Thanksgiving is a time when families and friends across the United States come together to celebrate gratitude, community, and togetherness. On Thursday, 91% of Americans will observe this cherished holiday, whether by sharing a meal, watching a parade, enjoying a sporting event, or simply spending quality time with loved ones. Here in Newton County, families uphold a variety of traditions that make this holiday uniquely special. This week, we took to the streets to ask residents about their favorite Thanksgiving traditions.
For Larry Gressett of Conehatta, Thanksgiving is all about family, food, and football. “My family gets together in the afternoon and visits, then has a Thanksgiving Day evening meal with turkey, dressing, cranberry sauce, the whole deal, you know? Then we normally watch the Ole Miss-Mississippi State football game if they happen to be playing on Thanksgiving,” he shared, highlighting the importance of both culinary delights and collegiate rivalries in his celebrations.
Natasha Battle of Lawrence shared a twist on the traditional Thanksgiving feast. “Our favorite tradition for Thanksgiving is getting together with family, grandparents, the grandkids, and we eat steak and potatoes on Thanksgiving Day,” she said. This unique approach showcases how families make the holiday their own, celebrating with meals that hold special meaning for them.
For Brooks Warren of Decatur, Thanksgiving is synonymous with a large family reunion steeped in tradition. “My favorite family Thanksgiving tradition is our family reunion, and we call it the Thomas Family Thanksgiving, and it’s in French Camp, Mississippi. I can’t remember what year it was, but according to the Clarion Ledger, we were the largest family reunion in the state of Mississippi,” he said, reflecting on the joy of reconnecting with loved ones on this meaningful holiday.
Charlene Evans of Newton emphasized the simple joys of Thanksgiving. “My favorite tradition is being with my family, enjoying spending time with them, and eating,” she shared, capturing the heart of what makes this holiday so special to so many people: time spent with loved ones over a shared meal.
For Karen Robertson of Philadelphia, Thanksgiving comes with a side of humor and diplomacy, thanks to the heated Ole Miss-Mississippi State football rivalry in her family. “My dad is a huge Ole Miss fan, but we have married and have kids that went to Mississippi State. So, every Thanksgiving, we go to my mom’s house and there’s a note on the door that says, ‘We will not discuss the Egg Bowl! Love, The Management, #Mae.’ And she’ll say everything that she’s thankful for that’s happened during the year,” she explained. This lighthearted rule allows the family to focus on gratitude rather than team rivalries. (Karen is pictured with her daughter, Kaylee Yates.)
Sondra Flake of Philadelphia summed up her love for the holiday in just a few words: “My favorite Thanksgiving tradition is being with family,” she said, echoing a sentiment that resonates deeply with many during this special season.
Angela Rowzee of Union shared her appreciation for the fellowship Thanksgiving brings. “What I love about Thanksgiving is being with family, all the great food, and fellowshipping,” she said, highlighting the warmth and connection that make the day so memorable.
Thanksgiving in Newton County is a rich meltingpot of traditions, each as unique as the families who celebrate them. Whether it’s a meal of turkey and dressing, steak and potatoes, or simply enjoying time together, the heart of the holiday lies in gratitude and togetherness. This Thanksgiving, as families across the county gather around their tables, these cherished traditions will continue to remind us of what truly matters most.
