Whilst every day has it’s own reason to be celebrated, some days are more significant than others due to historical importance.
With holidays ranging from ‘Sandwich Day’ to ‘Square Dance Day,’ it seems like everything in this world has a specific date dedicated to it.
Many students feel that there aren’t enough hours in the day to celebrate each time. However, there are still 5 prominent days in November that deserve recognition.
Guy Fawkes Day/ Gunpowder Day (November 5th):
‘Remember, remember the fifth of November, gunpowder, treason and plot,’ is a chant you will hear in every corner of England on November 5th. In 1605, a man names Guy Fawkes attempted to kill King James and blow up the Houses of Parliament by placing barrels of gunpowder underneath it. Even though his plan was a failure, Brits use this anniversary as an excuse to light fireworks around Great Britain. Most Americans know only of the quote “Remember, remember the fifth of November” from the dystopian thriller starring Natalie Portman, V for Vendetta.
Election Day (every Tuesday after the first Monday in November):
On November 6th, all the hype about the 2012 Presidential Election came to an end. By the end of the day when the polls closed, some people were as ecstatic as ever, while others were devastated. As Hanna Refvik ’15 said, “The worst part about Election Day was having my Facebook newsfeed become contaminated with annoying statuses about their favorite candidate.” This one day has the power to dictate what will happen to the United States over the course of the next four years. Pretty crazy, right?
Sesame Street Debuts (November 10th, 1969-43rd anniversary):
Not only is Sesame Street a television phenomenon; it went on to become the most watched children’s program in history. It began with Joan Ganz Cooney’s desire to create a show that would teach preschoolers across the nation that learning is fun. Little did she know that it would end up reaching children in over 120 countries. The series features colorful creatures collectively known as the Muppets, created by legendary puppeteer Jim Henson. They star in many short, entertaining segments with real life actors. “Sesame Street taught me how to be neat, which is a real lesson which I can apply to my life nowadays,” said Ms. Schulz.
Thanksgiving (fourth Thursday of November):
The fall themed decorations that line every store window make it clear that that Thanksgiving is one of the most important days of the year, let alone November. It all started in 1621 when the pilgrims and Native Americans held a harvest celebration, and in 1863, President Lincoln declared it a national holiday. However, in the 21st century it is more focused on family and food. “Thanksgiving is the most important day because it gives me a chance to eat my troubles away,” said Mat Jacowleff ’15.
Black Friday (day after Thanksgiving):
Shopping is a favorite activity of many people, which is why Black Friday is such a November staple. In the late 19th century, Thanksgiving Day Parades became sponsored by department stores, advertising their upcoming specials. This led to the tradition stating that you can only begin shopping for Christmas and Hanukkah gifts after the Thanksgiving frenzy is over. As Leah Fuld ’16 said, “This year, I want to wake up super early and stand in the lines outside my favorite stores to get a head start on all the great Christmas deals.”
