Does Everyone Eat Turkey?

Story by Kayla Adames. Photo by timeanddate.com

NOV. 24, 2021: How do you spend the fourth Thursday of November? Many people spend Thanksgiving eating turkey and mashed potatoes, but that’s not always the case for everyone. On Thanksgiving my family and I rent a house near a lake and eat things like “pelinel” (pork shoulder) and “pan de jamon” (bread stuffed with things like ham, cheese, olives and raisins). My family also eats things like turkey and mac and cheese. All in all we eat a Dominican/American Thanksgiving dinner. 

I decided to ask Woodridge students and staff how they spend their turkey day as we get closer to the holiday. 

I spend my Thanksgiving with my extended family at their house. I eat things like ham, mashed potatoes, collard greens, turkey and stuffing. 

Joey Elliott , 7th grade student

I spend my Thanksgiving with friends because I have a small family. My friend who loves to cook has adopted my family for dinner and we love unique holiday dishes. For example, this year we’re having duck fat potato wedges instead of mashed potatoes and mushroom bread pudding instead of stuffing.

Ms. Greenwald,  Teacher

I will be with my family and I cook about three dishes for dinner. I eat turkey, mac and cheese, stuffing, and mashed potatoes. I also watch football with my family.

Mr. Brisco, Dedicated Aide

Normally we go to my grandmother’s house but this year we are going to rent out an Airbnb. Something unique we eat is honey ham.

Serenity Bussey , 7th grade student

Turns out, most people do eat turkey on Thanksgiving, but Woodridge students and staff also have their own unique traditions. No matter how you celebrate your holiday, I hope you eat  good food and get lots of rest. Happy Thanksgiving!

Kayla Adames is a 7th grade scholar at Friendship Woodridge International School.