HOLIDAYS TODAY

HOLIDAYS TODAY

We are going to go over what Holiday's are today and what they mean.

Today, Thursday, November 28, 2024, the following holidays and observances are recognized:

• Thanksgiving Day: A federal holiday in the United States dedicated to expressing gratitude and sharing a festive meal with family and friends.
• National French Toast Day: A day celebrating the beloved breakfast dish, French toast.
• Red Planet Day: This observance commemorates the launch of Mariner 4, the first spacecraft to successfully fly by Mars, on November 28, 1964.
• National Day of Mourning: Held in Plymouth, Massachusetts, this day honors Native American history and acknowledges the impact of colonization on Indigenous peoples.​

Thanksgiving Day

Thanksgiving Day is a holiday primarily celebrated in the United States and Canada, rooted in expressing gratitude for blessings, harvests, and the goodwill of family and community. It is traditionally a day for gathering with loved ones to reflect on what one is thankful for and to share a meal that often includes turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, and other festive dishes.

The Meaning of ThanksgivingThanksgiving has evolved over centuries and holds different meanings for different people, but generally, it signifies:

1. Gratitude and Reflection
   • A time to pause and appreciate the good things in life—health, relationships, opportunities, and the abundance of food.
   • Acknowledging challenges and how they've shaped growth.
2. Historical Significance (U.S.)
   • Thanksgiving Day traces back to the early 17th century when Pilgrims and Wampanoag Native Americans shared a harvest feast in Plymouth, Massachusetts, in 1621.
   • It is often associated with themes of cooperation and giving thanks for survival and abundance, though this history is complex and has been reexamined to acknowledge the suffering of Native Americans.
3. Cultural and Family Traditions
   • It is a time for family reunions, sharing traditions, and connecting over meals and activities.
   • Many families volunteer or donate to help those in need during the holiday season.
4. Modern Celebrations
   • In the United States, it is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November, and in Canada, on the second Monday of October.
   • Activities often include parades (like the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City), watching football games, and starting the holiday shopping season.

In essence, Thanksgiving is a day to express gratitude, foster connections, and reflect on blessings, while acknowledging the importance of community and history.

National French Toast Day

National French Toast Day is celebrated annually on November 28th, and it is a day to enjoy and appreciate the delicious breakfast treat known as French Toast. French toast, also called "eggy bread" or "pain perdu," is a dish made by soaking bread in a mixture of beaten eggs, milk, and often spices like cinnamon or vanilla, then frying it until golden brown.

How to Celebrate National French Toast DayHere are some fun and creative ways to celebrate:

1. Make French Toast at Home
   • Try the classic recipe or experiment with unique twists:
     • Add toppings like fresh fruit, whipped cream, maple syrup, powdered sugar, or chocolate.
     • Use specialty breads like brioche, challah, or sourdough for an elevated experience.
     • Add flavors like pumpkin spice, nutmeg, or orange zest to the batter.
2. Try Gourmet French Toast
   • Visit a local café or brunch spot to indulge in creative variations of French toast on their menu.
3. Share the Love
   • Make a batch of French toast and share it with family, friends, or neighbors.
   • Host a brunch and turn it into a fun gathering.
4. Experiment with Recipes
   • Get adventurous with savory French toast by topping it with cheese, avocado, or a fried egg.
   • Try stuffed French toast with fillings like cream cheese and strawberries.
5. Post on Social Media
   • Share pictures of your creation with the hashtag #NationalFrenchToastDay to join the online celebration.
6. Learn the History
   • Explore the origins of French toast and how different cultures around the world have their own variations of this dish.
7. Teach Kids to Cook
   • Celebrate by teaching kids or loved ones how to make French toast. It’s an easy and rewarding recipe for budding cooks.

Today, take time to enjoy this delightful dish and embrace the opportunity to savor one of breakfast's most beloved staples!

Red Planet Day

Red Planet Day, celebrated annually on November 28th, honors the planet Mars, also known as the "Red Planet." This date commemorates the launch of NASA's Mariner 4 spacecraft in 1964, the first successful mission to fly by Mars and send back detailed images of the Martian surface. The day is an opportunity to appreciate the scientific achievements in space exploration and learn more about our neighboring planet.

