Thanksgiving Day (Australia)
Thanksgiving in Australia is celebrated on a different date from the American Thanksgiving- the last Wednesday of November. This corresponds to November 27, 2024. While it does not assume any national significance in Australia, an external territory called Norfolk Island has its own separate holiday.
A public holiday is observed in the territory so schools and businesses usually remain closed.
History of Thanksgiving Day in Norfolk, Australia
The history of settlement and Thanksgiving celebration on Norfolk Island is both extensive and fascinating.
The island was initially a British penal colony where prisoners were sent to complete their sentences. However, they deserted the place in 1856. Although their establishments remained, no inhabitants occupied the island.
Years down the lane, the descendants of the Bounty Mutineers arrived on the land.
For those who are not aware of the story of the Bounty Mutineers, they were a bunch of men led by Fletcher Christian who rebelled against their captain and seized control of the ship.
The descendants were taken aback when they saw the establishments on the Island previously constructed by the British. Horses, cattle, and even wheels were something new that they had never seen before. However, the American concept of Thanksgiving came later.
In 1890, American whaling ships (ships used for hunting and harvesting whales) started circling the island. The inhabitants of the island also helped them in their work.
Issac Robinson, a local inhabitant of Norfolk island, became an agent, trader, and then later on an American consul. Thus, American traditions and celebrations started unfolding on the island. This is how the predominantly American festival of Thanksgiving found its way in this remote Island of Australia.
Thanksgiving Celebration in Norfolk Island
Thanksgiving Day is one of the most awaited celebrations in Norfolk Island.
Residents attend church service on this day. Churches are decorated beautifully with local produce.
Roast turkey, pumpkin pie, and wine are a must on this day. Norfolk inhabitants believe in agricultural self-sufficiency so everything they eat on the day is fresh farm produce.
Read about Thanksgiving Day in America and how it is different from the Australian Celebration.
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