Ah, it is that special time of year when a nation comes together to celebrate, indulge, and avoid the topics of politics and Grandpa’s drinking problem. For Americans, these customs have become innate, synonymous with feelings of family and the taste of cranberry sauce. But such celebrations are not exclusive to the West. The Korean harvest festival, Chuseok, is a similar September harvest festival centered around family and gratitude. So, whether you’re looking to reminisce the scents of pumpkin or pine needles or are simply curious about the world that defines us, keep reading to learn the ins and outs of each.
Chuseok
History
According to Asia Society, Chuseok began following the full moon harvest when Korea operated within an Agrarian society. Families gathered to appreciate the full moon and each other. Gifts were shared, and food was prepared. Women often staged a jesa ceremony, a process in which they offered freshly harvested fruits, fish, and rice to their ancestors as a
symbol of gratitude and good luck. In modern times, Chuseok is celebrated worldwide every late September. The holiday blesses our bellies through tradition and gratitude.
Staple Foods
Songpyeon is a half-moon-shaped rice cake stuffed with chestnuts, sesame seeds, and age-old tradition. It is roasted over a bed of pine needles, filling the room with the intoxicat-
ing smell of the season. Other staple foods include japchae, samseak namul, and of course, an abundance of Korean pancakes ranging from yukjeon to pajeon and beyond.
Modern Customs
In present-day celebrations, the eve before Chuseok is just as important as the day itself. Families gather to prepare the signature dish, Songpyeon. The making of the treat is a tradition in itself, emphasizing family values, a key theme across such festivities and within Korean society. Another tradition that is unique to this fall celebration is the practice of gift-giving. It is common to give and receive gifts from friends and family to show appreciation.
American Thanksgiving
History
Thanksgiving is said to be mod eled after the feast shared between English settlers and the indigenous people in 1623. The meal repre-
sented familial values and, as the namesake suggests, a time of “giving thanks.” While this Thanksgiving is celebrated and recreated today, its history is closely linked to Native American oppression and is accordingly addressed with 21st century sensitivity.
Staple Foods
The food, the star, the focus, the reason anyone showed up at all. Thanksgiving food is founded intradition but has evolved into a range of respective variations. Usually, the meal is centered around the star, an oven-roasted, perfectly seasoned turkey, paired with mashed pota-
toes, gravy, green beans, and a multitude of casseroles. Not to discount therest of the holiday staples, from sweet potatoes with marshmallows to a cousin’s famous pumpkin pie,
Thanksgiving food never disappoints.
Modern Customs
Today, Thanksgiving remains an ever-present aspect of American culture and is celebrated across the country and beyond. While each household tends to maintain its respective
traditions, families typically reunite for a multi-generational celebration centered around giving thanks and digging in. For many, the holiday is a chance to be with those you would not regularly see. Whether it’s your favorite aunt who lives out-of-state or your best friend who is back from university, Thanksgiving is an excuse to see all types of loved ones over a shared hearty meal. So, this fall, take some time to emphasize gratitude in your life. Make an effort to be more thankful—and full!
