Thanksgiving in the United States
For the last time, President Obama will pardon a turkey. Since 2009, the president always pardoned two birds at the request of his daughters. It will be up to President-elect Donald Trump to be as gracious next year.
No politics, just talking turkey
Many Americans are hoping to take a break from the rancor and division of the presidential election that lies behind them and focus on what is really important to them: time with the family. This year, many are planning to avoid talking politics at family gatherings where things could otherwise get heated.
President Obama pardons his last turkey before Thanksgiving in White House ritual
In a tradition, dating back to 1947, the chairman of the National Turkey Federation presents a turkey to the President of the United States, who then grants a pardon to the bird. Prior to that, people can vote via Twitter between two contestants: Who will receive this year’s #WHTurkeyPardon? Team Tater or Tot?
It’s Tot
18-week old Tot made the race. While only one could be named the "National Thanksgiving Turkey," the White House said that both birds will be sent to their new home at Virginia Tech's "Gobblers Rest" where they will be cared for by veterinarians and students.
Turkey Talk Line
Turkey, stuffing, mashed potatoes, pumpkin pie and corn bread are part of a traditional Thanksgiving feast. But, what if you don’t know how to cook? No fear! There is actually a Turkey Help Line, where experienced cooks know how to solve every Thanksgiving crisis. One piece of advice is: "Worry about the side dishes because the turkey is the easiest thing.“
Opt for Vegan?
Or just entirely avoid all the fuss about getting that gobbler right: go vegan this Thanksgiving, as this PETA activist drastically suggests.
Not so traditional: Turkey Taxi
For up to $180 (169 euros) a caterer from New York offers a stress free Thanksgiving Dinner service: included is an 11-15 pound (5-6.5 kilo) free-range turkey and everything else you need to cook a decadent Thanksgiving dinner for eight to 10 people. While some may worry about how to cook the perfect meal, others face different problems...
Charity for the needy
Volunteers hand out Thanksgiving meals to homeless residents in the Skid Row district of Los Angeles.
Shopping frenzy Black Friday
The holiday shopping season kicks off with the annual Black Friday. According to a survey a record number of Americans plan to buy tech over Black Friday Week. Or way too many toys, like this family. But the pre-Christmas sales bonanza is no longer alone: Cyber Monday, created by marketing companies to persuade people to shop online, is still to come.