By: Mahira Rahman

As Thanksgiving break approaches, the hallways of Marriotts Ridge High School are filled with anticipation of holiday plans. Students are looking forward to a much-needed break from the busy fall semester, with many sharing their favorite ways to celebrate the season. Some plan to spend the long weekend cooking traditional family recipes and gathering around the table with loved ones, while others look forward to traveling, volunteering in their communities, or simply catching up on sleep.

Whether it’s playing backyard football or helping cook meals, Marriotts Ridge students each have their own traditions that capture the spirit of gratitude and togetherness during Thanksgiving.

“My favorite Thanksgiving tradition is going to my grandparents’ house and helping to cook our family’s famous turkey,” junior Leah Rosenburg said.

The holiday is just as much about spending time together as it is about food for many. From basting the turkey to preparing side dishes, moments like these in the kitchen create lasting memories and a sense of connection across generations. At Marriotts Ridge, Thanksgiving is not just about celebration. Many people believe that it is about laughter, shared stories, and teamwork involved in cooking that make the meal feel even more
special. The joy of contributing to a cherished tradition can also be about family and gratitude.

“I look forward to playing football in my backyard with my family before dinner because it is a good way to spend time together,” senior Zach Magee stated.

Many families bundle up against the crisp autumn air and turn their backyard into an exciting football field, tossing the ball back and forth while laughing and teasing one another. The game is a mix of friendly competition and playful chaos. With younger family members darting between older ones and parents joining in, it creates a lively atmosphere.

These moments of shared activity can be just as important as the famous Thanksgiving dinner, offering a chance to bond, celebrate teamwork, and make memories before gathering around the table.

These football games can embody the spirit of Thanksgiving by combining family, fun, and togetherness in a simple yet meaningful tradition.

“Usually, during Thanksgiving, my family drives to New York City for a family reunion with all my cousins, and we spend the day playing games and eating good food,” sophomore Ariana Rahman shared.

The long drive to family builds excitement as many students look forward to seeing relatives they don’t often get to visit. The reunion allows moments for laughter, sounds of board games and music, and smells of homemade dishes filling the table. Bringing relatives together lets Thanksgiving feel more special for many students through sharing recipes, stories, and traditions. Surrounded by the warmth of family, this celebration allows Thanksgiving to highlight connection, gratitude, and the joy of spending time with loved ones.

Many Marriotts Ridge students celebrate the holiday in many unique ways. Each tradition, no matter how big or small, carries the same message of gratitude and connection. The spirit of Thanksgiving remains the same, taking time to appreciate the people, moments, and memories that bring warmth and meaning to the season. Happy Thanksgiving!