A Brief History of Thanksgiving & How to Make the Day More Special With Five Star Napkins
Thanksgiving is one of the most cherished American traditions — a day grounded in gratitude, togetherness, and the joy of sharing a meal. Its history goes back centuries, shaped through stories of harvest celebrations, cultural exchange, and the evolving idea of what it means to come together as a community.
But while the holiday has grown and changed, one thing has stayed the same: the table is always the heart of Thanksgiving. And with a few thoughtful details — including luxury cotton napkins and elegant placemats — you can make your Thanksgiving celebration feel unforgettable.
Here’s a look at where Thanksgiving began, and how to bring its spirit to life at your table this year.
A Short History of Thanksgiving
The origins of Thanksgiving trace back to early harvest festivals held long before the arrival of European settlers. Many Native American tribes celebrated seasonal harvests with feasts, gatherings, and ceremonies offering thanks to the earth.
The 1621 harvest feast shared between the Wampanoag people and the English settlers of Plymouth has become the most recognized story in modern Thanksgiving tradition — a moment symbolizing cooperation and gratitude, though the full historical context is far more complex and deeply intertwined with Native American history.
By the late 1700s, individual states held their own Thanksgiving observances, and in 1863 President Abraham Lincoln proclaimed it a national holiday as a gesture of unity during the Civil War.
Today, Thanksgiving is less about historical reenactment and more about reflection, gratitude, and time spent with the people we love.
How to Make Your Thanksgiving Feel Truly Special
Thanksgiving isn’t just a meal — it’s a moment. And the details you choose help shape the atmosphere, the conversation, and the memories your guests carry home.
Here’s how to elevate the day with texture, warmth, and a sense of occasion.
1. Set a Table Worth Gathering Around
Start with placemats that anchor each setting and create instant elegance:
- Black Cotton Placemats — classic and sophisticated.
- Red Snowflake Cascade Placemats — festive and seasonal, perfect for bridging Thanksgiving into the holidays.
- Red Vichy Placemats — warm, rustic, and cozy with a refined check pattern.
These create a polished foundation that elevates your dishes — even before the food arrives.
2. Add Conversation and Personality With Cotton Napkins
Thanksgiving is all about connection, and nothing sparks conversation like Five Star Napkins’ luxury cotton napkins.
The Quote Collection adds humor, charm, and memorable talking points from the moment guests sit down.
Choose themes to match your crowd:
- Whiskey Quotes — perfect for bourbon lovers and after-dinner toasts.
- Champagne Quotes — ideal for celebratory toasts as you share what you’re grateful for.
- Dog Quotes — for families who treat their pets like honored guests.
Hosting multiple gatherings throughout the weekend? Grab a Cocktail Napkin Bundle so every event has its own special look.
3. Bring in Natural, Seasonal Decor
Thanksgiving décor should feel warm and effortless. Try:
- Mini pumpkins or gourds
- Rosemary sprigs tied with twine
- Autumn leaves scattered like confetti
- Candles for a soft, inviting glow
These earthy touches connect your table to the season — and pair beautifully with cotton napkins and textured placemats.
4. Make Gratitude the Centerpiece
A special Thanksgiving table goes beyond décor.
Here are simple traditions to bring meaning to the day:
- Have each guest share one thing they’re thankful for.
- Place a handwritten note at each setting.
- Ask everyone to choose their favorite napkin quote and share why.
- Start the meal with a toast using Champagne Quote Napkins.
These rituals create a sense of closeness and reflection that feels timeless.
5. Create a Moment Guests Remember
Thanksgiving is rarely about perfection — it’s about presence. Your table doesn’t need to be overly staged to feel special. Instead, focus on:
- Comfort
- Warmth
- Beautiful textures
- Details that spark joy
From elegant placemats to soft cotton napkins, Five Star Napkins helps you create a day that feels elevated yet effortless.
Make This Thanksgiving One to Remember
With thoughtful layers, meaningful traditions, and a table designed with intention, you can transform Thanksgiving from a meal into a memory.
Finish your table with the full Quote Collection and set the scene for laughter, storytelling, and gratitude.