Most people assume that we have been celebrating Thanksgiving since 1621, when the Pilgrims and Indians held the first legendary 3-day meal to give thanks for a bountiful harvest. While that gathering certainly lends inspiration to our holiday, in actuality Thanksgiving was not celebrated officially until 1863, when Sarah Hale convinced Abraham Lincoln to declare a national holiday. If you love Thanksgiving, you can thank Ms. Hale for her persistence – it took her 36 years of campaigning before she was successful.

The first meal would have included wild turkeys, deer contributed by the Indians, goose, duck, lobster and eels. Of course there was the bounty of the the Pilgrim’s harvest – corn, wheat and peas; as well as fruits and goat cheese. One of today’s mainstays – potatoes – wouldn’t have been on the first holiday table, they had not yet been brought over from Europe to the New World. An additional interesting fact – forks were not yet on a traditional table, so spoons, knives and fingers were all acceptable utensils.

Thanksgiving evokes the nostalgia of many traditions, from football games to parades. But the main event on Thanksgiving is still the food. Gathering around a table with family and friends, to give thanks for many blessings, is the highlight of this holiday. In fact, this may be the most eagerly anticipated meal of the year – all other traditions simply fill the time until we can join our loved ones for the big feast.

When you celebrate, look to Zeidler’s Florist to provide the stunning autumn centerpieces and bouquets that will make your table shine. The oranges, yellow and reds of the season will glow under candlelight, bringing elegance to your table. From the rustic charm of cheerful sunflowers to the alluring beauty of asiatic lilies – we have a floral arrangement for any décor. If you are a guest this year, consider bringing a festive bouquet of fall blooms as a gift for your hostess.

Zeidler’s Evansville florists are ready to assist you in creating a floral arrangement or Thanksgiving centerpiece sure to impress. Stop in today – and Happy Thanksgiving to you and your family!