By Okon Ekpenyong

Thanksgiving Day is a time for friends and family to come together and give thanks for all that they have. For many people, food is an integral part of the holiday, and a delicious Thanksgiving dinner is the day’s highlight. Whether it’s a traditional turkey dinner, a vegan feast, or a unique cultural dish, people worldwide love to enjoy a special meal on Thanksgiving.

For some, the classic turkey dinner is an essential part of the holiday. Slow-roasted turkey, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and gravy are staples of the Thanksgiving table. Traditional side dishes include stuffing, sweet potatoes, green beans, and carrots. For an extra special touch, many people like to make homemade bread and desserts, such as pumpkin or apple pie.

For those who don’t eat meat, a vegan Thanksgiving dinner is the perfect option. Roasted vegetables, such as squash, Brussels sprouts, and cauliflower, are a delicious and nutritious alternative to turkey. Other vegan sides include mashed potatoes, roasted potatoes, and sautéed greens—plenty of vegan-friendly desserts, such as vegan pumpkin pie or apple crisp.

For immigrants and refugees, Thanksgiving is a time to celebrate their culture and heritage. For some people, that may mean a unique dish they bring home. Whether it’s Mexican tamales, Spanish paella, or Middle Eastern kibbeh, these dishes add a unique flavor to the Thanksgiving dinner.

No matter where you live or what you eat, Thanksgiving is a time to be grateful and enjoy an exceptional meal with family and friends. Whether it’s a traditional turkey dinner, a vegan feast, or a cultural dish, everyone can find something to be thankful for this Thanksgiving Day.

“As a new American, celebrating Thanksgiving allows me to embrace my new home’s traditions while weaving in my unique cultural background, adding richness to the celebration. It’s my chance to create new traditions while cherishing the values of gratitude, togetherness, and appreciation for the opportunities in my adopted homeland,” said Omar Ali.

“Celebrating Thanksgiving as a new American or immigrant living in the US is an opportunity to honor our diverse cultural heritage and to recognize our shared values of hope, resilience, and gratitude. It is a chance to come together to recognize the contributions of all communities to the history and future of the United States,” Nigerian-born US citizen living in Houston.

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