As Halloween ends and the spooky decorations come down, many begin wondering what comes next. Is it time for festive snowflakes and holiday lights, or do we honor the turkeys and autumn leaves first? While it’s tempting to dive straight into winter festivities, November deserves its moment–especially Thanksgiving.

For many MHS students, the weeks between Halloween and the winter holidays feel like a transitional blur. However, Thanksgiving provides a meaningful pause. Katerina Papadopoulou (’27) finds the holiday a welcome reprieve, explaining that it gives her “motivation to endure the tests [she] has all [November] long.” 

Thanksgiving not only offers something to look forward to but also serves as a bridge between cozy autumn vibes and the winter festivities. As Eva Ilieva (’26) puts it, “Thanksgiving is the perfect prelude to Christmas and the other holidays because it acts like the ‘eve’ of the holiday season.”

Though some may downplay its significance, Thanksgiving’s value lies in its emphasis on gratitude and togetherness. English teacher Maria Fairbarn, who fondly celebrates Chrismukkah, notes that while the “holiday itself is not so [important],” the shared time off for family and food is essential.

Similarly, Madame Perrin, a Christmas enthusiast, believes “the holidays begin after Thanksgiving,” emphasizing the importance of celebrating each holiday in its own time

Thanksgiving also carries historical and cultural significance. The holiday commemorates the collaboration between the Pilgrims and Indigenous People, such as the Wampanoags and Pawtuxet tribal communities, during the first successful harvest. Many dishes from the inaugural Thanksgiving meal were prepared using Native American techniques, symbolizing a blending of cultures. This history underscores the holiday’s importance beyond turkey and mashed potatoes.

Thanksgiving deserves to be celebrated fully, not overshadowed by the rush to winter festivities. It’s a time for gratitude, reflection, and connection–a holiday that bridges seasons and brings people together. So, before stringing up snowflakes and lights, let’s pause to savor the spirit and meaning of Thanksgiving.