Stay Connected Tip: Use an eSIM like Europe USA 20+5 GB FREE for seamless connectivity as you attend events like the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade or explore bustling holiday markets.
2. Canada: A Harvest Thanksgiving
Canada’s Thanksgiving is celebrated earlier than in the U.S., on the second Monday of October, aligning with the end of the harvest season. While the food is similar, with turkey and stuffing at the center, Canadians add regional flair with dishes like butter tarts and Nanaimo bars. The holiday is more relaxed, often centered around family dinners and enjoying the beautiful fall foliage.
Must-try Food: Tourtière, a French-Canadian meat pie, is a hearty and flavorful addition to Thanksgiving.
Stay Connected Tip: With an eSIM like US CA UK AU NZ 10 GB, you can share stunning autumn photos and navigate the vibrant landscapes of Canada.
3. Germany: Erntedankfest (Harvest Thanksgiving Festival)
Erntedankfest, Germany’s version of Thanksgiving, is celebrated in late September or early October. Rooted in religious traditions, it features church services, parades, and harvest festivals. Goose is a common centerpiece for the meal, accompanied by regional specialties like sausages, sauerkraut, and hearty breads.
Must-try Food: Apfelstrudel (apple strudel) and pretzels are iconic treats you’ll find during the celebrations.
Stay Connected Tip: Use an eSIM like Europe Unlimited Basic 10 Days to capture the charm of rural villages or bustling city celebrations.
4. Japan: Labor Thanksgiving Day (Kinrō Kansha no Hi)
Japan’s Labor Thanksgiving Day, celebrated on November 23rd, emphasizes gratitude for workers and the harvest. While it’s not centered around a large feast like in other countries, families often enjoy seasonal dishes such as sushi, tempura, and chestnut rice. The day is also marked by festivals and cultural events.
Must-try Food: Seasonal wagashi (Japanese sweets) made with chestnuts or sweet potatoes add a festive touch.
Stay Connected Tip: Stay online with Japan 20GB to navigate Japan’s festivals or share stunning fall landscapes with friends and family.
5. South Korea: Chuseok (Harvest Moon Festival)
While not technically Thanksgiving, Chuseok is South Korea’s equivalent, celebrated in September or October. Families honor ancestors through rituals and gather to enjoy traditional foods such as songpyeon (rice cakes) and jeon (savory pancakes). It’s a time for gratitude, togetherness, and sharing the bounty of the harvest.
Must-try Food: Bulgogi (marinated beef) is a delicious and widely loved dish prepared during the festival.
Stay Connected Tip: With Asia Premium 30 GB you can share your Chuseok experiences while staying connected in South Korea’s vibrant cities or tranquil countryside. What’s great is that it works in 9 more countries around Asia, making it a great plan for digital nomads and cross-country traveling.
Traveling back home for Thanksgiving?
Thanksgiving is a celebration of gratitude and abundance, and experiencing its variations worldwide offers a unique perspective on how different cultures cherish these values. A lot of expats go back home to celebrate Thanksgiving and its a challenge to keep an extra physical SIM for that country with them and shuffle between the two everytime they go home. With the help of eSIMs from MobiMatter, you can immerse yourself fully in these traditions, capturing and sharing every moment along the way without ever having to take a physical SIM out.
Ready to explore? Pack your bags, load your eSIM, and taste the world this Thanksgiving season!