03/11/2019
Thanksgiving is not a national holiday in Ireland! Celebrated by US expats and students, it is mostly a North American event, not native to Europe. But for those of American heritage, an Irish-American twist on the holiday makes perfect sense.
And Irish Americans are thankful for where we come from and grateful for our roots, heritage and family. It turns out we even have an Irishman to thank for the invention of the holiday. Here are the best reasons and tips for adding a dash of Ireland to your Thanksgiving!
1. The real Irish Thanksgiving connection.
Most people don’t realize how important Ireland was to the first Thanksgiving – it might never have happened without a fateful shipment from Éire!
2. There’s an (Irish) word for it – Féile an Altaithe.
Although there is no native Irish word for Thanksgiving, enthusiastic Gaeilge speakers have named it “Féile an Altaithe”. The name is inspired by the Irish verb “altaigh”, meaning to give thanks, usually to God.
3. Irish blessings.
Giving thanks before and after a meal is a custom in Ireland. With our reputation for having a way with words, an Irish blessing is a meaningful way to celebrate your heritage at Thanksgiving.
4. Tasty Irish twists on classic Thanksgiving dishes.
Your guests will be grateful for an Irish twist on these Thanksgiving classics. Colcannon is a traditional Irish favorite that makes the perfect Thanksgiving side dish. A creamy mashed potato mixed with cabbage, Colcannon is both authentically Irish and holiday appropriate.
5. Put something Green on the table.
Add a touch of authentic Irish elegance to your Thanksgiving meal, with beautiful green moss cube.
