The annual White House turkey pardon has become a beloved and light-hearted tradition that marks the beginning of the holiday season in the United States.
This year, President Joe Biden presided over the event for the final time, pardoning two turkeys named Peach and Blossom. The ceremony, filled with humor and heartfelt moments, took on added significance as Biden acknowledged the end of his presidency.
With an audience of around 2,500 people gathered on the White House lawn, the event showcased not only the whimsical nature of the tradition but also the deeper themes of gratitude, reflection, and the importance of family.
The Tradition of Turkey Pardoning: A Historical Perspective
The presidential turkey pardon has a long and storied history, dating back to the mid-20th century. While the exact origins are a matter of some debate, it is widely believed that President Harry Truman initiated the practice in 1947 when he was presented with a turkey by the National Turkey Federation.
However, it wasn’t until President George H.W. Bush’s administration in 1989 that the modern tradition of officially “pardoning” the turkeys began. Since then, every U.S. president has taken part in this light-hearted ceremony, which serves as a symbolic gesture of goodwill and marks the unofficial start of the Thanksgiving season.
This year’s ceremony held added significance as President Biden acknowledged it would be his last. He humorously referred to himself as a “lame duck” president, a term used for outgoing leaders who are serving out the remainder of their term.
Read : Biden Wanders Off and Disappears into the Amazon Rainforest After Finishing Speech at G20: Watch
Despite the playful tone, the event underscored Biden’s commitment to maintaining the traditions and rituals that form part of the presidential office.
"Keep calm and gobble on."
— CBS News (@CBSNews) November 25, 2024
President Biden pardons Peach and Blossom, two turkeys from Minnesota, in his final White House turkey pardon, based on their "commitment to being productive members of society." https://t.co/nVTVS5Y1hY pic.twitter.com/SugObWxBTB
Peach and Blossom, the stars of this year’s event, were introduced with a touch of humor. Biden shared amusing anecdotes about the turkeys, noting that Peach, who weighs 42 pounds, enjoys cross-country skiing, while Blossom, weighing 40 pounds, has a fondness for cheese curds and boxing. The turkeys’ names were a nod to Delaware’s state flower, the Peach Blossom, adding a personal touch to the proceedings.
A Moment of Reflection and Gratitude
While the turkey pardon is often seen as a light-hearted event, President Biden used the occasion to strike a more serious tone, reflecting on the deeper meaning of Thanksgiving and the significance of his presidency.
He described the opportunity to serve as president as “the honor of my life,” expressing his gratitude for the trust placed in him by the American people.
The ceremony, he noted, is not just about the turkeys but also about the values of gratitude, reflection, and family that lie at the heart of the Thanksgiving holiday.
Biden’s speech emphasized the importance of focusing on what truly matters during the holiday season. He reminded the audience that Thanksgiving is a time to come together with family and friends, to reflect on the positive things in life, and to express gratitude.
This message resonated deeply, especially at a time when many Americans are facing economic challenges and social divisions. Biden’s words served as a reminder of the importance of unity, compassion, and resilience.
After the ceremony, Biden and First Lady Jill Biden traveled to Staten Island, New York, to participate in a “Friendsgiving” event with Coast Guard members. This visit highlighted the administration’s ongoing support for the military and their families, underscoring the broader themes of service and sacrifice that are often associated with Thanksgiving.
The Bidens’ engagement with service members reinforced the idea that the holiday is about more than just feasting—it is also about giving back and recognizing those who serve.
The Cultural Significance of Thanksgiving and the Turkey Pardon
Thanksgiving holds a special place in American culture, marking a time for reflection, gratitude, and togetherness. Celebrated on the fourth Thursday in November, the holiday has deep historical roots, dating back to the early 17th century when Pilgrims and Native Americans shared a harvest feast.
Today, it is one of the most widely observed holidays in the United States, bringing families and friends together to enjoy a traditional meal that typically includes turkey, mashed potatoes, green bean casserole, and cranberry sauce.
The presidential turkey pardon has become an integral part of the Thanksgiving tradition, symbolizing a moment of levity amidst the more serious aspects of the holiday.
The event is also a reminder of the unique role that the presidency plays in American life, blending solemn duties with lighter, more symbolic gestures. The ceremony has evolved over the years, incorporating elements of humor and spectacle, but its core message remains the same: a celebration of gratitude and goodwill.
The turkeys that are pardoned each year are typically raised by farmers and selected through a process organized by the National Turkey Federation. Before the ceremony, the turkeys are often given a taste of the high life, staying in luxury accommodations and receiving VIP treatment.
This year, Peach and Blossom stayed at the Willard Intercontinental Hotel in Washington, D.C., where they were treated to a plush suite complete with plastic-lined floors and comfortable bedding. A video shared by the National Turkey Federation showed the birds exploring their luxurious surroundings, adding a touch of charm to the proceedings.
Following their pardon, Peach and Blossom will return to their home state of Minnesota, where they will serve as “agricultural ambassadors.” This role allows them to live out their days in comfort while also serving as a reminder of the importance of agriculture and farming in American life.
The turkey pardon also serves as a reminder of the broader themes of Thanksgiving. The holiday is not just about feasting but also about reflecting on the blessings of the past year and expressing gratitude for the people and experiences that enrich our lives.
For many Americans, Thanksgiving marks the beginning of the Christmas holiday season, with festive traditions such as parades and community events taking center stage. One of the most famous of these is the Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade in New York City, which celebrated its 100th year in 2023.
President Biden’s final turkey pardon was more than just a whimsical ceremony—it was a poignant reminder of the values that lie at the heart of Thanksgiving.
As he bid farewell to the tradition, Biden’s words underscored the importance of gratitude, family, and reflection. The ceremony, with its mix of humor and solemnity, encapsulated the spirit of the holiday season, reminding us all of the need to focus on what truly matters.
As Peach and Blossom head back to Minnesota to live out their days as agricultural ambassadors, they leave behind a legacy of light-heartedness and goodwill. The turkey pardon tradition, while seemingly simple, carries a deeper message about the importance of compassion, unity, and service.
As Americans gather around their tables this Thanksgiving, Biden’s final turkey pardon serves as a reminder of the enduring values that bind us together, even in times of division and uncertainty.
let’s enjoy few years on earth with peace and happiness….✍🏼🙏