On Thanksgiving Day Hispanic homes all over the U.S. will be filled with the smell of roasting turkey.  Many Latinos will observe this very American holiday but will add their colorful flavor, spice, and flair reflecting their own unique heritage.  Along with classic American favorites like stuffing, gravy, and mashed potatoes; Hispanic- Americans will add their originating country’s traditional dishes to the table.  These recipes are filled with rich flavors and authentic ingredients to honor unique family recipes passed down for generations. 

Latinos will tailor Thanksgiving to meet the duality of their culture in the U.S. and pay tribute to their Hispanic roots.  They feel a special connection to the meaning of being thankful and appreciate sharing the festivities with family and new friends alike.  According to Simmons, 76% of Latinos celebrate U.S. holidays and feel it’s natural to American culture into their own.  Depending on where they are from you could see a diverse array of foods like tostones, tamales, rice, beans, roast pork, guacamole, tortillas, milanesa, mole or tres leche cake to only name a few of the bountiful options. Hispanics’ Thanksgiving celebrations are truly something to be excited about!

Mixing old traditions with new ones is the key to expressing how grateful we are for our bountiful lives. 

The tradition of giving thanks is something that is instilled in us at a very young age and is the cornerstone of our U.S. Latino experience.  By customizing this holiday with the best of Hispanic and American culture we honor both cultural traditions by including traditional American foods and complimenting our food, décor, music, dancing, and laughter.  Nothing is lost in the American tradition we only added our colorful layers. 

In my opinion, it’s not the food that makes the holiday but a sentiment that reigns true for all nationalities; being thankful for what you have.  It’s about family, new and old traditions and celebrating your culture.  Any occasion that combines family, food, and tradition should be cherished so make sure to take advantage of the festivities and immerse yourself in the rich traditions that feel both familiar and experience brand new ones at the same time.

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