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Thanksgiving Around the World

We're not the only nation with a Thanksgiving. 

Switzerland

     The Swiss day of Fasting and Thanksgiving dates from the 16th century, when natural disaster, epidemics and wars were the norm. Conflicts between Catholics and Protestants persisted into the mid-1800s. Several faith groups instituted days of fasting and prayer for peace, which became a country-wide observance in 1832.

Nigeria

     An annual thanksgiving festival is common among several Nigerian tribes. The central theme is thanksgiving for a bountiful harvest. It's a time for family members to reunite.

Ukraine

     It's not a national holiday, but Thanksgiving is celebrated within Christian communities. Family gatherings, church worship services and times of prayer mark the day. In September, at a church in Kyiv, members decorated the church with grains, vegetables and flowers - a display of gratitude for the strength God gave to grow and gather it. This, in spite of war.

Brazil

     A Brazilian ambassador who celebrated Thanksgiving in New York City proposed importing the holiday back home. It took 40 years, but Brazil declared a National Day of Thanksgiving as a show of cultural unity. The feast includes American dishes such as sweet potatoes and turkey. Brazilian culture has not broadly adopted the day, but it remains observed by some Brazilians.