Thanksgiving is a time to gather with loved ones, share stories, deepen connections, and savor a spread of homemade dishes. While American families celebrate with their own cherished customs, many Latino and Hispanic immigrant families have embraced Thanksgiving, blending it with their own cultural warmth. And, in true Latino style, it becomes a celebration of más—more family, more flavor, more joy.
Celebrating Thanksgiving with Latino Traditions
Family First
Thanksgiving is the perfect time to come together as an extended familia, which, for Latinos, includes both family and close friends who are like family. These bonds are the foundation of Latino culture, bringing joy, strength, and support. Whether you’re celebrating in person or virtually, take a moment to treasure these connections. And while we may be used to big hugs, laughter, and lively gatherings, remember that meaningful connections can cross any distance, holding hope for even more joyful celebrations in the years ahead.
A Feast of Flavors
If your Thanksgiving table usually centers around classic dishes like mashed potatoes, gravy, stuffing, and turkey, why not give it a little Latino flair? Here are some delicious ideas to bring a taste of Latin America to your Thanksgiving feast:
- Flavorful Turkey Stuffing: Try spicing up the traditional turkey stuffing with chorizo, bacon, beef, or pork. A Mexican-inspired stuffing will add rich flavor, while a Puerto Rican twist with Mofongo—a blend of fried and mashed plantains, pork rinds, garlic, and sweet chili peppers—offers something truly unique.
- Latino-Inspired Sides: These sides will make your table as colorful and flavorful as it is plentiful. From simple fried plantains to Arroz con Gandules (Rice with Pigeon Peas), a Puerto Rican staple, Latino sides bring festive warmth. Or try a Mexican Street Corn Casserole that captures all the flavors of elotes without the mess. Round out your table with tamales, beans, tortillas, and a variety of salsas for a feast that celebrates the best of both worlds.
Desserts to Savor
No Thanksgiving meal is complete without desserts (yes, plural). While pumpkin, apple, or pecan pies are a must, why not add a few Latin-inspired treats? Try Mexican-style Arroz con Leche (Rice Pudding) for a comforting classic, Ecuadorian Dulce de Zapallo (Caramelized Pumpkin) for a seasonal delight, or indulge in Tres Leches Cake or Classic Spanish Flan for a memorable finish to your meal.
The Heart of Thanksgiving: Giving Thanks Together
At its core, Thanksgiving is about gratitude, something deeply valued in Latino culture. Latino communities cherish close-knit families, often with multiple generations living together or nearby. This closeness reminds us of the importance of connection, whether physical or virtual. Take a moment to appreciate the good in one another, remember joyful past gatherings, and look forward to the celebrations to come.
Image sources:
Colombian natilla dessert by @Luis Echeverri Urrea from Getty Images
Family Enjoying Thanksgiving Meal by @Monkey Business Images
Latino American main course mofongo with shrimps and broth by @ALLEKO from Getty Images
