Is Thanksgiving a Jewish Holiday?

Thanksgiving is not a Jewish holiday in the traditional sense. It has no place on the Hebrew calendar, no connection to a biblical event, and no specific rituals commanded by Jewish law. Still, its themes of thankfulness resonate deeply with Jewish tradition. 

Judaism places a strong emphasis on hakarat hatov, the recognition of good, and encourages expressions of gratitude in daily life through blessings and prayers.

Because of these shared values, nearly all rabbis agree that participating in the holiday is entirely appropriate. Some even view it as an opportunity to strengthen one’s appreciation for the gifts in our lives, much like the other moments of reflection throughout the Jewish year.

Jews and Thanksgiving: Finding the Balance

For observant Jews, the question of whether to celebrate Thanksgiving often depends on timing and kashrut. Since Thanksgiving falls on a Thursday in late November, it never conflicts with Shabbat. Jewish families who keep kosher simply adapt the menu to fit the laws of Kashrut.

Beyond that minor, Jewish Thanksgiving celebrations look much like anyone else’s: family gathered around the table, sharing stories, and reflecting on the year that has passed. 

Gratitude as a Shared Value

The connection between Judaism and Thanksgiving goes deeper than food. Gratitude sits at the heart of Jewish life. 

In fact, the word “Jew” comes from the Hebrew Yehudi, derived from hoda’ah, meaning “thankfulness.” From morning prayers that begin with Modeh Ani—literally “I give thanks”—to blessings said over food, life, and milestones, Judaism teaches constant awareness of the good around us.

In that way, Thanksgiving feels familiar rather than foreign. It gives Jewish families another moment to pause, reflect, and express gratitude—an act that is central to their faith.

A Celebration of Gratitude and Freedom

Jewish immigrants arriving in America often saw Thanksgiving as a symbol of the freedom and safety they had long sought. Many viewed it as an opportunity to express both civic pride and religious gratitude. 

Over generations, the holiday became a cherished part of Jewish-American identity.

So while Thanksgiving is not a Jewish holiday, it is one that many Jewish families have embraced wholeheartedly. It offers a space to blend American and Jewish values, celebrate freedom, and express thanks for the blessings in life.

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