Thanksgiving, a quintessentially American holiday, was an experience I had only read about or seen in movies. This year, our family had the unique opportunity to witness and participate in this festive occasion with our American hosts in the charming town of St. James, North Carolina.
Upon our arrival, the warmth and hospitality of our hosts enveloped us like a cozy blanket on a chilly autumn evening. They introduced us to the essence of Thanksgiving - a celebration of gratitude, family, and togetherness. The highlight, undoubtedly, was the Thanksgiving feast. The table was a sight to behold, adorned with an array of dishes that were as new to us as the tradition itself. The golden-brown turkey, the centerpiece of the meal, was surrounded by a variety of sides like stuffing, cranberry sauce, sweet potatoes, mac & cheese and green bean casserole. Each bite was a delightful exploration of flavors and traditions, making us feel truly a part of this special occasion.
Our Thanksgiving adventure extended beyond the dining table. Other traditions are 1) watching Thanksgiving day parade on TV live from New York 2) Watching football on TV as there are some teams who definitely have a game on that day 3) playing the cornhole game and 4) indoor card games and all. That's the essence of thanksgiving, gathering the entire family. Our host had also invited some more families and we ended up talking for long time with them.
In the morning morning, we had visited **Oak Island Beach**, where the Atlantic's waves whispered stories of the new world. The beach, with its serene expanse of sand and calming ocean breeze, offered a tranquil escape from the holiday bustle. Due to cold, there were few people on the beach but it was great.
Another memorable experience was our visit to **Fort Fisher**. We journeyed there with another family, taking a scenic ferry ride that offered panoramic views of the water and sky converging at the horizon. The entry and exit from ferry absolutely smooth. The historical fort, a Civil War relic, stood as a silent guardian of the past, its stories etched into the landscape. The adjacent beach provided a stark contrast to the solemnity of the fort, with its lively waves and playful ambiance.
Lunch at the **Ocean Grill & Tiki Bar** on Carolina Beach was another highlight. The restaurant's unique location on the pier offered stunning ocean views, complemented by an array of delectable seafood dishes. The casual, laid-back atmosphere made it the perfect spot to relax and savor the local flavors. The most common fish is Mahi Mahi.
Our journey back, driving through **Wilmington**, was a delightful conclusion to our trip. The city's historic charm and vibrant riverfront provided a picturesque backdrop as we reflected on our Thanksgiving experience.
As a non-American family, this Thanksgiving trip was more than just a holiday; it was a cultural immersion, a chance to partake in a tradition that symbolizes gratitude and family. St. James, with its coastal beauty and historic significance, served as the perfect setting for our first Thanksgiving. The holiday's spirit of giving and sharing resonated deeply with us, transcending cultural boundaries and leaving us with cherished memories and a newfound appreciation for this unique American tradition.
Before leaving for Raleigh, capital of North Carolina, we took drive on the Oak Island sea side upto Fort Caswell. There were beautiful beach houses alongside. The Fort Caswell in allowed to roam only for people staying inside and we were given just 15 mins to drive around and no pictures.
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