Around the world, the act of coming together to share a meal, give thanks, and celebrate the abundance of the harvest transcends borders and cultures. At the heart of these celebrations lies a universal ritual: “breaking bread.” Whether it’s mooncakes under the full moon or a turkey at the center of a family table, these festivals remind us of the timeless power of shared meals to strengthen bonds, honor the earth’s bounty, and foster a spirit of gratitude. Here are some unique versions of this beautiful feast from around the world.
- Mid-Autumn Festival in China
The Mid-Autumn Festival (Moon Festival), celebrated in late September or October, honors the harvest and the full moon. Families gather to enjoy mooncakes – round pastries that symbolize unity, and share meals, expressing gratitude for abundance. The ritual of “breaking bread” is central, as families come together to enjoy food and strengthen bonds.
- Erntedankfest in Germany
In early October, Erntedankfest celebrates the harvest with church services where people bring fruits and grains as offerings. The day includes parades, feasts, and community gatherings, focusing on giving thanks for the harvest. It’s a communal “breaking bread” moment, where families and communities share meals.
- Australian Thanksgiving
While not an official public holiday, Australian Thanksgiving is celebrated informally in various parts of Australia, especially by American expats. Similar to American Thanksgiving, families gather for a festive meal, often featuring turkey, pumpkin, and seasonal produce. It’s a time for people to express thanks for the harvest and blessings, and the shared meal—symbolizing the “breaking bread” tradition—helps strengthen family and community ties.
- La Acción de Gracias in Mexico
Though not an official holiday, La Acción de Gracias is celebrated in some parts of Mexico, especially in American expat communities. Families share a Thanksgiving meal with dishes like turkey, stuffing, and Mexican specialties like tamales and mole, coming together to break bread and give thanks.
- Thanksgiving Day in Liberia
Liberians celebrate Thanksgiving Day on the first Thursday in November, with feasts featuring rice, palm butter, and goat meat. The day is marked by families coming together to share a meal, offering thanks for the harvest and blessings of the year.
While Thanksgiving is most closely associated with the United States, various countries around the world have their unique versions of this harvest celebration. The common thread across these traditions is the emphasis on gratitude and community. Through shared meals and festive gatherings, these diverse celebrations reflect the universal importance of giving thanks for the abundance of the harvest and the blessings of the year.