Watch: President Trump pardons Waddle and Gobble, the Thanksgiving turkeys
The annual televised event, known as the National Thanksgiving Turkey Presentation, has become a beloved tradition in the United States, marking the official start of the Thanksgiving holiday season. This event, which dates back to the 1940s, features the President of the United States “pardoning” a live turkey, a lighthearted ceremony that symbolizes forgiveness and the spirit of Thanksgiving. The tradition has evolved over the years, with the event now broadcasted live, drawing in millions of viewers who tune in to see which turkey will be spared from the dinner table. Typically held just days before Thanksgiving, this ceremony has become a cultural touchstone, blending humor and holiday spirit with a nod to agricultural practices.
During the event, the President is presented with two turkeys, one of which is chosen for the pardon while the other is designated as the alternate. The pardoned turkey is then sent to live out its days at a farm or sanctuary, often becoming a local celebrity. This year, the event is expected to feature a turkey with an impressive backstory, perhaps one that has been raised by a local farmer or has a unique breed. The ceremony not only highlights the importance of Thanksgiving as a time for family gatherings and feasting—often centered around roast turkey—but also serves as a reminder of the agricultural roots of the holiday. With Thanksgiving dinners typically featuring a roast turkey as the centerpiece, the presentation underscores the connection between the holiday and American farming traditions.
As families across the nation prepare for their Thanksgiving feasts, the turkey pardoning ceremony serves as a whimsical prelude, inviting viewers to reflect on gratitude, tradition, and the joys of the season. This year’s event is anticipated to be particularly special, as it continues to engage audiences with its blend of humor and heartfelt moments. The National Thanksgiving Turkey Presentation not only entertains but also fosters a sense of community, as families gather around their screens to witness this quirky yet meaningful ritual that has stood the test of time.
The annual televised event dates back years and takes place ahead of the holiday, when roast turkey is typically served at dinner.
