Some Interesting Facts About The Thanksgiving Holiday

Thanksgiving is only a few days away. Millions of people when soon gather with family to enjoy lots of food, football and fun. As popular and celebrated as this holiday is, have you ever wondered if you knew everything there is to know about Thanksgiving. Here are some "Did You Know's" about Thanksgiving.

Turkeys have heart attacks! According to studies done by the Air Force it's true. When the Air Force was conducting test runs and breaking the sound barrier, fields of turkeys would drop dead! (www.homearistole.net)

The first Thanksgiving lasted three days. According to Edward Winslow the first Thanksgiving feast consisted of the following: Corn, Barley, Wild Turkey and Venison. Over 52 Pilgrims attended the first Thanksgiving which was held in 1621.

Puritans on the Mayflower used to drink bear.

It was not until 1941 that congress declared Thanksgiving as a national holiday. It was declared to be on the fourth Thursday of each November.

The president to declare the first "National Day of Thanksgiving" in 1789 was George Washington.

The 'wishbone' of the turkey is used as a good luck symbol by many people on Thanksgiving.

Turkeys can adapt to a variety of environments. Most turkeys are found in harwood forests with grassy areas.

The best time to see a turkey is on a warm clear day or during light rain.

The First American Thanksgiving Day parade was held in 1920. It was organized by Gimbel's Department Store in Philadelphia. It was not Macy's as many people believe. The NY Macy's Parade actually came a few years later in 1924 and has grown to a parade that's viewed by millions.

The wild turkey is native to northern Mexico and eastern United States.

91% of Americans eat Turkey on Thanksgiving Day.

50 percent of Americans put the stuffing inside the Turkey.

Twenty percent of cranberries eaten are eaten on Thanksgiving.

Well there are lots more facts but this is enough to get started. This year as you sit around the table test your families knowledge about these fun and interesting Thanksgiving facts!