Thanksgiving brings many traditions: stuffing faces with turkey, debating politics with relatives, and—wait—pardoning a turkey? Every year, the President of the United States “spares” a bird from becoming dinner in a ceremony that’s as bizarre as it is delightful. But why? Let’s dig into this feathered phenomenon.
A Historical Peck at the Past
The official turkey pardon tradition, as we know it, began with President George H.W. Bush in 1989. However, the roots of this quirky event go back much further.
Legend has it that in the 1860s, President Lincoln's son Tad begged his father to spare a turkey meant for Christmas dinner. Lincoln obliged, setting the stage for future presidential bird-saving antics.
By the mid-20th century, turkey farmers began gifting birds to the White House. Some of these turkeys ended up on the President’s dinner table, but others received “unofficial” pardons. Fast forward to Bush Sr., who made the pardon official, and voilà! A new tradition was born.
What Actually Happens at a Turkey Pardon?
The National Turkey Federation (yes, that’s a thing) selects two turkeys each year—a “main” bird and an alternate, in case the star gets stage fright. These lucky birds are pampered like celebrities, complete with cozy accommodations and even mock interviews to get them ready for the cameras.
At the White House ceremony, the President delivers a lighthearted speech, often filled with puns and dad jokes. Then comes the big moment: the turkey is officially pardoned, sparing it from the roasting pan. The bird is then sent to live out its days in comfort at a sanctuary or farm, presumably bragging to other animals about its brush with fame.
Why Do They Do This?
The turkey pardon is, at its core, a feel-good tradition. It’s a chance to inject some humor and lightheartedness into the Thanksgiving season while celebrating the holiday spirit of gratitude and kindness—even if it’s towards a bird.
It’s also a clever PR move. Amidst the seriousness of politics, a turkey pardon offers a rare opportunity for the President to connect with the public over something universally endearing (and a little absurd).
Turkey Pardons: Fun Facts You’ll Gobble Up
Name Game: The pardoned turkeys usually have names as ridiculous as the ceremony itself—think “Mac” and “Cheese” or “Corn” and “Cob.”
VIP Treatment: These birds don’t just get spared; they’re treated like royalty, complete with media appearances and fancy photo ops.
Not All Turkeys Live Happily Ever After: Despite their cushy post-pardon lives, many turkeys don’t live long due to the breeding practices that make them grow unnaturally large.
The Tradition’s Critics
Not everyone is a fan of the turkey pardon. Animal rights activists argue that it highlights the harsh realities of factory farming rather than addressing them. Others see it as a frivolous distraction.
Still, the tradition persists, blending humor, history, and a dash of whimsy into the holiday season.
How to Start Your Own “Turkey Pardon” Tradition
You don’t need a presidential seal to join in on the fun! Here are some ideas:
Vegetarian Thanksgiving: Pardon the turkey entirely and serve up plant-based dishes instead.
Local Animal Shelter Donation: Instead of pardoning a turkey, support local animals in need with a donation.
Kindness Challenge: Encourage family and friends to “pardon” someone they’ve had a disagreement with.
The turkey pardon might seem like a peculiar quirk of American culture, but that’s part of its charm. It reminds us that even amidst serious times, there’s always room for a little humor and heart.
And speaking of traditions, why not start your own this year by giving back? When you book a class with Lounge, you’re not only improving your English but also helping kids in Honduras. That’s a tradition worth gobbling up! Hop in a session with us today and start investing in your future!
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