Oct 27, 2009 ·It wasn’t until 1863, in the midst of the Civil War, that President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed a national ThanksgivingDayto be held each November. But the holiday is not without controversy. Explore the history, cultural significance, and traditions ofThanksgiving Dayin this comprehensive guide to America's beloved holiday. 4 days ago ·Thanksgiving Dayis an annual national holiday in the United States and Canada celebrating the harvest and other blessings of the past year. Variations of the holiday are celebrated in the Caribbean and elsewhere.