If you celebrated Thanksgiving, what would your celebration look like? How would you decorate and what would you serve? What would you say you are grateful for? Who would you invite?
María López, 28, Teacher
If I celebrated Thanksgiving, I’d want it to be cozy and familiar, blending Mexican and American traditions. I’d decorate with papel picado in warm autumn colors like orange and yellow, adding small candles and pumpkins for a welcoming feel. The table would have cempasúchil flowers for a Mexican touch. For food, I’d prepare a mix of traditional and Mexican flavors—a roasted turkey with mole sauce, mashed sweet potatoes, fresh tortillas, and esquites as a side. To drink, we’d have agua de jamaica, and for dessert, pumpkin empanadas to blend both traditions. I would be especially grateful for my family, my health, and my job. Being a teacher is challenging, but it’s also my passion, and I’m fortunate to do what I love. My guests would be my parents, siblings, and my best friend, Adriana, who’s practically family. We’d gather around the table, sharing stories and reflecting on what we’re thankful for. For me, it would be the perfect Thanksgiving—a warm, intimate gathering where we celebrate the things that truly matter, creating beautiful memories together.
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José Martínez, 45, Chef.
If I celebrated Thanksgiving, I’d make it a real fiesta. The decorations would mix earthy colors with Mexican pottery and talavera, giving it a lively, warm feel. I’d prepare a half-traditional, half-Mexican-inspired menu with roasted turkey served with chipotle cranberry sauce, roasted vegetables seasoned like esquites, and mashed potatoes with poblano peppers. For dessert, pumpkin flan would be my twist on a classic fall flavor.
I feel deeply grateful for my family, health, and the chance to work with food every day. Cooking is my passion and sharing it with others feels like a privilege. My guest list would include my family, some chef friends, and the restaurant kitchen staff, who feel like a second family. We’d gather, laugh, and enjoy the fusion meal, appreciating each other’s company. It would be a special way to honor the Thanksgiving spirit, blending both my heritage and love for food in one beautiful celebration that brings everyone closer.
Carolina Ramírez, 33, Graphic Designer.
If I celebrated Thanksgiving, I’d go for a simple, elegant style. My decorations would be minimal, with white candles, mini pumpkins, and soft, neutral linens to create a clean, calming space. For food, I’d blend traditional flavors with Mexican spices. I’d prepare turkey as enchiladas with green sauce, mashed potatoes with chile poblano, and finish with buñuelos for dessert. It’d be a mix of flavors that reflects my heritage and Thanksgiving spirit. I’d feel grateful for my creativity, my clients, and the ability to keep pursuing my passion as a designer. My celebration would be small, with my closest friends and my boyfriend, creating an intimate setting where we could relax and connect. I prefer keeping things low-key, so this would be ideal. We’d share what we’re thankful for, talk about our year, and simply enjoy the food and each other’s company. It’s those simple, meaningful connections that I value most, making the celebration feel truly special.
Ramón Salinas, 21, University Student
If I celebrated Thanksgiving, it would be casual but festive. I’d put up some papel picado and a few candles, creating a welcoming atmosphere without too much planning. I’d make Mexican-inspired Thanksgiving dishes, like turkey tamales or tacos with cranberry salsa, Mexican-style mashed potatoes with a hint of chipotle, and churros for dessert. It’d be a fun, relaxed meal that everyone could enjoy. I’d feel grateful for my education, my friends, and my family, who have supported me through everything. My guests would include my friends from school and family, both of whom play a big role in my life. It would be great to share this meal with them, talking, laughing, and creating memories together. For me, Thanksgiving would be about celebrating the people who are there for me, honoring our friendships, and enjoying a special meal that brings together flavors from both traditions.
Leticia Vargas, 62, Retired Nurse.
For Thanksgiving, I’d create a warm, family-focused celebration with fall-colored flowers, candles, and a cozy table setting. I’d prepare a mix of Mexican and Thanksgiving dishes, like turkey with mole, pumpkin empanadas, and mashed potatoes, served with champurrado for a comforting drink. The meal would feel like home, combining flavors from both traditions in a way that everyone would love. As a grandmother, I’d feel especially grateful for my health and the joy of watching my grandchildren grow. Being with family is such a gift. I’d invite my children, grandchildren, and my sisters, creating a multigenerational celebration filled with stories and laughter. We’d share what we’re thankful for and enjoy each other’s company. Thanksgiving would be a perfect moment to appreciate our family ties and savor a meal that honors both our heritage and our love for each other.
Sergio Herrera, 39, Engineer.
If I celebrated Thanksgiving, I’d keep it simple but festive, with fall leaves, candles, and traditional Mexican pottery to add warmth to the table. The meal would be a mix of American and Mexican flavors—roasted turkey with spicy gravy, mashed potatoes with a hint of chipotle, and pumpkin pie with cajeta for dessert. It would be a blend of flavors that feels special to us, honoring both traditions.
Thanksgiving would be a time to reflect, and I’d feel grateful for my work, my family, and the chance to spend time with loved ones. Family is important to me, so I’d invite them, along with my in-laws and a few close friends from work. It would be a gathering where both families come together, sharing stories, food, and laughter. Celebrating Thanksgiving this way would remind us all of what really matters, keeping us close and connected while appreciating the simple joys of life.
