by 
Thanksgiving, a holiday rooted in gratitude and harvest celebrations, is often associated with bountiful feasts and family gatherings. While Singapore may not have a prominent set of traditions when it comes to Thanksgiving, many countries around the world celebrate unique themes of thankfulness and abundance. What adds a vibrant touch to these celebrations is the use of traditional flowers.
As Thanksgiving is around the corner, let’s embark on a journey exploring how different countries weave the beauty of blooms into their Thanksgiving traditions.
1. Mexico: The Marigold Pathways of Dia de los Muertos
In Mexico, the Day of the Dead, or Dia de los Muertos, coincides with the Thanksgiving season. Marigolds, known as “cempasúchil,” play a central role in the festivities. Families create elaborate ofrendas (altars) adorned with marigolds to honour and remember deceased loved ones. The vibrant orange hues of the marigolds are believed to guide spirits back to the world of the living.
2. Canada: Poppies for Remembrance
While Canada celebrates Thanksgiving in October, their floral traditions are deeply intertwined with Remembrance Day. The red poppy, inspired by John McCrae’s famous poem “In Flanders Fields,” is a symbol of remembrance for those who have served in the military. Poppies are often worn during the Thanksgiving season, adding a poignant touch to the celebrations.
3. Japan: Chrysanthemums and Kinr? Kansha no Hi
In Japan, Kinr? Kansha no Hi, or Labour Thanksgiving Day, is celebrated on November 23rd. Chrysanthemums, known as “kiku,” hold great significance in Japanese culture and are often used to express gratitude. People offer chrysanthemum bouquets to express their appreciation for labour and the autumn harvest, creating a visual spectacle across the country.
4. Germany: Harvest Crowns and Erntedankfest
Germany’s Erntedankfest, or Harvest Thanksgiving Festival, is marked by the creation of elaborate harvest crowns adorned with flowers, fruits, and grains. These crowns, known as “Erntekrone,” are often displayed in churches, and parades feature people wearing these symbols of the harvest bounty. Flowers like sunflowers, dahlias, and zinnias add vibrant colours to the celebrations.
5. Korea: Chrysanthemums and Chuseok
Chuseok, Korea’s harvest festival, is a time for families to come together and express gratitude for the year’s harvest. Chrysanthemums, symbolising longevity and abundance, are commonly used in floral arrangements during Chuseok. The flowers are woven into traditional Korean garlands called “nabjak,” creating a festive atmosphere.
Conclusion
As we traverse the globe, it becomes clear that the language of flowers is universal in conveying gratitude and celebrating the abundance of the harvest season. Whether through marigolds in Mexico, chrysanthemums in Japan, or poppies in Canada, the world’s Thanksgiving flower traditions are a testament to the diverse ways in which cultures express thankfulness through the beauty of blooms.
Even if you’re not celebrating Thanksgiving, you can still get your hands on beautiful hand bouquets in Singapore to ring in the holiday season. Hilton Gifts has everything you like, from classic red roses to sunflowers that can brighten someone’s day. Simply reach out to us at 6382 3771 or hilton@singnet.com.sg to enquire about our products and delivery services.