How to Celebrate Red Planet DayHere are some engaging ways to celebrate and explore Mars:

1. Learn About Mars
   • Research Mars' unique characteristics, such as its red color (caused by iron oxide, or rust, on its surface), its two moons (Phobos and Deimos), and its potential for supporting life.
   • Explore documentaries, books, or websites about Mars missions, like NASA's Mars rovers (Spirit, Opportunity, Curiosity, Perseverance) and the Ingenuity helicopter.
2. Watch Mars-Related Movies or Shows
   • Enjoy films like The Martian, Mission to Mars, or documentaries about space exploration.
   • Tune in to science shows or YouTube channels discussing Mars and its mysteries.
3. Engage in Science Activities
   • Create a DIY science project or experiment related to space or Mars.
   • Build a model of the solar system or a replica of a Mars rover using craft supplies.
4. Explore Space Apps and Games
   • Use apps like NASA's Eyes on the Solar System to explore Mars virtually.
   • Play video games or simulations about space exploration, like Surviving Mars or Kerbal Space Program.
5. Stargaze
   • If the weather and conditions permit, look for Mars in the night sky. Use a telescope or a stargazing app to locate it.
6. Follow Space Missions
   • Stay updated on current Mars missions, such as NASA’s Perseverance rover or the European Space Agency’s ExoMars program.
   • Check out live feeds or updates from organizations like NASA or SpaceX.
7. Get Creative
   • Write a story or poem imagining life on Mars.
   • Draw or paint a picture of the Martian landscape or design your own Mars rover.
8. Host a Mars-Themed Party
   • Include red decorations, Mars trivia, and themed snacks (like red velvet cupcakes or "Martian" cookies).
9. Inspire Future Explorers
   • Share educational resources about Mars with kids or friends to inspire interest in science and space exploration.
10. Support Space Exploration
    • Learn about organizations working on Mars exploration and consider donating to science programs that inspire future research and missions.

By celebrating Red Planet Day, you honor humanity's curiosity and achievements in space exploration, while inspiring future endeavors to learn more about Mars and beyond.

National Day of Mourning

The National Day of Mourning is observed annually on the fourth Thursday of November, coinciding with Thanksgiving Day in the United States. Established in 1970 by the United American Indians of New England (UAINE), it serves as a day to recognize and reflect on the suffering and injustices faced by Native Americans due to colonization and the historical consequences of European settlement.

The day is a reminder of the loss of Indigenous lives, lands, and cultures and seeks to honor Native American resilience, resistance, and continued contributions to society. It also challenges the traditional narrative of Thanksgiving as a harmonious celebration between Pilgrims and Native Americans.

How to Observe the National Day of Mourning

1. Attend a Gathering
   • The primary observance takes place in Plymouth, Massachusetts, where Indigenous people and allies gather at Cole’s Hill, overlooking Plymouth Rock. The event typically includes:
     • Speeches by Native leaders.
     • Prayers, music, and moments of silence.
     • Educational programs about Native American history and current issues.
2. Learn About Native American History
   • Read books, watch documentaries, or attend lectures to deepen your understanding of Indigenous cultures and histories, especially regarding the impacts of colonization.
   • Some recommended readings include An Indigenous Peoples' History of the United States by Roxanne Dunbar-Ortiz or Braiding Sweetgrass by Robin Wall Kimmerer.
3. Support Native Communities
   • Donate to Indigenous-led organizations or support Native-owned businesses.
   • Advocate for Native rights, sovereignty, and recognition of their history and contributions.
4. Challenge the Thanksgiving Narrative
   • Use the day to reflect on the complexities of Thanksgiving and educate others about the impact of colonization on Native communities.
   • Share resources on social media to amplify Native voices.
5. Practice Cultural Sensitivity
   • Avoid cultural appropriation in Thanksgiving celebrations, such as stereotypical depictions of Native Americans.
   • Engage in respectful dialogues about the history of the holiday and its significance to Indigenous peoples.
6. Host a Day of Remembrance
   • Gather friends and family to discuss the meaning of the National Day of Mourning and to honor Indigenous cultures.
   • Share traditional Native stories, songs, or practices.
7. Advocate for Change
   • Write to policymakers about issues affecting Native American communities, such as land rights, healthcare, or education reform.
   • Support efforts to incorporate Native American history into school curricula.

The Spirit of the National Day of Mourning
​This day is not about erasing Thanksgiving but about acknowledging a broader, more inclusive history. It calls for understanding, solidarity, and action to honor Indigenous peoples' past, present, and future. By participating in meaningful ways, individuals can contribute to healing, education, and advocacy for justice and equity.

Author

Aiden Kirchner is a passionate Entrepreneur, Blogger, and proud United States Army Veteran. With a deep commitment to personal growth and professional excellence, Aiden has built a career centered around creativity, innovation, and service. Drawing from his military experience as a Food Service Specialist, he carries the values of discipline, resilience, and dedication into his entrepreneurial ventures.

As the founder of Kirchner Admin Services, Aiden combines his expertise in Graphic Design, Web Design, and Content Creation to help clients bring their visions to life. His blog serves as a platform to inspire and educate others on topics ranging from business strategies to personal development.

When he’s not building his business or sharing his insights through blogging, Aiden enjoys exploring arts and crafts, nurturing his spiritual journey, and spending quality time with his fiancée, Emily. Aiden’s mission is to empower others to chase their dreams while staying true to themselves.

Stay connected with Aiden for more inspiration and entrepreneurial tips!